At a Glance
- James Ransone, best known for The Wire, died by suicide on Dec. 19 in Los Angeles
- He was 46 years old, per his death certificate obtained by News Of Los Angeles on Jan. 7
- The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed the cause on Dec. 29
- Why it matters: The tragedy spotlights mental-health struggles in the entertainment industry
Actor James Ransone, famed for playing Ziggy Sobotka on HBO’s The Wire, has died by suicide at age 46, officials confirmed this week. His death certificate, obtained by News Of Los Angeles, lists Dec. 19 as the date and Los Angeles as the location.
The Confirmation
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner ruled the death an apparent suicide on Dec. 29. The news emerged publicly when the certificate was released on Jan. 7.
Family and Friends React
Two days after his death, Ransone’s wife Jamie shared an emotional Instagram post:
> “I told you I have loved you 1000 times before and I know I will love you again. You told me – I need to be more like you and you need to be more like me – and you were so right.”
She thanked him “for giving me the greatest gifts – you, Jack and Violet,” referring to their two children.
A GoFundMe page organized to cover expenses described Ransone as:
- A “beloved husband, father, and friend”
- Known to friends as PJ
- “Funny, magnetic, brilliant, and endlessly alive”
- “An extraordinary father” whose family was “the center of his world”
Career Highlights
| Project | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| The Wire | Ziggy Sobotka | 2003 |
| It: Chapter Two | Eddie Kaspbrak (adult) | 2019 |
| The Black Phone | – | 2021 |
| Black Phone 2 | – | 2025 |
Additional credits include Law & Order, Hawaii Five-0, and Tangerine.
Tributes from Co-Stars
Channing Tatum, who worked with Ransone on The Son of No One, wrote:
> “I love you PJ I’ll see you on the next one my G.”
Natasha Lyonne, his Poker Face colleague, commented:
> “Love you with everything I got and holding our beloved brilliant peejo with grace gratitude and cosmic peace into this life and the next – family forever ♾️ beautiful jamie you are the best of us we love you.”
Key Takeaways
- James Ransone died by suicide at 46, officials confirmed
- He leaves behind wife Jamie and children Jack and Violet
- Co-stars and friends remember his humor, talent, and devotion
- Resources: Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for mental-health support
Ransone’s passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and collaborators who cherished his vibrant spirit on-screen and off.
