Remembering Ron Cephas Jones: ‘This Is Us’ Cast and Creator Share Heartfelt Tributes for a Beloved Icon
The entertainment world, and especially the tightly-knit family of the critically acclaimed NBC series This Is Us, is deeply saddened by the profound loss of Ron Cephas Jones. The immensely talented actor, celebrated for his iconic portrayal of William Hill in the beloved drama, passed away at the age of 66. His representative confirmed the news to HollywoodLife on August 19, revealing that his death was “due to a long-standing pulmonary issue.” Ron had bravely battled chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for years, undergoing a double lung transplant in 2020, a testament to his resilience and unwavering spirit in the face of health challenges.
Ron Cephas Jones’s passing leaves a significant void, not just within the industry but in the hearts of millions who were touched by his profound performances. As news of his death spread, an outpouring of love and admiration emerged from his co-stars and the show’s creator, reflecting the deep respect and affection they held for him. Each tribute painted a vivid picture of a remarkable artist and an even more remarkable human being, highlighting his grace, talent, and infectious warmth. Their heartfelt messages serve as a poignant reminder of the indelible mark Ron left on their lives and careers.
Sterling K. Brown Remembers His On-Screen Father
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Sterling K. Brown, who played Randall Pearson, Ron’s beloved biological son on This Is Us, shared a particularly touching tribute on Instagram. His words resonated deeply with fans, capturing the essence of their unique on-screen dynamic and real-life camaraderie. “Life imitated art today, and one of the most wonderful people the world has ever seen is no longer with us. @cephasjaz has passed away, and the world is a little less bright,” Sterling penned, his grief palpable. “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.”
The bond between William and Randall was one of the emotional cornerstones of This Is Us, a relationship that blossomed from a tentative introduction into one of television’s most poignant father-son narratives. William, Randall’s biological father, entered Randall’s life unexpectedly, bringing with him a rich tapestry of experiences and profound wisdom. Despite his early passing in season 1, William remained an integral and beloved member of the Pearson family, frequently appearing in flashbacks and spiritual guidance moments throughout the show’s entire run. Ron’s masterful performance earned him two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series, solidifying his status as a true acting luminary and a fan favorite. His ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and depth left an enduring impact on viewers and critics alike.
Beyond the script, Sterling and Ron shared a genuine connection that translated powerfully onto the screen. Their mutual respect and collaborative spirit were evident in every scene they shared, enriching the narrative of This Is Us and providing audiences with unforgettable moments of raw emotion and profound understanding. Sterling’s tribute speaks to a bond that transcended their professional collaboration, echoing the sentiments of many who had the privilege of knowing or working with Ron Cephas Jones.
Mandy Moore Honors a “Pure Magic” Artist
Mandy Moore, who beautifully portrayed the Pearson family matriarch, Rebecca Pearson, throughout This Is Us‘s six-season run, also shared her profound grief. She posted a poignant photo on her Instagram message, capturing a tender moment of her embracing Ron in a scene from the incredibly emotional season 6 penultimate episode, “The Train.” This particular episode served as a farewell to Rebecca, where she encountered beloved figures from her past, including William, as she transitioned from life. Mandy’s message read:
“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. Love you, @cephasjaz.”
Mandy’s words underscore Ron’s profound impact, even when his character’s arc meant he wasn’t always physically present on set. His presence, however, was always felt, a testament to the indelible mark William Hill left on the narrative and the actors who brought it to life. The emotional weight of “The Train” episode was amplified by Ron’s return, providing a beautiful and cathartic farewell that resonated deeply with both the cast and the millions of viewers who cherished the show. His performance in that scene, as in all his scenes, was a masterclass in subtlety and heartfelt emotion.
Chrissy Metz Remembers His Bright Spirit
Chrissy Metz, known for her role as Randall’s sister Kate Pearson, also penned a deeply moving message on her Instagram about her beloved co-star. Her tribute highlighted Ron’s vibrant personality and the positive energy he brought to every interaction. “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,” Chrissy’s message read.
She continued, “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.” Chrissy’s heartfelt words paint a picture of a man who was not only a gifted actor but also a source of light and warmth for those around him. Her tribute speaks volumes about the personal impact Ron had on his colleagues, extending beyond their professional relationship to a genuine appreciation for his character and spirit.
