Jonathan Joss, Beloved ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘King of the Hill’ Actor, Dies at 59 in Tragic Shooting
Jonathan Joss, a cherished actor known for his roles in Parks and Recreation and King of the Hill, tragically passed away at the age of 59 on June 1, 2025, following a fatal shooting outside his former home in San Antonio, Texas.
A Life Dedicated to Representation and Art
Born on December 22, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas, Jonathan Joss was of Comanche and White Mountain Apache descent. He pursued theater and speech at Our Lady of the Lake University, laying the foundation for a career that would span over three decades.
Joss gained widespread recognition for voicing John Redcorn in the animated series King of the Hill, a role he held from seasons 2 through 13. He also portrayed Chief Ken Hotate in NBC’s Parks and Recreation, bringing depth and authenticity to Native American characters on mainstream television. His film credits include roles in The Magnificent Seven, True Grit, and appearances in series like Walker, Texas Ranger and Friday Night Lights.(Wikipedia)
A Tragic End Rooted in Hate
On the evening of June 1, Joss and his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, visited the remains of their home, which had been destroyed in a fire earlier that year. During their visit, they were confronted by neighbor Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, who allegedly shouted homophobic slurs before opening fire. Joss heroically shielded his husband from the gunfire, sacrificing his own life. Alvarez was arrested shortly after and charged with murder.
Kern de Gonzales revealed that the couple had endured years of harassment and threats due to their relationship, which they had reported to authorities without effective response. The San Antonio Police Department stated that, while there is no current evidence to classify the incident as a hate crime, the investigation remains ongoing.
A Community Mourns
The news of Joss’s untimely death sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and his fanbase. Nick Offerman, Joss’s co-star on Parks and Recreation, expressed profound sorrow, noting that the cast had been in constant communication, mourning their friend’s loss.
Fans and colleagues alike have taken to social media to honor Joss’s legacy, highlighting his contributions to authentic Native American representation in media and his unwavering commitment to his craft.
Remembering Jonathan Joss
Beyond his professional achievements, Joss was known for his warmth, generosity, and passion for storytelling. He was also a musician, performing with The Red Corn Band, named after his King of the Hill character.(Wikipedia)
His husband, Kern de Gonzales, shared a heartfelt tribute, emphasizing Joss’s bravery and the love they shared. “Jonathan saved my life,” he wrote. “I will carry that forward. I will protect what he built.”
A Legacy That Endures
Jonathan Joss’s life was a testament to resilience, artistry, and love. His portrayal of Native American characters broke barriers and brought nuanced representation to the screen. As the entertainment world and his community continue to grieve, his legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in challenging stereotypes and fostering understanding.