James Ransone (1979–2025): Remembering a Versatile Actor and His Legacy

James Ransone—a versatile character actor known for his unforgettable turn as Ziggy Sobotka in The Wire and memorable roles in It: Chapter Two and other films—has died at the age of 46. His death, ruled a suicide by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, has stunned fans and colleagues around the world and sparked heartfelt tributes highlighting his humanity, talent, and the challenges he faced in his life.
— New York Post

In this post, we honor his life, highlight his career achievements, and reflect on the importance of compassionate conversations around mental health.

---

A Storied Career in Television and Film

Born June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland, James Finley Ransone III trained as an actor before rising to prominence in television and film.
— Wikipedia

---

Breakthrough: The Wire

Ransone’s breakthrough role came as Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in the second season of HBO’s critically acclaimed crime drama The Wire. His portrayal of the troubled, charismatic dockworker’s son resonated deeply with audiences, bringing both humor and heartbreak to the series.
— NBC Chicago

---

Subsequent Roles

In addition to The Wire, Ransone built a diverse filmography including:

• Generation Kill (HBO miniseries)
• Sinister and Sinister 2 (horror franchise)
• Tangerine (indie drama)
• It: Chapter Two (2019), where he played adult Eddie Kaspbrak
• The Black Phone and its sequel Black Phone II
• Guest appearances on Poker Face, Bosch, Treme, Cinema Express, and more

Ransone’s versatility allowed him to move across genres—from gritty drama to horror and comedy—while leaving a distinct mark in every role.

---

Personal Life and Struggles

James Ransone was more than the characters he played—he was a husband and father. He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two children, Jack and Violet. In a touching social media tribute, McPhee shared that her husband “gave me the greatest gifts,” speaking to the deep love of their family.
— Mint

Ransone was also candid about the personal challenges he faced. In 2021, he publicly disclosed surviving sexual abuse by a former tutor during his youth—an experience he linked to subsequent struggles with addiction and mental health. He achieved sobriety in his late 20s and spoke openly about those battles, offering an honest glimpse into the difficulties he faced behind the scenes.
— NBC Chicago

---

Tragic Passing and Response

According to official records, the actor died by suicide in Los Angeles on December 19, 2025. The cause was listed as hanging, and the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the manner of death.
— New York Post

News of his passing prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and peers:

• The Wire co-star Wendell Pierce expressed sorrow and regret for not being there for him in his struggle.
  — New York Post
• His widow’s tribute and a GoFundMe campaign were meant to help support his family in the wake of the loss.
  — New York Post
• Acts of kindness and bravery from his earlier life—such as a former neighbor’s testimony that Ransone once intervened to stop a sexual assault—highlight the complexity and compassion behind the actor’s life story.
  — New York Post

---

Tributes from Hollywood

Fellow actors paid heartfelt public tributes, remembering Ransone as genuine, inspiring, and “one of the realest.” Celebrated names including Channing Tatum, Sean Baker, Spike Lee, and Jack Dylan Grazer spoke about his warmth, talent, and indelible influence in both their lives and their work.
— Mint

---

A Reminder on Mental Health Awareness

While the entertainment industry and fans mourn the loss of James Ransone, his death also brings attention to the importance of mental health support. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources such as crisis hotlines and counseling services are available worldwide.

Talking openly about mental health, trauma, and healing—topics Ransone himself publicly discussed—remains essential to breaking stigma and providing hope to others.
— NBC Chicago

---

Remembering James Ransone

James Ransone lived as deeply and authentically off screen as he acted on it. His talent brought memorable characters to life, his honesty helped others feel less alone, and his humanity touched many. Though taken too soon, his legacy remains through the art he created and the lives he influenced.

Rest in peace, James Ransone (1979–2025).