Beloved This is Us Actor Ron Cephas Jones Passes Away at 66
Ron Cephas Jones, the talented actor known for his role in the hit TV show This is Us, has sadly passed away at the age of 66. His representative confirmed the news, stating that he succumbed to a prolonged lung problem. Jones, who won an Emmy for his portrayal of William Hill on the show, leaves behind a legacy of remarkable performances and a devoted fanbase.
During his career, it was evident to those who had the privilege of knowing him that Jones possessed a friendly, caring, and giving personality. He kickstarted his acting journey at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe and maintained a passion for performing on stage throughout his life. His dedication and talent earned him a Tony Award nomination and a Drama Desk Award for his role in Clyde’s on Broadway.
However, it was on the small screen where Jones truly captured hearts. The statement emphasized that his exceptional acting on This is Us showcased his wonderful personality and true self. He received multiple accolades for his outstanding work on the show, solidifying his status as a highly respected and beloved actor.
In a candid interview with The New York Times in 2021, Jones revealed that he had been battling chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, eventually undergoing a double lung transplant in 2020. His recovery was fueled by his desire to return to the stage, particularly after receiving a Tony Award nomination for his performance in Clyde’s on Broadway.
Jones’s resilience and talent were evident to his co-stars and producers, who supported him during a health crisis that arose on the final day of filming. In May 2020, he expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support during a challenging time.
Born on January 8, 1957, in Paterson, New Jersey, Ron Cephas Jones attended John F. Kennedy High School before graduating from Ramapo College. While initially interested in studying jazz, he shifted his focus to theater after landing the lead role in a production during his second year at Ramapo.
After completing his studies, Jones ventured to Los Angeles, working as a bus driver for the Southern California Rapid Transit District. He then explored various cities and went through personal ups and downs before returning to New York City in 1985.
It was at the Nuyorican Poets Café in Manhattan’s East Village that Jones found his footing and caught the attention of a casting director. Subsequently, he landed the lead role in the play Holiday Heart, which earned him critical acclaim.
Jones’s talent extended beyond the small screen, as he appeared in popular television shows like Mr. Robot, The Get Down, Luke Cage, and Truth Be Told. He also graced the silver screen with his performances in movies such as Half Nelson, Across the Universe, Glass Chin, The Holiday Calendar, Dog Days, and Dolmite Is My Name.
Ron Cephas Jones will be remembered not only for his exceptional acting skills but also for his warm-hearted nature. His legacy as a versatile and gifted performer will live on, and his loss leaves a void in the entertainment industry that will be hard to fill. Fans and colleagues alike mourn the passing of a true talent.
