Ron Cephas Jones, the actor best known for his roles in “This Is Us” and “Truth Be Told,” died on August 19, 2023, at the age of 66. Jones died due to a “long-standing pulmonary issue,” a representative for the actor confirmed to PEOPLE on Saturday.
Jones was born in Paterson, New Jersey, in 1957. He began his acting career in the early 1990s, appearing in several Broadway productions, including “Prometheus Bound ” and “Clyde’s” His television debut in 1996, with a guest appearance on the popular show “Law & Order.”
Jones’s breakthrough role came in 2015, when he was cast as Romero in the Showtime series “Mr. Robot.”
In 2016, Jones was cast as William Hill in the NBC drama series “This Is Us.” He played the biological father of Randall Pearson (Sterling K. Brown). Jones received critical acclaim for his performance on This Is Us and received a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2018 and 2020 for his performance.
Jones was a versatile actor who could play a wide range of characters. He was also a gifted singer and dancer. His death is a major loss to the acting community.
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How the News of Death Has Impacted Other Actors
The news of Ron Cephas Jones’s death has had a profound impact on his fellow actors. Many have taken to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to his talent.
“Life imitated art today, and one of the most wonderful people the world has ever seen is no longer with us,” wrote Sterling K. Brown, who starred alongside Jones in “This Is Us.” “He was a brilliant actor and a wonderful human being. He will be deeply missed.”
“Oh no!!! Man …..thisi hurts me deep,” tweeted Viola Davis. “You lived your life out loud my friend… You’ve earned your rest. Wish we has you longer.”
“Getting to know and work with Ron on the wild ride of “This Is Us” was the greatest gift – he was pure magic as a human and an artist,” wrote Mandy Moore. “I will treasure all of the moments forever.”
Ron Cephas Jones’ Legacy
Ron Cephas Jones was a talented actor who brought joy and laughter to audiences around the world. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and fans. His legacy will live on through his work.
In addition to his acting, Jones was also a passionate advocate for social justice. He was a vocal supporter of the Black Lives Matter movement, and he often used his platform to speak out against racism and discrimination.
Jones was a true artist and a force for good in the world. His death is a major loss, but his legacy will live on for generations to come.
