James Ransone

James Finley Ransone III, the American actor widely admired for his intense and emotionally grounded performances on television and film, including his breakout role as Ziggy Sobotka on HBO's "The Wire," died by suicide on December 19, 2025. He was 46.

Ransone was born June 2, 1979, in Baltimore. He was the son of Joyce (née Peterson) and James Finley Ransone II. Raised in the Baltimore area, he developed an early interest in performance and visual art, interests that would shape his career.

He attended the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology in Towson, Maryland, a selective public magnet high school with a focus on arts education. He later refined his creative skills at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

Ransone first gained national attention in 2003 with his portrayal of Ziggy Sobotka in the second season of "The Wire." His performance as the troubled and volatile dockworker was widely praised for its emotional honesty and complexity.

Over the next two decades, he built a steady and respected career across television and film. His notable roles included Corporal Josh Ray Person in HBO's "Generation Kill," the Deputy in the horror films "Sinister" and "Sinister 2," and the adult version of Eddie Kaspbrak in "It: Chapter Two." He also appeared in "Tangerine," "Bosch," "Law & Order," "Hawaii Five-0," "Poker Face," "The Black Phone," and the upcoming sequel "The Black Phone 2."

Mya Taylor, who co-starred with Ransone in "Tangerine," posted a tribute that included, " Such a sweet and funny guy. He helped me deal with fame. He could light up a room with his smile and dimples."

In interviews during his lifetime, Ransone spoke candidly about surviving childhood sexual abuse and about his recovery from heroin addiction. He described acting as both a refuge and a means of survival, using his work to explore vulnerability and human complexity.

Ransone is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two children, Jack, 6, and Violet, 4. In a public tribute, McPhee described her husband as her partner "forever" and emphasized his deep devotion to their children.

By Legacy News Staff

If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, calling 800-273-8255, texting HOME to 741741, or accessing the online chat service. Formerly the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, the network provides free, confidential support for people in crisis or emotional distress, 24/7 year-round. You can also visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources for more information.

(Image: Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images)