Ron Cephas Jones, renowned for his acclaimed performances on the popular TV drama “This Is Us,” has sadly passed away at the age of 66. His manager, Dan Spilo, confirmed the news of his demise.
Jones gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of William Hill in “This Is Us,” where he depicted a multifaceted character dealing with terminal cancer, substance addiction, and bisexuality, and reconnecting with his son, played by Sterling K. Brown. Notably, he secured two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2018 and 2020, out of his four consecutive nominations from 2017 to 2020.
His acting prowess extended beyond “This Is Us,” as he featured in other television series like “Mr. Robot,” “The Get Down,” and “Luke Cage.” Moreover, his filmography included roles in movies such as “Half Nelson,” “Across the Universe,” “Dog Days,” and “Dolemite Is My Name.” Apart from his on-screen endeavors, Jones also showcased his talent as a stage actor both on and off Broadway. Notably, he received a Tony Award nomination in 2022 for his role as Montrellous in the play “Clyde’s.”
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jones enjoyed a special bond with his daughter, Jasmine Cephas Jones. The duo made history by becoming the first father-daughter pair to win Emmys in the same year. In 2020, Jasmine secured an Emmy for her performance in the Quibi series “#FreeRayshawn.” This achievement deeply moved Jones, who expressed his pride and joy in witnessing his daughter’s success.
Jones faced health challenges, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which led to a double-lung transplant in May 2020. Despite his health struggles, he demonstrated resilience and determination during his recovery process, relearning basic functions like breathing, eating, and walking. The New York Times reported on his journey to regain his health.
Sterling K. Brown, his co-star from “This Is Us,” paid tribute to him on Instagram, acknowledging the impact Jones had on his life. Brown emphasized how Jones’ real-life character resonated with his on-screen roles, and he expressed his sadness at the loss.
Dan Fogelman, the creator of “This Is Us,” also shared heartfelt sentiments about Jones’ passing. Fogelman praised Jones as an exceptional actor and a wonderful individual, recalling their time working together on the show and the genuine connections they shared.
The entertainment industry has lost a remarkable talent in Ron Cephas Jones, leaving behind a legacy of outstanding performances and meaningful connections