James Ransone, ‘The Wire’ Star, Dies by Suicide at 46
James Ransone, the acclaimed American actor known for his breakout role as Ziggy Sobotka in HBO’s The Wire, has tragically died at age 46, with the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruling the cause as suicide by hanging.
Born on June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland, Ransone built a diverse career across film, television, and theater, often portraying complex, edgy characters in gritty dramas and horror thrillers.
His death on December 19, 2025, has sparked widespread tributes from fans and industry peers, underscoring his lasting impact despite personal battles with addiction and trauma.
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Early Life and Entry into Acting, Ransone grew up in Baltimore, initially studying theater before switching to fine arts, graduating in 1997.
His screen debut came in 2001 with a minor role in The American Astronaut, followed by the provocative drama Ken Park in 2002.
These early indie projects showcased his raw intensity, setting the stage for his rise in prestige television.
Breakthrough on Television, Ransone’s career exploded with 12 episodes as the chaotic Ziggy Sobotka in The Wire (2003), a role that captured Baltimore’s underbelly and earned him cult status.
He followed with the miniseries Generation Kill (2008), playing Corporal Josh Ray Person across seven episodes, further cementing his reputation for authentic ensemble work.
Later TV highlights included Treme (2011), Low Winter Sun (2013), Bosch (2016), and a recent guest spot as Juice in Poker Face (2025).
Film Career Highlights, Ransone appeared in over 40 films, blending indie darlings with mainstream hits. Key roles include Deputy So-and-So in Sinister (2012) and its sequel, Eddie Kaspbrak in It: Chapter Two (2019), and Max in The Black Phone (2021) plus its 2025 sequel cameo.
Other standouts: Inside Man (2006) with Denzel Washington, Tangerine (2015), and Small Engine Repair (2021), where he also originated the stage role in 2013.
Personal Struggles and LegacyRansone was open about his heroin addiction and past traumas, which contrasted his professional ascent.
He leaves behind wife Jamie McPhee and two children, with no public details on prior mental health disclosures beyond addiction talks.
Tributes praise his talent in projects like Generation Kill and horror franchises, noting his influence on character-driven storytelling.
His work in theater, such as Small Engine Repair, and bass playing in the metal band Early Man added depth to his multifaceted persona.
