James Ransone, most recognized for his performances in “The Wire” and “It,” passed away on December 19 at the age of 46.
James Ransone’s Death and Background
James Ransone died by suicide, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. He was born on June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland, and studied at the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology before spending a year at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan.
Ransone earned his first on-screen credit in 2001. His significant role came in 2003 when he portrayed Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in the second season of HBO’s “The Wire,” which focused on drug dealing in Baltimore.
Career Highlights and Notable Roles
In 2019, Ransone starred as Eddie Kaspbrak in “It Chapter Two,” alongside Jessica Chastain and James McAvoy. The sequel featured the characters, now adults, returning 27 years after their initial encounter with Pennywise.
He also played Max in “The Black Phone” (2021) and “The Black Phone 2” (2025). The first film revolved around a 13-year-old boy trapped by a masked killer who hears the voices of previous victims through a phone.
Collaborations and Other Projects
Ransone appeared in Sean Baker’s 2015 film “Tangerine,” where he played Chester, a shady character involved with a trans sex worker. He had many other acting credits throughout his career.
His extensive work included appearances in various acclaimed series and films, contributing to his notable presence in the entertainment industry.