Pride Month is a time for the LGBTQ+ community to have a chance to express themselves openly, without fear, supported by allies who affirm their right to live authentically. It’s a time of celebration—of being alive, proud, and unapologetically oneself. Jonathan Joss was a member of that community and had planned to spend the month with his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales.
However, on 1st June (Sunday), just as Pride began, a shooting took Jonathan’s life. In a statement posted on Facebook, Tristan said the voice actor was shot dead by a neighbour who had been threatening him for years. The incident took place in front of the couple’s former home, which was burned down due to another alleged hate crime.
Tristan explained that their former neighbour, believed to be Sigfredo Alvarez Ceja, approached them, shouting homophobic slurs before raising his gun and firing at the couple. The shot ended the actor’s life at the age of 59 years old. Tristan also claimed that the couple had received many death threats in the past due to their relationship. While they’ve reported these threats to the authorities, nothing has been done to protect the couple.
Fans of the voice artist are mourning Jonathan’s death and are angry over media outlets framing the incident as just an argument gone wrong. On social media, people are speaking out, saying, “This hate crime is why Pride Month exists in the first place.” Others share frustration towards the police, pointing to the star’s husband’s statement. They argued that the tragedy was preventable.
The Native American actor was best known for his work in “King of the Hill” as John Redcorn and his acting role in “Parks and Recreation”. His performances brought humour, depth, and authenticity to Native animated and live-action TV roles. He also performed with The Red Corn Band, blending music and cultural storytelling. The artist was admired for his talent, warmth, and dedication to improving the representation of Indigenous people in media.
Jonathan was known to be a man who was proud of his roots and spread warmth and kindness to anyone he met. His legacy will live on through his husband and the people who supported him over the years. We extend our condolences to the cherished actor’s family and know he will forever be remembered.
Here is Tristan’s full statement:
Source: Facebook
Zaima Humaria contributed to this article
