James Ransone Dies: James Ransone, a respected character actor best known for his role in Season 2 of HBO’s The Wire and for his appearances in horror films such as It Chapter Two and The Black Phone, passed away on Friday in Los Angeles. He was 46.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed his death and stated on its website that the case is being investigated as a suicide. No additional details were immediately available.
Representatives for Ransone did not respond to the question about James Ransone’s death.
Early Life and Baltimore Roots of Fame James Ransone Dies
Ransone was born in 1979 in Baltimore, Maryland, a background that proved significant early in his career. In the early 2000s, The Wire, a little-watched but critically ambitious HBO drama, actively sought actors with authentic ties to the city for its second season.
The Wire Fame #jamesransone Dies at 46. pic.twitter.com/Wxlusj7wku
— Hollywood Hype (@Hollywoodhypes) December 22, 2025
Although Ransone was living in New York at the time, he was familiar with the series through subway posters promoting the show. He also had a personal connection to the production through his friend, actor Leo Fitzpatrick, who had already appeared in several episodes.
Fame James’s Career Highlights in Television and Film
Ransone’s performance on The Wire helped establish him as a versatile and compelling character actor. