Beloved Actor Jonathan Joss Dies at 59 in Tragic San Antonio Shooting After Lifelong Career and Acts of Bravery

The life and legacy of a talented performer silenced by violence as fans and loved ones mourn the loss of a groundbreaking artist

Remembering a Distinctive Voice in Animation

Jonathan Joss, best known for his unforgettable portrayal of John Redcorn on the long-running animated series King of the Hill, has died at the age of 59. The actor was tragically shot and killed on Sunday evening in San Antonio, Texas, in an incident that has shaken both the entertainment community and the LGBTQ+ advocacy space.

Joss’s distinct voice and commanding presence made John Redcorn a standout character in American animation for over a decade. His contributions extended beyond television, touching audiences through powerful performances in film and recurring television roles. His death leaves a profound void in the hearts of fans, friends, and loved ones.

The Shooting That Ended a Storied Career

The tragic incident occurred around 7 p.m. on Sunday, when San Antonio police responded to a report of a shooting. Officers arrived to find Joss near the roadway, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite immediate life-saving efforts by first responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to authorities, the shooter fled the area in a vehicle but was apprehended just a block away and taken into custody on charges of murder. The investigation remains ongoing, and further details are expected as law enforcement continues to examine the case.

Allegations of Homophobic Harassment Emerge

In a heartfelt and emotional statement shared on Joss’s official Facebook page, his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, shared painful details about what he claims was a long period of targeted harassment against the couple.

De Gonzales recounted that the two were checking their mail at the site of their former home, which had been destroyed in a fire following years of reported threats from hostile individuals in the area. According to his account, the couple faced persistent and aggressive harassment—much of it openly homophobic.

During their visit, the two were devastated to find the remains of one of their beloved dogs on the property. Overwhelmed by grief, they began to cry when a man approached them, allegedly yelling hate-filled slurs. De Gonzales said the man then raised a gun and opened fire. Jonathan, acting instinctively, pushed his husband out of harm’s way—sacrificing his own life in the process.

“Jonathan and I had no weapons. We were not threatening anyone. We were grieving. We were standing side by side,” de Gonzales wrote. “When the man fired, Jonathan pushed me out of the way. He saved my life.”

A Legacy of Representation and Impact

Jonathan Joss was widely celebrated not only for his talent, but also for his cultural impact. From Season 2 through Season 13 of King of the Hill, he gave voice to John Redcorn, a Native American character who resonated with viewers through his blend of dry humor and spiritual depth. Joss had recently completed voice recordings for the show's upcoming revival, which premieres this August, and will appear posthumously in Season 14, Episode 2.

He first stepped into the role after the death of original actor Victor Aaron in 1996, and carried it with grace and gravitas for more than a decade. Show creators and producers expressed their sorrow and appreciation in a joint statement, noting that his voice will be deeply missed.

“Jonathan Joss brought King of the Hill’s John Redcorn to life for over a dozen seasons, including in the upcoming revival,” they shared. “His voice will be missed at King of the Hill, and we extend our deepest condolences to Jonathan’s friends and family.”

A Life of Talent Beyond the Microphone

Joss's talents extended far beyond the world of animation. He made memorable appearances on popular television series such as Parks and Recreation, where he played Chief Ken Hotate, and had roles in acclaimed shows and films including Tulsa King, Ray Donovan, True Grit, and The Magnificent Seven.

He remained active in the public eye, appearing just days before his death at the ATX Television Festival in Austin during a panel for the King of the Hill revival. During the event, he took the microphone to honor fellow cast member Johnny Hardwick and shared personal news about losing his home to a fire, a moment that now feels tragically poignant.

An Unforgettable Presence Gone Too Soon

Jonathan Joss was more than a voice actor—he was a trailblazer, an advocate, and a man who stood firmly in his truth. His untimely death is a heartbreaking loss for both the entertainment world and those fighting for justice and equality.

As fans prepare to hear his voice one final time in the upcoming season of King of the Hill, many will reflect not only on the characters he brought to life but also on the courageous life he led offscreen. His artistry, his bravery, and his love will not be forgotten.