Jonathan Joss Gonzales Obituary: (December 22, 1965 – June 1, 2025) was a Native American actor and musician best known for voicing John Redcorn on King of the Hill and portraying Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation. He was tragically shot and killed by a neighbor at the age of 59 in San Antonio, Texas.
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Early Life and Education
Born in San Antonio, Texas, Joss grew up in a family that owned a Mexican restaurant. He graduated from McCollum High School in 1984 and initially enrolled at Texas State University–San Marcos but left before completing his studies. He later attended San Antonio College and graduated from Our Lady of the Lake University with a degree in theater and speech.
Acting Career and Voice Work
Joss made his mark in animation by voicing John Redcorn from Season 2 to Season 13 of King of the Hill, replacing Victor Aaron after his untimely death in 1996. His deep voice and cultural authenticity brought life to the character, making it iconic in American animated television.
In live-action, he played Chief Ken Hotate in the hit comedy series Parks and Recreation. His on-screen charisma and comedic timing made the role a fan favorite.
Musical Career and Cultural Impact
Outside of acting, Joss was a talented musician. He performed in The Red Corn Band, a playful nod to his King of the Hill character. The show later introduced the fictional band Big Mountain Fudgecake, inspired by Joss’s real-life music.
Joss collaborated with the Graywolf Blues Band on tracks such as Boogey Man and Still No Good, featured on the album Dancing in the Rain.
In 2011, he expanded his creativity into entrepreneurship by launching his own line of spice rubs.
Return to King of the Hill Revival
Shortly before his death, Joss began recording new episodes for the upcoming King of the Hill revival. On June 1, 2025, just hours before his death, he shared an Instagram video walking through Austin, stating that he had already completed voice work for four episodes.
Personal Life and Identity
Joss was of Comanche and White Mountain Apache descent. In February 2025, he married Tristan Kern de Gonzales on Valentine’s Day, solidifying a loving relationship that he openly celebrated.
January 2025 House Fire and Public Fallout
On January 23, 2025, Joss’s San Antonio home was destroyed in a fire that also claimed the lives of three of his dogs, with a fourth going missing. Joss later explained that he had left a propane heater on, although he expressed uncertainty about the fire’s origin.
In May 2025, he attended the ATX TV Festival but reported not being invited to the official King of the Hill panel. He sat in the audience and later interrupted the event, claiming that the house fire may have been a targeted act of homophobic arson.
Tragic Death and Circumstances of the Shooting
On June 1, 2025, Joss and his husband were driven to their former residence to check mail when a confrontation erupted with a neighbor. During the altercation, the neighbor allegedly shouted violent homophobic slurs before shooting Joss in the neck and torso. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Joss’s husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, claimed that Joss pushed him out of harm’s way, potentially saving his life. According to witnesses, the suspect admitted, “I shot him,” upon arrest.
History of Neighborhood Conflict
Neighbors reported that Joss and the suspect had a history of arguments. Since January 2025, 74 police calls had been made to the residence. These included incidents involving:
- Reports of gunfire
- Mental health concerns
- Welfare checks
- Allegations of crossbow threats
- Joss allegedly brandishing weapons during public rants
Video footage also surfaced of Joss walking the neighborhood with a pitchfork while shouting.
Hate Crime Allegations and Ongoing Investigation
Tristan Kern de Gonzales has alleged that the shooting was a hate crime, citing years of harassment, including verbal threats and slurs from neighbors. He claims law enforcement failed to act despite multiple complaints.
The San Antonio Police Department released a statement saying no evidence of a hate crime has been confirmed, but the investigation remains active.
Conclusion: Remembering Jonathan Joss Gonzales
Jonathan Joss Gonzales leaves behind a complex legacy: a trailblazing Native American performer, a gifted musician, and a man whose personal and public struggles highlight deep issues surrounding mental health, community safety, and LGBTQ+ rights.
His tragic death underscores the urgent need for stronger responses to neighbor disputes, potential hate crimes, and systemic indifference. Fans and loved ones will remember Joss for his creative contributions, cultural advocacy, and the unique voice he brought to American entertainment.
