Breaking: ‘The Wire’ and ‘It: Chapter Two’ Star James Ransone

December 22, 2025 – Hollywood is mourning the sudden loss of actor James Ransone, best known for his unforgettable role as Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Wire and as adult Eddie Kaspbrak in the blockbuster horror sequel It: Chapter Two. Ransone was found dead on Friday, December 19, at age 46.

According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office, the manner of death has been ruled a suicide by hanging. No foul play is suspected, and the case remains open pending further investigation. The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call at a residence, where they conducted a death investigation.

The news broke over the weekend, sending shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among fans who remembered Ransone’s raw, intense performances.

A Career Defined by Memorable, Edgy Roles

Born James Finley Ransone III on June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland—the same city that served as the gritty backdrop for The Wire—Ransone grew up in a challenging environment that later informed his authentic portrayals of troubled characters.

He attended the Carver Center for Arts and Technology in Towson, Maryland, before briefly studying at the School of Visual Arts in New York. His early roles included appearances in shows like Law & Order, Third Watch, and the controversial film Ken Park (2002).

Ransone’s breakout came in 2003 with Season 2 of The Wire, where he played Ziggy Sobotka, the impulsive, self-destructive son of a union leader entangled in the Baltimore docks’ criminal underworld. His portrayal of Ziggy’s downward spiral—culminating in a tragic act of violence—earned widespread praise for its vulnerability and intensity.

He reunited with The Wire creator David Simon for the 2008 HBO miniseries Generation Kill, playing real-life Marine Cpl. Josh Ray Person. Other notable TV credits include Treme, Bosch, Low Winter Sun, Hawaii Five-0, SEAL Team, and a recent guest spot on Natasha Lyonne’s Poker Face in June 2025.

In film, Ransone became a horror staple. He starred as the deputy in Sinister (2012) and reprised the role (now as lead) in Sinister 2 (2015). He collaborated with Spike Lee on Inside Man (2006), Red Hook Summer (2012), and Oldboy (2013). Additional credits include the indie hit Tangerine (2015), Mr. Right (2015), In a Valley of Violence (2016), and roles in both The Black Phone (2021) and its 2025 sequel Black Phone 2.

His most mainstream exposure came in 2019’s It: Chapter Two, where he played the hypochondriac adult Eddie Kaspbrak opposite stars like Jessica Chastain, James McAvoy, Bill Hader, and Bill Skarsgård.

Personal Struggles and Legacy

Ransone was open about his past battles, including heroin addiction, from which he achieved sobriety in the late 2000s. In interviews, he credited acting with giving him purpose after personal hardships.

In 2021, he publicly alleged childhood sexual abuse by a former tutor, sharing his story on social media and reporting it to authorities.

He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee (sometimes referred to as Jamie McPhee in reports), and their two young children. McPhee has reportedly linked a fundraiser for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in her social media bio following the tragedy.

Tributes Pour In

The entertainment world reacted swiftly with grief. HBO issued a statement honoring Ransone’s contributions to The Wire and other projects. Director Spike Lee posted on social media: “Rest In Peace To My Dear Brother, MR. JAMES RANSONE.”

The Wire creator David Simon shared a silent tribute on Bluesky with a photo of the actor. Fans and colleagues flooded social media with memories of his “unique” talent and kindness.

One co-star described him as “a unique actor that I was continuously impressed and inspired by.”

A Note on Mental Health

Ransone’s passing underscores the ongoing mental health challenges faced by many in the industry and beyond. If you or someone you know is struggling, resources are available: In the US, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.