Ron Cephas Jones – Emmy Award-winning actor from This Is Us
Ron Cephas Jones (1957–2023)
Ron Cephas Jones was an Emmy Award-winning American actor whose career spanned theater, television, and film. Born January 8, 1957, in Paterson, New Jersey, he grew up in the city and attended John F. Kennedy High School before graduating from Ramapo College in 1978, where he studied theater.
Jones became nationally recognized for his portrayal of William “Shakespeare” Hill, the biological father of Randall Pearson, on the NBC drama This Is Us. His deeply emotional performance earned him four consecutive Emmy nominations, with victories for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2018 and 2020.
His career extended well beyond This Is Us. Jones was a respected stage actor who performed extensively Off-Broadway and on Broadway. He appeared in productions including Richard III at The Public Theater and received a 2022 Tony Award nomination for his performance as Montrellous in Lynn Nottage’s Clyde’s.
His screen credits included Mr. Robot, Luke Cage, The Get Down, Truth Be Told, Half Nelson, and Dolemite Is My Name. His work was characterized by a powerful stage presence and an ability to bring emotional depth and humanity to his characters.
Jones also shared the distinction of being part of an Emmy-winning father-daughter pair. His daughter, Jasmine Cephas Jones, won an Emmy in 2020, the same year her father won his second Emmy.
Ron Cephas Jones died on August 19, 2023, at age 66. His death marked the loss of one of Paterson’s most accomplished actors, but his performances—particularly his memorable portrayal of William Hill—left a lasting legacy in American television and theater.
Paterson connection:
Born: January 8, 1957 — Paterson, New Jersey
Education: John F. Kennedy High School; Ramapo College
Profession: Actor
Best known for: William Hill in This Is Us
Emmy Awards: 2 wins, 4 nominations
Tony Award: 2022 nominee for Clyde’s
Died: August 19, 2023 — age 66