James Ransone: Death, Movies, TV Shows , Net Worth and Everything You Need to Know

James Ransone has recently become a trending name on Google, with thousands of people searching for phrases like “James Ransone death,” “James Ransone cause of death,” and “TV star dead at 46.” The sudden spike has led to widespread confusion, misinformation, and concern among fans.

This article clearly explains who James Ransone is, addresses the death, and provides verified details about his movies, TV shows, personal life, and net worth — all in one place.

James Ransone Death Cause and Personal Struggles

James Ransone, the versatile character actor best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in Season 2 of HBO’s The Wire, has died. He was 46.

Ransone died on Friday, December 19, 2025, in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed his death and stated it is being investigated as a suicide. According to the examiner, the cause of death was hanging, with the location listed as a shed. No foul play is suspected, and the case remains open.

James Ransone was open about his personal struggles throughout his life. By age 27, he developed a heroin addiction and accumulated $30,000 in debt, but he became sober shortly afterward. In May 2021, he revealed on Instagram that he had been sexually abused by his math tutor in 1992. Ransone had reported these allegations to the Baltimore County police in March 2020, but after an investigation, no charges were filed.

The Baltimore County School System was notified of the allegations; officials acknowledged being informed of a “concern” but did not specify any actions taken. Despite the investigation, the matter was closed without further legal action.

Tributes poured in following news of his death, including from longtime collaborators and fans who described him as a “magnetic force” and a fearless performer. Spike Lee wrote, “Rest in peace to my dear brother.”

Ransone is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two young children, Jack and Violet, whose lives he largely kept private.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Must Read: James Van Der Beek Says Cancer Became the Most Life-Changing Moment of His Life

Who is James Ransone?

James Finley Ransone III was born on June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland. He was the son of Joyce Ransone and James Finley Ransone II, a Vietnam War veteran. Ransone grew up in Maryland, where The Wire was later set. He studied at the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology in Towson. He later attended the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan for one year.

James Ransone Movies and TV Shows

James Ransone began his acting career in 2001 with small film and television roles. In 2002, he co-starred in Larry Clark’s controversial drama Ken Park. His breakout came in 2003 as Ziggy Sobotka on HBO’s The Wire. He appeared in 12 episodes, delivering one of the series’ most memorable performances.

In 2006, he worked with Spike Lee in the heist film Inside Man. He starred as Corporal Josh Ray Person in the 2008 miniseries Generation Kill. Ransone continued collaborating with HBO on How to Make It in America and Treme. In 2012, he appeared in the acclaimed drama Starlet.

That same year, he entered horror cinema with Sinister. He reprised and expanded his role as the lead in Sinister 2. In 2015, he earned praise for his role in Tangerine. He later played Eddie Arceneaux in Bosch.

In 2019, Ransone portrayed adult Eddie Kaspbrak in It Chapter Two. He starred as Max in The Black Phone and its 2025 sequel. His final television appearance was on Poker Face in 2025.

James Ransone Wife

James Ransone was married to Jamie McPhee, a private individual who avoided the Hollywood spotlight. Friends called her “Skipper,” describing her as a stabilizing and grounding force in his life.
She supported Ransone through personal struggles, including addiction recovery and past trauma.
The couple reportedly married around 2008, possibly at Rosewood Beach on Lake Michigan, though details remain unconfirmed.

They prioritized a quiet, family-oriented life away from red carpets and media attention. They had two children: son Jack and daughter Violet, kept largely out of the public eye. Following Ransone’s death on December 19, 2025, Jamie posted an emotional Instagram tribute.

She wrote: “Thank you for giving me the greatest gifts—you, Jack, and Violet. We are forever.” Days earlier, she shared a fundraiser for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), raising awareness.

A GoFundMe organized by a friend raised tens of thousands to support Jamie and the children.
Before Jamie, Ransone briefly dated actress Chloë Sevigny around 2008.
His marriage to Jamie remained his most enduring relationship.

James Ransone’s Net Worth

At the time of his death on December 19, 2025, James Ransone’s net worth was $2–4 million. Celebrity Net Worth updated it posthumously to $3 million. His income came from acting in TV, film, and occasional voice roles. He never reached A-list blockbuster status or commanded top-tier salaries.

Consistent work, residuals, and conventions provided him solid earnings over two decades. Ransone maintained a low-profile financial life. No major assets or debts were publicly disclosed after his death.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did James Ransone die?

James Ransone died by suicide on Friday, December 19, 2025, at age 46 in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed the cause as hanging, with no foul play suspected.

What happened to James Ransone?

James Ransone, the acclaimed character actor known for The Wire and horror films, tragically took his own life on December 19, 2025. He had been open in the past about struggles with addiction, childhood trauma, and mental health issues. His death shocked fans and colleagues, who paid tribute to his talent and kindness.

Who was James Ransone in The Black Phone?

In The Black Phone (2021) and its sequel Black Phone 2 (2025), James Ransone played Max, the eccentric, cocaine-addicted brother of the serial killer “The Grabber” (Ethan Hawke). His memorable performance as the conspiracy-obsessed but ultimately heroic character became a fan favorite in the Scott Derrickson horror thriller.

What role did James Ransone play in It Chapter Two?

James Ransone portrayed the adult Eddie Kaspbrak in It Chapter Two (2019), one of the grown-up members of the Losers’ Club fighting Pennywise. His anxious, hypochondriac take on the character—opposite Jack Dylan Grazer’s younger Eddie—was widely praised for capturing the essence of the Stephen King story.

What was James Ransone’s most famous role in The Wire?

James Ransone is best remembered for playing Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in Season 2 of HBO’s The Wire (2003). His raw, heartbreaking portrayal of the impulsive, self-destructive dockworker—culminating in a tragic downfall—remains one of the show’s most iconic supporting performances.

Who is Jamie McPhee?

Jamie McPhee (sometimes nicknamed “Skipper”) was James Ransone’s wife. The couple married around 2008 in a private ceremony and kept their relationship largely out of the public eye. She was described as a loving, grounding presence in his life and supported him through personal challenges.

Did James Ransone have children?

Yes, James Ransone and Jamie McPhee had two young children: a son named Jack and a daughter named Violet. The family maintained a very private life, and Jamie shared emotional tributes after his passing, calling their children “the greatest gifts.”

Is James Ransone the same as the artist James Ransome?

No, they are different people. James Ransone (with an “o”) was the actor who passed away in 2025. James Ransome (with an “m”) is a living children’s book illustrator known for works like The Creation and Uncle Jed’s Barbershop. The similar names often cause confusion in searches.