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1965 - 2025
1965 - 2025
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1965
2025
Jonathan Joss, an actor known for playing Chief Ken Hotate in the sitcom "Parks and Recreation" and for voicing John Redcorn in the animated sitcom "King of the Hill," was killed June 1, 2025, in San Antonio, Texas at the age of 59.?
Joss entered the world of acting after earning a theater degree from Our Lady of the Lake University in Texas, making his on-screen debut in the 1995 film "8 Seconds." Three years later, he landed a role in the hit animated sitcom "King of Hill," the second actor to voice the new age healer and masseur John Redcorn. Beginning in the second season, he brought increased success to the character, and he remained with the show for the rest of its 13 original seasons. He returned for the 2025 re-launch, recording his work for it shortly before his death. Other notable roles include Chief Ken Hotate in "Parks and Recreation" and young Raymond Firewalker in "Walker, Texas Ranger," as well as appearances in "Charmed," "ER," and the films "True Grit" and "The Magnificent Seven." Joss was reportedly shot and killed by a neighbor who had previously argued with Joss and his husband multiple times, allegedly targeting them for their sexual orientation.
"Jonathan is my husband. He gave me more love in our time together than most people ever get. We were newlyweds. We picked Valentines Day. We were in the process of looking for a trailer and planning our future," his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, said on Facebook. "I was with him when he passed. I told him how much he was loved. To everyone who supported him, his fans, his friends, know that he valued you deeply. He saw you as family."
By Eric San Juan
(Image: Jonathan Joss via Facebook)
11 Entries
Mr.Jr.
July 10, 2025
My Condolences, to the family.
Clover Holmes
June 9, 2025
I know that there are people that didn't understand Jon, but my friends that knew him outside of his work life all seem to say the same thing. That he was generous, and giving. That he was a good person with a kind heart. And that he absolutely loved his husband. If I never knew another thing about him, that would be all I would need.
I'm so sorry that this happened to you. I'm so sorry for how ugly people have been toward you. But I believe that love cancels out all of that hate.
After all is said and done, love is the only thing that matters. And it it is beyond question that you were, and are still truly loved.
Steph Michele
June 8, 2025
Jonathan,
I never had the honour of meeting you, but your spirit reached me across time and distance. Your voice gave life to stories that mattered. Your presence held a kind of grace that doesn´t come often.
The impact you left-in my life, and in so many others-flows deep. You matter-then, now, and always.
To Tristan,
Thank you for sharing him with us. My heart is with you, both now and always.
With love and remembrance,
Steph
Jerry Connelly
June 5, 2025
He was such a talented actor . His characters were memorable and loved ! You will be missed ! Praying for the family
RB
June 5, 2025
Heartfelt condolences to the Joss family for the very tragic loss of Jonathan. May God grant strength, comfort and peace to you all as you go through this very difficult time of your loss.
Anonymous
June 4, 2025
In memory of Mr Jonathan Joss
Cathy Viviano
June 4, 2025
Sympathy, prayers, thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of the late Jonathan Joss.
Leslie Redaway
June 3, 2025
Cokie
June 3, 2025
vHe will be missed as Denali in The Magnificent Seven or (Voiced actor ) Ohiyesa "Pow Wow" Smith appears in the Justice League Unlimited episode "The Once and Future Thing Part One:Weird Western Tales"
Marcella
June 3, 2025
JJ you will be missed we made great laughs and made friendship memories. Sing and act with the Angels. RIP.
Matthew Stearn
June 3, 2025
You have my deepest condolences and are in my thoughts
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