‘The Wire’ Star James Ransone Passes Away at 46

James Ransone, the gifted character actor best known for his unforgettable turn as Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka on HBO’s The Wire, has died at the age of 46. His passing marks a tragic loss for television and film fans who admired his raw, unfiltered performances and his willingness to portray deeply flawed, human characters.

According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, Ransone died by suicide. He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two children. McPhee shared a moving tribute on Instagram, reflecting on their life together and the family they built.

“Thank you for giving me the greatest gifts you, Jack and Violet. We are forever,” she wrote.

Ransone rose to prominence playing Ziggy Sobotka during the second season of The Wire, a role that remains one of the most polarizing and emotionally charged in the show’s history. Ziggy was reckless, insecure, and self-destructive traits Ransone portrayed with uncomfortable authenticity, helping cement The Wire as one of the most respected television dramas of all time.

Beyond The Wire, Ransone built a steady career as a reliable and intense supporting actor:

• He played Eddie Kaspbrak in It: Chapter Two

• Appeared in The Black Phone and the upcoming Black Phone 2

• Took roles in series like Bosch, Poker Face, and HBO’s Generation Kill

Born in Baltimore in 1979, Ransone attended the Carver Center for Arts and Technology in Maryland, an early sign of his commitment to the craft. He broke into film with Ken Park in 2002 before landing the role that would define his career just one year later.

In recent years, Ransone spoke openly about his personal demons. In a 2021 social media post, he revealed that he had been sexually abused as a child by a tutor and described the lifelong consequences that followed. He talked candidly about addiction, shame, and his long road to recovery, noting that he had struggled with heroin use for nearly three decades before getting sober.

His openness resonated with many. In the United States, more than 49,000 people die by suicide each year, and substance abuse remains a leading risk factor. Actors and creatives are not immune; studies have shown that those in entertainment face significantly higher rates of depression and anxiety than the general population.

Ransone’s story is a reminder that success and inner peace are not the same thing. He brought intensity and vulnerability to the screen in a way few actors could, often drawing from personal pain to elevate his work. That honesty made his performances memorable and his loss deeply felt.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the U.S., the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline can be reached by calling or texting 988.

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