Chris Sullivan Mourns a “Generous and Compassionate Heart”
Chris Sullivan, who played Kate’s husband, Toby Damon, in the acclaimed NBC series, also shared his sorrow regarding the loss of his esteemed colleague. Chris conveyed his grief in a brief but profoundly heartbreaking Instagram post, highlighting Ron’s innate kindness and generosity. His message resonated with the shared sentiment of loss felt across the cast.
“I cannot believe he is gone! It doesn’t seem possible. He was such a generous and compassionate heart. I am so grateful for the time we spent together. #RIPRCJ,” Chris captioned a photo of him and Ron. This simple yet powerful statement reflects the shock and deep sadness shared by many who knew Ron. It underscores the profound appreciation for his character and the positive influence he had on his fellow actors, both on and off the set.
Dan Fogelman Remembers a “Perfect” Actor and Man
Dan Fogelman, the visionary creator of This Is Us, also responded to the heartbreaking news of Ron’s death on Twitter (now known as X). Fogelman’s tribute was deeply personal, emphasizing not only Ron’s unparalleled acting talent but also his remarkable qualities as a human being. Dan called Ron’s passing a “massive loss,” echoing the sentiment felt throughout the entire production team and fan base. He continued, “Ron was the best of the best – on screen, on stage, and in real life. The coolest. The easiest hang and laugh. And my God: what an actor. I don’t think I ever changed a single take of his in a cut… because everything he did was perfect…”
I first got to know Ron at the start of This Is Us, a magical time when it felt like we were all being shot out of a cannon. He was always steady, always grateful – even as the madness swirled around us.
He loved actors.
He LOVED his daughter.
And we loved him. All of Us.
— Dan Fogelman (@Dan_Fogelman) August 20, 2023
Dan followed with another tweet, delving deeper into his personal reflections: “I first got to know Ron at the start of This Is Us, a magical time when it felt like we were all being shot out of a cannon. He was always steady, always grateful – even as the madness swirled around us. He loved actors. He LOVED his daughter. And we loved him. All of Us.” Fogelman’s words paint a picture of a man who remained grounded and appreciative amidst the whirlwind success of the show. His unwavering professionalism and genuine love for his craft and his family left an indelible impression on the show’s creator, who recognized Ron’s unique ability to elevate every scene he was in.
The creator’s remarks highlight Ron’s effortless brilliance, suggesting that his performances were so intrinsically perfect that they required no directorial intervention. This speaks volumes about his profound understanding of his character and his innate acting prowess. For Fogelman, Ron was more than just an actor; he was a calming, grateful presence during a period of immense growth and pressure, whose steady nature provided a vital anchor for the entire team.
A Legacy Beyond the Screen: Ron Cephas Jones’s Enduring Impact
While Ron Cephas Jones became a household name for his Emmy-winning role as William Hill, his illustrious career spanned decades and encompassed a wide range of memorable performances on stage, television, and film. Before charming audiences as Randall’s biological father, Ron was a respected figure in the theater community, earning accolades for his powerful stage presence and versatility. His television credits also included impactful roles in series such as *Mr. Robot* and *Luke Cage*, showcasing his ability to inhabit diverse characters with authenticity and depth.
His personal battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, culminating in a double lung transplant in 2020, never deterred his commitment to his craft. Despite his health struggles, Ron continued to deliver compelling performances, embodying resilience and grace. His ability to convey profound emotion, often with minimal dialogue, was a hallmark of his acting style, drawing viewers into the inner lives of his characters. He brought an unparalleled authenticity to William Hill, making the character’s journey of redemption, acceptance, and love one of the most cherished storylines in modern television history.
Ron Cephas Jones leaves behind a legacy defined by his extraordinary talent, his compassionate spirit, and the deep connections he forged with his colleagues and audiences. His contributions to storytelling, particularly through his nuanced portrayal of complex characters, will continue to inspire aspiring actors and resonate with fans for years to come. The collective tributes from the *This Is Us* cast and creator are a testament to the profound impact he had, not just as an actor, but as a cherished friend and mentor. He was, as Mandy Moore eloquently put it, “pure magic,” and his presence will be deeply missed but never forgotten.