James Ransone, the Baltimore-born character actor who broke out as Ziggy Sobotka on HBO’s The Wire and later appeared in It: Chapter Two and The Black Phone, was found dead in Los Angeles on December 19, 2025. Authorities later determined the 46-year-old actor died by suicide, according to official records. He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two children, Jack and Violet, and tributes from friends, collaborators and fans have poured in while a fundraiser for his family continues to draw donations.
Medical Examiner Confirms Suicide
Online records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner list Ransone’s manner of death as suicide, as reported by TMZ. That same local reporting indicates the records list the method as hanging and that officers responded to a residential call before concluding no foul play was suspected. Confirmation of his death and the medical examiner’s ruling has also been carried by national outlets including AP News.
Family Reaction And Fundraiser
In the days after his death, Ransone’s widow shared a private tribute on social media, and friends and colleagues quickly organized financial support for the family. A GoFundMe campaign titled “Jamie, Jack, and Violet” shows $249,034 raised toward a $300,000 goal, with more than 1.3K donations listed on the fundraiser page, according to GoFundMe.
Career And Colleagues Remember His Range
Ransone spent more than two decades as a dependable character actor, earning notice on The Wire and in films that ranged from Tangerine to recent horror hits, a career outlined in an obituary from The Guardian. Directors and co-stars, including a number of filmmakers he worked with over the years, have posted condolences on social media and recalled his blunt charm and the vulnerability he brought to difficult roles. Further reporting on his life and work appears in coverage from AP News.
Where To Get Help
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available 24/7 by calling or texting 988 or by chatting at 988lifeline.org. These services provide confidential support and can connect callers with local resources.
