Tragic Death of ‘King of the Hill’ and ‘Cyberpunk 2077’ Voice Actor Jonathan Joss Shocks Fans

1. Who Was Jonathan Joss? A Celebrated Voice in TV and Gaming

Jonathan Joss, a highly respected voice actor best known for portraying John Redcorn in King of the Hill and voicing characters in Cyberpunk 2077, tragically passed away at age 59. Joss was also recognized for his roles in Parks and Recreation as Chief Ken Hotate and appeared in several film and TV projects representing Native American characters with dignity and authenticity.

With a career spanning nearly three decades, Joss built a legacy of powerful performances in both animated television and major video games. He had recently finished voice work for the upcoming King of the Hill revival set to air in August 2025.

2. What Happened? Hate Crime Leads to Shocking Death

The incident occurred in San Antonio, Texas, where Joss and his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, returned to visit the ruins of their home, previously destroyed in a suspicious fire. According to reports, the couple was confronted by neighbor Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, who allegedly shouted homophobic slurs before opening fire.

Joss pushed his husband out of the line of fire, sacrificing himself in an act of heroism. Authorities have confirmed that Ceja has been arrested and charged with murder. The attack is being investigated as a hate crime, given the history of harassment the couple faced.

This tragedy highlights the ongoing risks LGBTQ+ individuals continue to face, even in seemingly safe communities.

3. Legacy and Community Reaction to Jonathan Joss’s Death

Joss’s sudden death has sparked an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues, and the broader entertainment community. Tributes online recall his contributions to voice acting, Native American representation, and his courage in the face of adversity.

Joss’s passing comes less than a year after the death of Johnny Hardwick, the voice of Dale Gribble in King of the Hill. Both actors had completed voice recordings for the show’s revival on Hulu, which will now carry the weight of their final performances.

The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented artist and brave individual who stood up for love, identity, and equality. The King of the Hill revival, set to release on August 4, 2025, is now anticipated to serve not only as a continuation of a beloved series but also as a tribute to two irreplaceable voices.