Jonathan Joss, a notable American actor and voice artist, made a significant impact on the entertainment industry over the course of his three-decade career, renowned for his authentic portrayals of Indigenous characters that resonated deeply with audiences. Joss is perhaps best known for his role as John Redcorn in the beloved animated series King of the Hill and as Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation. His work not only showcased his exceptional talent but also highlighted the importance of cultural representation in media, earning him a dedicated following and respect within the industry.
Born Jonathan Gonzales on December 22, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas, Joss was of Comanche and White Mountain Apache descent. He began his journey in the arts at an early age, attending McCollum High School before pursuing further education at Texas State University-San Marcos. Although he did not graduate from there, he continued his studies at San Antonio College and eventually earned a degree in theater and speech from Our Lady of the Lake University. This educational background laid the foundation for his diverse career in acting, voice work, and entrepreneurship.
Joss’s acting career took off in the early 1990s, with his breakout role as Medic Del Rio in the 1994 film 8 Seconds. His most noteworthy performance came when he was cast as John Redcorn, a Native American healer, on King of the Hill starting in its second season after the untimely death of the original voice actor. This role allowed Joss to bring life to a character that echoed his own cultural heritage and experiences, garnering praise for the authenticity and nuance he infused into the role. He continued to garner attention and acclaim for his comedic prowess and thoughtful portrayals in various films and television series. Notable projects included his role in Parks and Recreation, where he deftly combined humor with sensitive cultural commentary, as well as appearances in films like True Grit and The Magnificent Seven. Beyond films and television, Joss also made significant contributions to the video game industry with voice roles in popular titles such as Red Dead Redemption and Cyberpunk 2077.
In 2011, Joss ventured into entrepreneurship by launching a line of spice rubs inspired by his character in King of the Hill. This business endeavor, featuring products like the "Redcorn King of the Grill" starter pack, not only showcased his creativity but also allowed him to cultivate a diversified income stream that complemented his earnings from acting. This entrepreneurial spirit reflected his ability to capitalize on his fame while engaging with fans in a new and innovative way.
Joss’s personal life, while marked by achievements and resilience, was also impacted by tragedy. In January 2025, a devastating fire destroyed his home in San Antonio, resulting in the tragic loss of three of his dogs. This incident served as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of life, yet Joss demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adversity. Just weeks later, he found love in his partner, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, and they married on Valentine’s Day 2025, providing a testament to their shared commitment to support one another.
Tragically, Joss’s life was abruptly cut short when he was shot and killed on June 1, 2025, outside his San Antonio residence. The fatal incident reportedly arose during a confrontation with a neighbor, Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, who allegedly hurled homophobic slurs at Joss and his husband before opening fire. Joss was pronounced dead at the scene, and Ceja was subsequently arrested and charged with first-degree murder. This shocking event highlighted broader issues surrounding safety and discrimination, drawing attention to the challenges faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community and individuals marginalized based on their ethnicity.
At the time of his death, Joss’s net worth was estimated to be around $18.5 million, a figure derived from his various income sources, including his acting roles, voice work, and his successful spice business. Throughout his career, it is believed that he earned between $200,000 to $300,000 annually during his peak years on King of the Hill, with additional revenue generated from his other roles and entrepreneurial pursuits. His legacy, however, extends far beyond numbers; it is enshrined in the cultural narratives he helped shape and the lives he touched both on and off the screen.
Joss’s commitment to portraying Indigenous characters with depth, compassion, and authenticity set new benchmarks within Hollywood, breaking barriers that often hinder genuine representation. His work not only paved the way for greater visibility of Indigenous narratives but also demonstrated that storytelling grounded in cultural truth has the power to foster understanding and empathy among diverse audiences. His entrepreneurial ventures further illustrated his dynamic approach to life and career, reinforcing the importance of resilience, adaptability, and creativity in navigating the entertainment landscape.
The impact of Joss’s untimely death resonates profoundly within the entertainment community and among fans who cherished his contributions. His dedication to advancing cultural representation, coupled with the artistic legacy he leaves behind, serves as both an inspiration and a clarion call for continued dialogue regarding inclusivity and understanding in the industry. Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding his passing, Joss’s life story endures as a testament to the enduring impact one individual can have in promoting diversity and compassion, underscoring the crucial role of art in shaping societal perceptions and fostering connection among disparate communities.
As conversations around representation, safety, and community support continue to unfold, Jonathan Joss’s legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the talent and warmth that can emerge from diversity in storytelling. His work remains a significant contribution to the collective understanding of cultural narratives, encouraging a future where such stories continue to thrive and evolve in a manner that honors the complexities of the human experience.