Renowned Actor Ron Cephas Jones, Beloved for His Role in “This Is Us,” Passes Away at 66
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the entertainment industry bids farewell to the immensely talented actor, Ron Cephas Jones, who breathed life into the character of William “Shakespeare” Hill in the critically acclaimed NBC series “This Is Us.” The veteran stage actor, whose stellar performances earned him two Emmy Awards, succumbed to a longstanding pulmonary issue at the age of 66, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
Jones’ representative, Kaitlyn Horton, confirmed the news of his passing, revealing that the actor had been battling a pulmonary ailment for an extended period. Despite his courageous fight, Jones, whose warmth, kindness, and generosity were as well-known as his acting prowess, succumbed to the illness on Saturday evening.
The actor’s journey was one marked by resilience and passion for his craft. In 2020, he underwent a double lung transplant, a procedure necessitated by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Despite the challenges posed by his health, Jones exhibited remarkable strength, spending nearly two months in a Los Angeles hospital. His determination to continue performing even after such a significant health setback was a testament to his unwavering dedication to his art.
Jones’ portrayal of William Hill in “This Is Us” resonated deeply with audiences. The character, a long-lost father seeking redemption and connection with his son Randall Pearson, portrayed by Sterling K. Brown, became an integral part of the show’s narrative. The depth and authenticity he brought to the role earned him widespread acclaim, including two Emmy Awards for Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2018 and 2020.
His impact extended far beyond television screens. Jones, a theater veteran, graced Broadway stages with his presence, showcasing his talent in various roles. His love for the stage never wavered, even after his health struggles, and he continued to captivate audiences with his performances. His dedication to the craft earned him a Tony Award nomination and a 2022 Drama Desk Award for his role in Lynn Nottage’s “Clyde’s.”
The news of Jones’ passing elicited an outpouring of grief from the entertainment community. Sterling K. Brown, his co-star in “This Is Us,” expressed his deep sadness on social media, describing Jones as “one of the most wonderful people the world has ever seen.” Mandy Moore, who played his adoptive mother on the show, remembered him as “pure magic as a human and an artist,” emphasizing his pivotal role in shaping the series’ narrative.
Jones’ career spanned both the small and big screens. He made memorable appearances in television series such as “Mr. Robot,” “Luke Cage,” and “Lisey’s Story,” showcasing his versatility as an actor. His film credits included notable works like “Half Nelson” (2006) with Ryan Gosling and “Dolemite Is My Name” (2019) with Eddie Murphy.
Born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Jones discovered his passion for theater during his time at Ramapo College. His breakout role came in 1994 when he starred in playwright Cheryl West’s drama, “Holiday Heart.” He spent the ensuing years dedicated to the theater, often gracing off-Broadway productions with his talent.
Jones’ legacy goes beyond his artistic contributions; he leaves behind a daughter, Jasmine Cephas Jones, who has followed in his footsteps and made a name for herself in the entertainment industry.
As the world mourns the loss of Ron Cephas Jones, it is not just a celebrated actor that we remember, but a soul whose kindness, resilience, and immeasurable talent left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. His performances will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and fellow artists alike.
