Jonathan Joss: The Voice Behind John Redcorn and His Enduring Legacy

 

Jonathan Joss: The Voice Behind John Redcorn and His Enduring Legacy

 

Jonathan Joss, a celebrated actor and musician, was best known for voicing the character John Redcorn in the animated series King of the Hill. His untimely death in June 2025 shocked fans and colleagues alike. This blog delves into his life, career, and the impact he left behind. 

Early Life and Heritage

Born Jonathan Joss Gonzales on December 22, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas, Joss was of Comanche and White Mountain Apache descent. He pursued theater and speech at Our Lady of the Lake University, laying the foundation for his future in acting.  

Rise to Fame: Voicing John Redcorn

Joss gained prominence by voicing John Redcorn in King of the Hill, starting from the show's second season. John Redcorn, a Native American healer and musician, was a complex character involved in a long-term affair with Nancy Gribble, making him the biological father of Joseph Gribble.  

Joss's portrayal brought depth and authenticity to the character, resonating with audiences and highlighting Native American representation in mainstream media. 

Other Notable Roles

Beyond King of the Hill, Joss appeared as Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation, further showcasing his versatility. His film credits include roles in The Magnificent Seven, True Grit, and Walker, Texas Ranger.  

Personal Life and Advocacy

In February 2025, Joss married his partner, Tristan Kern de Gonzales. The couple faced challenges, including the loss of their home and pets in a fire earlier that year.  

Joss was also a musician, performing with The Red Corn Band, blending his artistic talents to celebrate his heritage.  

Tragic Demise

On June 1, 2025, Joss was fatally shot outside his former home in San Antonio. The suspect, Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, was arrested and charged with murder. Joss's husband alleged the attack was motivated by homophobia, citing prior harassment. However, police stated no evidence currently supports this claim.  

Legacy and Impact

Joss's contributions to entertainment and representation of Native American culture remain significant. His portrayal of John Redcorn provided visibility to Native American narratives in mainstream media. 

He had recently completed voice work for a King of the Hill revival, ensuring his legacy would continue to influence and inspire.  

Conclusion

Jonathan Joss's life and career were marked by talent, resilience, and a commitment to authentic representation. His work continues to resonate, reminding us of the importance of diversity and inclusion in storytelling.