James Ransone, ‘The Wire’ Actor Known for Ziggy Sobotka Role, Dies at 46

James Ransone, the versatile actor best remembered for his memorable portrayal of the troubled Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in HBO’s acclaimed series The Wire, has died at the age of 46.

According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, Ransone died on Friday, December 19, 2025, with the manner of death ruled as suicide by hanging. Police responded to a call at a residence, where they conducted a death investigation and found no evidence of foul play.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, on June 2, 1979, Ransone broke through with his raw, unforgettable performance as Ziggy in Season 2 of The Wire (2003), depicting the downfall of a dock worker desperate for respect in the city’s criminal underworld.

His career spanned television and film, including a standout role as Cpl. Josh Ray Person in HBO’s Generation Kill (2008), the adult Eddie Kaspbrak in It Chapter Two (2019), and supporting parts in horror hits like Sinister (2012), The Black Phone (2021), and its 2025 sequel.

Ransone had been open about personal struggles, including past addiction—he achieved sobriety in 2006—and childhood trauma he publicly addressed in 2021.

He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their child(ren).

Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues, praising his intense, authentic performances that often captured flawed, deeply human characters.