James Ransone was an American actor born on June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland. He appeared in credited film and television roles from the early 2000s until his death in December 2025. He became widely known for portraying Ziggy Sobotka in the HBO series The Wire and later appeared in films including Sinister, It Chapter Two, and The Black Phone.
Quick Profile
- Full Name: James Finley Ransone III
- Profession: Actor
- Date of Birth: June 2, 1979
- Date of Death: December 19, 2025
- Age at Death: 46 years
- Place of Birth: Baltimore, Maryland, United States
- Place of Death: Los Angeles, California, United States
- Nationality: American
- Years Active: 2001–2025
Early Life & Education
James Ransone grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, and attended the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology, where he studied theater.
He later attended the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan for one year, according to publicly documented education records.
Career Breakthrough – The Wire
In 2003, Ransone appeared as Ziggy Sobotka in season two of The Wire.
The role is listed in HBO’s official cast records and became one of the most discussed character arcs of the series.
Film Career
Ransone appeared in the feature film Sinister (2012), a credited role in a commercially released horror film.
He later portrayed the adult version of Eddie Kaspbrak in It Chapter Two (2019), a studio adaptation of Stephen King’s novel.
In 2021, Ransone appeared as Max in The Black Phone, followed by a credited appearance in The Black Phone 2 (2025). These roles are listed in official studio cast credits.
Television Work
In 2008, Ransone appeared as Corporal Josh Ray Person in the HBO miniseries Generation Kill.
He later held a series-regular role in the AMC series Low Winter Sun (2013), according to network cast listings.
Movies & TV Shows
- The Wire (2003) – Ziggy Sobotka
- Generation Kill (2008) – Cpl. Josh Ray Person
- Sinister (2012)
- It Chapter Two (2019) – Eddie Kaspbrak (Adult)
- The Black Phone (2021)
- The Black Phone 2 (2025)
- Tangerine (2015)
Personal Life
James Ransone was married to Jamie McPhee.
Health, Trauma & Public Statements
In 2021, Ransone publicly stated that he experienced childhood sexual abuse by a tutor and that he reported the abuse to police in 2020.
He also stated in interviews that he struggled with alcohol and heroin addiction before achieving sobriety.
Death
James Ransone died on December 19, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled his death a suicide, according to publicly released records and reports from major news organizations.
Net Worth
At the time of his death, James Ransone’s estimated net worth was reported between $1 million and $3 million, based on earnings from credited film and television roles.
Physical Measurements
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
- Weight: Not publicly documented
- Eye Color: Brown
- Hair Color: Brown
Social Media
- Instagram: @james.ransone
- IMDb: James Ransone (official filmography)
Trivia & Facts
- He attended the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology.
- He appeared in two HBO productions: The Wire and Generation Kill.
- He appeared in both Sinister films.
- He portrayed Eddie Kaspbrak in a major studio adaptation of It.
- His final credited film appearance was released in 2025.
FAQs
Who was James Ransone?
James Ransone was an American actor known for roles in The Wire, Generation Kill, It Chapter Two, and The Black Phone.
How did James Ransone die?
He died by suicide on December 19, 2025, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.
Who did James Ransone play in The Wire?
He played Ziggy Sobotka in season two of the HBO series.
Was James Ransone married?
Yes. He was married to Jamie McPhee.
