Jonathan Joss, Voice of John Redcorn on “King of the Hill,” Fatally Shot in San Antonio at Age 59
SAN ANTONIO, TX — The entertainment world is mourning the sudden and tragic death of Jonathan Joss, the actor best known for voicing John Redcorn on the iconic animated series King of the Hill. Joss was shot and killed Sunday evening outside his former home in San Antonio, Texas. He was 59 years old.
According to the San Antonio Police Department, the fatal shooting occurred around 7 p.m. in a neighborhood where Joss had long lived. He was reportedly shot multiple times and pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect, Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, also 59, was apprehended just a block away from the site of the shooting after fleeing the scene. He is currently being held in the Bexar County Jail on a $200,000 bond.
A Longtime Neighbor Dispute Turns Deadly
Neighbors told local news outlet KENS 5 that the shooting was the tragic culmination of a longstanding feud between Joss and Alvarez. According to multiple residents on the block, the two men had been frequent antagonists, with tensions that often escalated into heated arguments, many of which reportedly involved threats and the presence of weapons.
Joss, who once resided in the home where the shooting occurred, had lost the property to a devastating fire several months ago. Though the structure was no longer livable, neighbors say Joss continued to return to the property regularly to collect mail from a mailbox that had remained intact.
“He didn’t cause trouble,” one neighbor told reporters. “He just came by to check his mail. But those two had history—everyone knew they didn’t get along. Still, no one ever expected it would come to this.”
A Voice That Resonated: Joss’s Legacy in Entertainment
Jonathan Joss leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his Texas roots. He was best known for voicing John Redcorn, the stoic, long-haired Native American healer in King of the Hill. He took over the role in season two of the series, following the tragic death of original voice actor Victor Aaron in 1996. Joss continued in the role through the show’s final season in 2010.
The character of John Redcorn became one of the most memorable parts of the animated sitcom, which has retained a loyal fan base even years after its original run. His performance helped imbue the show with cultural texture and nuance that resonated with viewers, particularly in Native communities.
Joss had reportedly recorded lines for the upcoming revival of King of the Hill, set to debut on Hulu. It remains unclear whether his character will still appear in the new episodes or if his work had been completed.
Beyond “King of the Hill”: A Career of Substance
While Joss was best known for his voice acting, his career spanned both television and film. He had a recurring guest role as Chief Ken Hotate in NBC’s Parks and Recreation, a beloved and comically wise character who led the Wamapoke tribe. The role further endeared Joss to audiences for his ability to blend wit, depth, and a subtle commentary on Native American representation in popular media.
According to IMDb, Joss’s acting credits also include roles in hit series such as Tulsa King, Ray Donovan, and Walker, Texas Ranger. He also appeared in major motion pictures, including the 2010 remake of True Grit and Antoine Fuqua’s The Magnificent Seven.
Colleagues in Hollywood have described Joss as humble, kind, and proud of his heritage, often advocating for Native American visibility and authenticity in the roles he chose.
Tributes Pour In
Following the news of his death, fans and colleagues alike have taken to social media to express their grief and admiration for Joss.
“He brought heart and dignity to every role, whether comedic or dramatic,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “John Redcorn was iconic because of him.”
Producers associated with the King of the Hill revival have yet to comment publicly, but insiders say the team is “devastated” by the loss.
Legal Proceedings Underway
Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, the alleged shooter, has been charged with murder and remains in custody. Police are continuing their investigation into the incident and are working to compile reports from eyewitnesses and surveillance footage in the neighborhood.
No additional injuries were reported, and authorities say that there is no ongoing threat to the public. A full autopsy on Joss will be conducted by the Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office.
A Life Remembered
Jonathan Joss’s death is not only a tremendous loss to the entertainment industry but also a deeply personal loss to those who knew him as a friend, artist, and advocate. With roots in Texas and a voice recognized across generations, he had a rare ability to bring sincerity and depth to every character he portrayed.
His tragic death serves as a stark reminder of how unresolved conflict and access to firearms can lead to irreparable consequences—even for those who brought joy and meaning into the lives of millions.
Joss is survived by family, close friends, and a devoted fanbase who will continue to cherish his contributions to television, film, and Native American representation.
Rest in peace, Jonathan Joss.
A voice that will echo forever.