Many of you are already aware that Jonathan Joss was tragically killed recently. His voice work as John Redcorn is instantly recognizable to fans who grew up watching the dark comedy King of the Hill.
The show had recently returned to the spotlight after news broke of a planned revival. But before fans could fully celebrate the return of the beloved series, tragedy struck. When news of Joss’s death first broke, few details were shared by his grieving family. That has since changed. His widow, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, posted an emotional statement on Facebook—using Joss’s former account—revealing that the shooting was the result of a homophobic attack.
According to reporting from the BBC, an investigation is ongoing, and there are conflicting accounts of what happened. Joss and Gonzales were visiting their former home in Texas, which had reportedly been the target of an arson attack following repeated threats from neighbors. Gonzales recounted a horrific discovery at the site: the skull of one of their dogs had been deliberately placed in the ruins.
Overcome with grief, the couple began sobbing at the scene. It was then, Gonzales said, that a man approached them, shouting homophobic slurs. From his lap, the man raised a gun and opened fire. Joss pushed Gonzales out of the line of fire. “He saved my life,” a clearly devastated Gonzales shared. “My husband saved my life.”
The incident comes amid a disturbing rise in events motivated by homophobia. That it occurred on the cusp of Pride Month only deepens the sorrow, and many on social media have pointed to the killing as yet another reminder of why Pride still matters — why it remains necessary. Because, heartbreakingly, it is still dangerous in many places simply to live and love openly.
And people wonder why Pride Month exists.
— The EnBaron of Z-Land (@BaronOfZLand) June 2, 2025
RIP Redcorn.
However, the San Antonio Police Department has released a statement saying that, at this time, investigators have not found conclusive evidence to classify the killing as a hate crime. The department added that it takes such allegations seriously and will update the charge if new evidence emerges. The police said:
“Despite online claims of this being a hate crime, currently the investigation has found no evidence to indicate that the Mr Joss’s murder was related to his sexual orientation.”
An arrest has already been made. Sigfredo Alvarez Cejo is currently in custody on suspicion of murder. As the case continues to develop and more details come to light, everyone will likely get a fuller picture. Gonzales’s statement may also prove crucial in helping the police gain further context and clarity.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues and admirers. The creators of King of the Hill issued a heartfelt statement saying Joss’s voice will be deeply missed. Actor Nick Offerman also shared a tribute calling him a “sweet guy.” Offerman not only co-starred with Joss on Parks and Recreation but also portrayed the lead in “Long, Long Time,” a widely praised episode of The Last of Us that tenderly explored a gay relationship and has since become one of the most celebrated portrayals of queer love on television.
Jonathan Joss’s death is a tremendous loss. He was recently present at a panel for the King of the Hill revival, which is set to premiere on Hulu starting August 4. This story is still developing.
