Jonathan Joss

Jonathan Joss Biography

Jonathan Joss was an American actor and musician best known for his distinctive voice work as John Redcorn on the popular animated TV series King of the Hill. In addition to his voice acting, he gained recognition for his live-action role as Chief Ken Hotate on the NBC sitcom Parks and Recreation. Joss was celebrated for bringing depth and humor to his characters, and for his contributions to Native American representation in film and television.

Childhood

Jonathan Joss Gonzales was born on December 22, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas. He grew up in this vibrant Texas city, attending McCollum High School. While details about his family are private, his Native American ancestry was a significant part of his identity and influenced much of his work as an actor and musician.

Education

Jonathan Joss pursued his early education in San Antonio, including his time at McCollum High School where he developed a strong interest in the arts. Though detailed records of his higher education are not widely publicized, his early passion for acting and music paved the way for his subsequent professional career in entertainment.

Career

Joss's professional acting career began in the 1990s with roles in films such as the rodeo drama 8 Seconds and TV miniseries Dead Man’s Walk. He became widely known as the voice of John Redcorn on King of the Hill, a role he took over in 1996 and continued until the series ended, and in a revival in 2025. Joss also gained acclaim for his recurring role as Chief Ken Hotate on Parks and Recreation, where he blended humor with cultural nuance. His film work included roles in The Magnificent Seven (2016) and True Grit (2010), while his voice extended to video games like Red Dead Redemption. Beyond acting, he was a musician with released albums showcasing his talents in singing and songwriting.

Family Life

Jonathan Joss was openly gay and married to his husband. He was private about his family life but was known to have a close personal circle and strong ties to the Native American community. His life and relationships reflected his advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and Indigenous representation, both of which he championed throughout his career.

Achievements

Joss’s achievements include a memorable legacy in voice acting and live-action roles that brought Native American culture into mainstream media respectfully and authentically. His work on King of the Hill brought a lasting character to life for over two decades. Beyond entertainment, he was regarded as a role model for LGBTQ+ individuals and Indigenous actors in Hollywood, receiving recognition for his contributions to representation and diversity.

Controversies

Jonathan Joss’s career was notably free from controversies. He maintained a positive professional reputation and was respected for his commitment to his craft and advocacy. His untimely death in 2025 was reported as a tragic incident, stirring conversations about violence but not linked to any controversies regarding his personal or professional conduct.

Jonathan Joss Summary

Jonathan Joss was a talented actor and musician whose work significantly impacted television and representation of Native American and LGBTQ+ communities in the media. Born in San Antonio, Texas, he built a diverse career with iconic roles in King of the Hill and Parks and Recreation, earning respect for his authentic portrayals and advocacy. His legacy continues to inspire many in entertainment and beyond.