Jonathan Joss, the beloved voice behind John Redcorn in King of the Hill, was tragically shot and killed on the evening of June 1 in San Antonio, Texas. The 59-year-old actor was discovered near the roadway after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds. Despite officers’ attempts at life-saving measures, Joss was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities swiftly detained a suspect, identified as 56-year-old neighbor Sigfredo Alvarez Cejam, who fled the scene but was apprehended just a block away. He has since been booked for murder.

The incident quickly escalated into a trending topic online, sparking widespread concern among fans and the public. Many have been searching for more details about the shooting, as well as information about Joss’ life, biography, and net worth. The circumstances surrounding his death have raised significant questions, especially given the hate crime allegations made by Joss’ husband.

ALSO READ. Who was Jonathan Joss, ‘King of the Hill’ Voice Actor, and who is his husband?

Why is the shooting being considered a hate crime?

According to a heartfelt statement posted by Joss’ husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, on the actor’s official Facebook page, the shooting was rooted in homophobia. Gonzales explained:

“My husband Jonathan Joss and I were involved in a shooting while checking the mail at the site of our former home. That home was burned down after over two years of threats from people in the area who repeatedly told us they would set it on fire.”

The couple had allegedly faced persistent harassment due to their relationship. Gonzales detailed that they had been threatened multiple times, with homophobic slurs often hurled at them. On the day of the shooting, they returned to their former property to collect mail and discovered the skull of one of their dogs, left in clear view.

“We began yelling and crying in response to the pain of what we saw. While we were doing this a man approached us. He started yelling violent homophobic slurs at us. He then raised a gun from his lap and fired.”

In an act of bravery, Joss reportedly pushed Gonzales out of the way, sacrificing himself to save his partner’s life.

Who is Jonathan Joss?

Jonathan Joss Gonzales, often credited simply as Jonathan Joss, was a well-respected Native American actor known for voicing John Redcorn in King of the Hill from Season 2 through Season 13. He stepped into the role after the death of original voice actor Victor Aaron in 1996. Joss also reprised his role for the upcoming revival of the series, with his voice already recorded for at least the second episode of the new season.

Outside of King of the Hill, Joss enjoyed a successful career in television and film. He portrayed Chief Ken Hotate in the popular sitcom Parks and Recreation, and appeared in productions like Tulsa King, Ray Donovan, True Grit, and The Magnificent Seven.

Just two days before his tragic death, Joss made a surprise appearance at a “King of the Hill” panel during the ATX Television Festival in Austin. He addressed the audience, expressing his grief over the discrimination he had faced:

“I’m an actor. I see a mic, I use it. I see a wrong, I make it right. I take a breath, I want to breathe.”

He added:

“My house burned down three months ago because I’m gay.”

His words now echo with even greater poignancy in light of the events that followed.

What has Tristan Kern de Gonzales said about Jonathan Joss’ death?

In his Facebook statement, Gonzales offered an emotional tribute to his late husband. The two had only recently married on Valentine’s Day earlier this year, and were eagerly planning their future together.

“Jonathan gave me more love in our time together than most people ever get.”

He continued:

“He was murdered by someone who could not stand the sight of two men loving each other. I was with him when he passed. I told him how much he was loved.”

Gonzales emphasized Joss’ profound appreciation for his fans and supporters, describing how he considered them family. In the wake of the tragedy, Gonzales vowed:

“My focus now is on protecting Jonathan’s legacy and honoring the life we built together. Jonathan saved my life. I will carry that forward. I will protect what he built.”

What is the legacy of John Redcorn and “King of the Hill”?

Jonathan Joss’ portrayal of John Redcorn remains one of his most iconic roles. King of the Hill, created by Mike Judge and Greg Daniels, aired on Fox from 1997 to 2009, spanning more than 250 episodes. The show earned a loyal fanbase, and the character of John Redcorn, a healer with Native American roots, became a fan favorite.

Joss’ contribution to the series will live on, especially as Hulu prepares to launch a revival season on August 4. Fans can look forward to hearing Joss in at least one upcoming episode.

Beyond King of the Hill, Joss’ role in Parks and Recreation as Chief Ken Hotate brought humor and heart to the beloved comedy. His other credits include appearances in notable films and TV shows that highlight his versatility as an actor.

Who is Sigfredo Alvarez Cejam, the suspect?

Sigfredo Alvarez Cejam, 56, has been identified as the alleged shooter. According to reports, he was a neighbor of Joss and Gonzales. Details about Cejam’s background remain sparse, but the hate-motivated nature of the crime has intensified scrutiny of the circumstances. Authorities continue to investigate the case, but public outcry for justice has been overwhelming.

What is known about Jonathan Joss’ net worth?

Although there are many Google searches about Jonathan Joss’s net worth, there is no information on specialized sites on the subject.

How has the public reacted to Jonathan Joss’ death?

News of Jonathan Joss’ untimely death shocked fans and colleagues alike. Social media platforms quickly flooded with tributes, memories, and calls for justice. The search for terms like “Jonathan Joss Gonzales,” “Tristan Kern,” “Sigfredo Alvarez,” “King of the Hill actor shot,” and “John Redcorn voice actor” surged as people sought to learn more.