The character John Redcorn, beloved by fans of King of the Hill, has taken on a somber note with the heartbreaking news of the death of Jonathan Joss, the voice actor who brought him to life. On June 1, 2025, Joss, aged 59, was fatally shot in San Antonio, Texas, following a heated argument with a neighbor. This devastating event has left fans mourning the loss of a talented actor whose portrayal of John Redcorn, the Native American masseur and musician, resonated deeply with audiences. The incident has sparked conversations about gun violence and community safety, while the entertainment world grieves a voice that defined a cultural icon.
The Legacy of John Redcorn
John Redcorn, a fan-favorite character from King of the Hill, was a complex figure in the fictional town of Arlen, Texas. Known for his smooth demeanor, musical talents, and complicated personal relationships, he appeared in 34 episodes across the show’s 13-season run from 1997 to 2009. Joss stepped into the role in Season 2, taking over after the original voice actor, Victor Aaron, passed away in 1996. His deep, resonant voice gave John Redcorn an authentic and memorable presence, blending charm with quiet strength. Joss’s performance made the character a standout, often stealing scenes with his understated humor and emotional depth.
Beyond King of the Hill, Joss’s career spanned live-action roles and other voice work. He played Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation, bringing his signature wit to five episodes. His film credits included True Grit and The Magnificent Seven, while his voice graced video games like Red Dead Redemption and Cyberpunk 2077. Joss, a San Antonio native, also performed as part of The Red Corn Band, a nod to his iconic animated character.
Details of the Tragic Incident
On the evening of June 1, 2025, a dispute at a San Antonio residence escalated into violence. Joss, engaged in a heated argument with his neighbor, 56-year-old Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, was shot multiple times. Police arrived around 7:00 p.m. after reports of a shooting in progress. Despite attempts by officers and paramedics to save him, Joss was pronounced dead at the scene. Ceja fled in a vehicle but was quickly apprehended a block away and charged with murder. His bond was set at $200,000, and authorities continue to investigate the cause of the altercation.
Just hours before the tragedy, Joss shared an Instagram video discussing the upcoming King of the Hill revival on Hulu, set to premiere in August 2025. He expressed excitement about the project, noting that recording had already begun. Fans flooded his final social media post with tributes, reflecting the profound impact of his work.
John Redcorn’s Role in the Revival
The King of the Hill revival, eagerly anticipated by fans, now carries a bittersweet weight. Joss had recorded lines for John Redcorn, ensuring his voice would be part of the new season. The show, set to feature an eight-year time jump, follows Hank and Peggy Hill returning to Arlen after working in Saudi Arabia. Bobby Hill, now a chef in Dallas, navigates his 20s alongside familiar characters like Connie and Joseph. While the revival promises fresh storylines, Joss’s absence leaves uncertainty about how John Redcorn’s arc will continue.
The loss of Joss follows the passing of another King of the Hill voice actor, Johnny Hardwick, who voiced Dale Gribble and died in 2023. The show’s team has faced challenges in preserving its legacy, with new voice actors like Toby Huss stepping in for Hardwick. Fans hope the revival will honor Joss’s contribution, perhaps through a tribute to John Redcorn, whose story remains integral to Arlen’s charm.
A Loss Felt Across Communities
Joss’s death has reverberated beyond entertainment, touching on broader issues of gun violence in Texas. The incident has prompted discussions about community safety and the need for conflict resolution. As a Native American actor, Joss was a trailblazer, bringing authentic representation to television. His work opened doors for indigenous talent, and his warm presence left a mark on colleagues and fans alike.
Tributes continue to pour in, with fans sharing memories of John Redcorn’s iconic moments, from his music with Big Mountain Fudgecake to his poignant relationship with Nancy Gribble. Joss’s ability to infuse humor and heart into the character made John Redcorn a cultural touchstone, one that will endure despite this tragedy.
Honoring a Voice That Defined a Generation
The loss of Jonathan Joss is a gut punch to King of the Hill fans and the entertainment world. His portrayal of John Redcorn brought depth to a character who balanced humor with humanity. As the Hulu revival approaches, viewers will cherish hearing his voice one last time, a reminder of his talent and legacy. This tragedy underscores the fragility of life and the need for compassion in our communities.
Share your favorite John Redcorn moment in the comments below, and let’s keep Joss’s memory alive by celebrating his incredible contributions to storytelling and representation.