The entertainment world is in mourning following the tragic death of American actor James Ransone, best known for his portrayal of the volatile dock worker Ziggy Sobotka in the seminal HBO series The Wire. He was 46 years old.
Details of a Tragic Loss
According to the Los Angeles Medical Examiner, Ransone died in an apparent suicide on Friday, December 21, 2025. Police were called to his residence, where an investigation was carried out. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected. The news of his passing was publicly confirmed by the outlet TMZ this Sunday.
The Baltimore-born actor is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two children, as reported by the New York Post. The sudden loss has sent shockwaves through the industry and among fans who admired his intense and memorable performances.
A Prolific Career on Screen
While Ziggy Sobotka in The Wire (2003) remains his most iconic role—earning him critical acclaim across 12 episodes—Ransone enjoyed a diverse and lengthy career. His television work was extensive and varied:
- Corporal Josh Ray Person in the HBO miniseries Generation Kill (2008).
- A recurring role in the comedy series How to Make It in America (2010).
- Nick in HBO's Treme (2011) and Damon Callis in AMC's Low Winter Sun (2013).
- Guest appearances in series like Law & Order, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, and, more recently, Poker Face.
His film career was equally notable. He made his movie debut in Spike Lee's Inside Man (2006) and later took on the role of adult Eddie Kaspbrak in It Chapter Two (2019). In 2021, he starred as Max in the supernatural horror hit The Black Phone, a role he briefly reprised for a cameo in the 2025 sequel, which became his final film credit.
A Legacy Remembered
James Ransone's death is a profound loss to the acting community. He was an actor capable of bringing a raw, unpredictable energy to every part, from tragic anti-heroes to comedic supports. His work on The Wire, a show revered for its gritty realism, cemented his place in television history. Colleagues and fans are remembering him for his unique talent and the compelling characters he brought to life.
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