James Ransone, Star of ‘The Wire’ and ‘It Chapter Two,’ Dies at 46
The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of
James Ransone, the versatile actor best known for his standout role as Ziggy
Sobotka in HBO’s The Wire. Ransone was 46 years old.
LOS ANGELES — James Ransone, a character
actor celebrated for his ability to portray complex, troubled individuals, has
passed away. On Sunday, December 21, 2025, the Los Angeles County MedicalExaminer’s Office confirmed that the actor died by suicide. He was discovered
on Friday, December 19
.James Ransone, Star of ‘The Wire’ and ‘It Chapter Two,’ Dies at 46
A Career Defined by Range and Intensity
Born in Baltimore,
Maryland, Ransone rose to
prominence in the city that served as the backdrop for his breakout role. In
the second season of the critically acclaimed series The Wire, he delivered a haunting and
memorable performance as Ziggy Sobotka, a desperate young man caught in
the dangerous web of the Baltimore
docks.
Beyond his television success, Ransone became a
staple in the horror and thriller genres. He earned widespread praise for his
role as the adult Eddie Kaspbrak in It Chapter Two (2019) and for his recurring role
as Deputy "So-and-So" in the Sinister franchise.
Recent Projects and Legacy
At the time of his passing, Ransone remained
highly active in the industry. His most recent screen appearances include:
Colleagues and
creators have begun sharing tributes online. David Simon, creator of The Wire, remembered Ransone as a "fiercely talented
and deeply soulful actor" who brought a unique vulnerability to every
scene.
Mental Health Awareness
The news of Ransone’s death has prompted a renewed
conversation regarding mental health in the arts. In previous interviews, the
actor had been candid about his past struggles with addiction and the pressures
of the industry, often using his platform to advocate for authenticity and
recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. You can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org in the US and Canada, or call 111 in the UK. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
