Beloved Voice Actor Jonathan Joss Killed in Texas Shooting at Age 59
Jonathan Joss, the celebrated voice actor known for bringing the character John Redcorn to life in the long-running animated series King of the Hill, was tragically killed in a shooting incident in San Antonio, Texas, on the evening of June 1, 2025.
Incident Details: What Happened in San Antonio?
According to the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), officers responded to reports of an active shooting around 7:00 p.m. on Dorsey Drive. Upon arrival, they discovered Jonathan Joss, 59, lying unresponsive near the roadway.
Emergency services attempted life-saving measures on-site. However, when paramedics from EMS arrived, Joss was declared deceased at the scene.
Police quickly identified and apprehended the suspect, Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, 56, a known neighbor of the actor. Ceja was reportedly fleeing the area in a vehicle when law enforcement detained him. He has been charged with murder, and the investigation remains ongoing.
For updates on homicide investigations in Texas, refer to the Texas Department of Public Safety website.
A Voice That Defined a Generation: Remembering Jonathan Joss
Joss earned nationwide recognition for his role as John Redcorn in King of the Hill, a hit animated sitcom that originally aired on FOX from 1997 to 2010. He joined the cast in season 3, taking over from original actor Victor Aaron, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 1996.
The character of John Redcorn, a Native American healer, became a cultural icon, and Joss’s performance was widely praised for its depth and authenticity.
Joss was set to reprise his role in the upcoming King of the Hill reboot, which is scheduled to debut on Hulu in August 2025. Recording for the revival series had already begun, and fans were eagerly anticipating the return of the beloved character.
Final Public Appearance and Instagram Farewell
Just days before his death, Jonathan Joss participated in the ATX TV Festival in Austin, where he reunited with cast members Pamela Adlon (Bobby Hill), Lauren Tom (Connie Souphanousinphone), and Toby Huss (Dale Gribble). The panel also included new writer Saladin K. Patterson, who shared insights into the upcoming reboot.
Hours before his passing, Joss posted a video on his Instagram account, expressing excitement about the show’s progress and the fan support. Walking through downtown Austin, he said, “The reboot is up and moving.” That short video now stands as his final message to fans.
Beyond ‘King of the Hill’: A Versatile Career
In addition to his iconic animated role, Joss portrayed Chief Ken Hotate in the NBC comedy Parks and Recreation, further establishing himself as a strong voice for Native American representation in entertainment. His film and TV credits include:
- Tulsa King (Paramount+)
- Ray Donovan (Showtime)
- True Grit (2010)
- The Magnificent Seven (2016)
- Walker, Texas Ranger
Numerous voice roles in documentaries and educational programs
Tributes and Legacy
While official statements from Hulu and Fox are still pending, fans and fellow actors have begun sharing tributes on social media. Many praised Joss not only for his talent but also for his advocacy for Indigenous representation in Hollywood.
A lifelong supporter of Native American rights, Joss frequently spoke about the importance of authentic storytelling in media. He collaborated with several advocacy groups and supported educational outreach in tribal communities.
For more on media representation and Native American advocacy, visit the National Museum of the American Indian and Native American Rights Fund.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Information
The San Antonio Police Department continues to investigate the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting. Updates will be provided on their official website and through local news outlets.
The public is reminded that anyone with relevant information can contact SAPD or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at www.sacrimestoppers.com.
Final Thoughts
Jonathan Joss leaves behind a legacy of powerful storytelling, cultural pride, and heartfelt performances that resonated with audiences across generations. His voice may be gone, but the characters he portrayed—and the impact he made—will live on.
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