Emmy-winning actor Ron Cephas Jones, known for playing the role of William Hill on long-running NBC drama This Is Us, has passed away at the age of 66.
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A representative confirmed the actor's death on Saturday, August 19 in a statement to People. "Beloved and award-winning actor Ron Cephas Jones has passed away at the age of 66 due to a long-standing pulmonary issue."
"Throughout the course of his career, his warmth, beauty, generosity, kindness and heart were felt by anyone who had the good fortune of knowing him," the statement continued. "He began his career at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe and his love for the stage was present throughout his entire career, including his recent Tony nominated and Drama Desk Award winning performance for his role in Clyde's on Broadway."
"Ron's inner-beauty and soul was evident to the huge audience from his multi-Emmy award-winning performance on This is Us. He is survived by his daughter Jasmine Cephas Jones," the statement concluded.
On This Is Us, Jones played the birth father of Sterling K. Brown's character, Randall Pearson. He landed two Emmy Awards for playing William Hill in 2018 and 2020. His daughter Jasmine also landed an Emmy Award in 2020, becoming the first year a father and daughter landed awards in the same year. Also an accomplished actor, Jasmine is best known for being part of the original cast of the Broadway musical Hamilton.
Many of Jones's former co-stars took to social media to react to his passing and pay tribute to how special it was to work with him.
"Life imitated art today, and one of the most wonderful people the world has ever seen is no longer with us, Brown posted on Instagram. "@cephasjaz has passed away, and the world is a little less bright. Brother, you are loved. And you will be missed. Keep them laughing in the next phase of existence, and I'll see you when I get there."
Mandy Moore, who played the young and old versions of Brown's adopted mother on This Is Us, also posted a tribute on Instagram.
"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...I will treasure all of the moments forever. Even though he wasn't around set as much as we all wished, he was such an intrinsic part of the fabric of the show, it's like he was always there. I'll never forget how special it was to film this particular episode and welcome him back to say a proper goodbye to our TIU family and the whole experience. I am just so sad. My thoughts and love are with Jasmine and his family and friends."
Chrissy Metz, who played Brown's sister in the series, also paid her respects on Instagram.
"Ron, thank you for brightening every room you walked into. I'll never forget and have been changed by your kind heart, amazing spirit, immeasurable talent and beautiful smile. May your transition be full of light and peace. Sending all of my love to Jasmine & his loved ones during this time. You are truly the coolest cat."
