HOUSTON — The circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Jonathan Joss, a prominent Native American voice actor renowned for his contribution to the animated series “King of the Hill,” continue to remain uncertain. Investigators are currently examining the possibility that his sexual orientation might have been a factor leading to his death.
Joss’ husband reported that the attacker directed “violent homophobic slurs” at Joss prior to the shooting. Initially, the San Antonio police announced they found “no evidence whatsoever” that Joss’s murder was connected to his sexual orientation. However, on Thursday, Police Chief William McManus retracted this earlier assertion, acknowledging that the investigation will include consideration of whether his sexual orientation was a contributing factor.
In the wake of Joss’s death, his friends, colleagues from the acting community, and fans have been commemorating his life and work through various tributes and recollections of fond memories.
Jonathan Joss, aged 59, originated from San Antonio and pursued studies in communications and theater at Our Lady of the Lake University, completing his graduation in 1990. His most celebrated role was voicing John Redcorn, a Native American character, in the highly-acclaimed series “King of the Hill,” which aired from 1997 to 2008. Anticipation was building for the series reboot, scheduled to debut in August, especially since Joss had already lent his voice to the revival. His TV credits also include a recurring part as Chief Ken Hotate on the show “Parks and Recreation” and appearances in the 2022 series “Tulsa King.”
In the months leading up to his untimely death, Joss experienced significant personal challenges. A fire consumed his childhood home in January, leaving him without possessions and tragically claiming the lives of his three dogs. In response, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to aid Joss and his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, during their recovery period. Despite such adversity, Joss maintained his optimism, as reflected in a May Facebook post, where he alluded to his search for a new abode in Los Angeles by expressing gratitude for the support received.
Joss returned to Texas by late May and participated in a live performance in Austin shortly before his death.
The individual accused of murdering Joss is Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, 56, was allegedly involved in a confrontation with Joss and his husband at the site of their burned residence. Jonathan Joss reportedly saved his husband’s life by pushing him out of harm’s way during the shooting. Alvarez is facing a murder charge and has been released on a $200,000 bond.
Alvarez’s attorney, Alfonso Otero, urged the public to reserve judgment until the evidence undergoes thorough evaluation by prosecutors. Otero emphasized that Alvarez maintains his innocence and denied all allegations, advocating for a fair judicial process and respecting the privacy of those involved.
Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales commented on the possibility of designating the shooting as a hate crime, which, under state law, would serve as an enhancement during sentencing instead of a standalone charge. Gonzales expressed openness to this consideration when the case proceeds.
Neighboring disputes over several years between Joss and Alvarez were documented, with police visits to Joss’s neighborhood occurring approximately 70 times in the past two years due to assorted disturbances.
Tributes poured in to honor Joss’s legacy. Actor Chris Pratt, a colleague from “Parks and Recreation,” and “The Magnificent Seven,” paid his respects on Instagram, reminiscing about Joss’s kindness. Our Lady of the Lake University hailed him as a trailblazer, and “King of the Hill” creators extended their condolences, highlighting the void left by Joss’s passing and the enduring impact of his work.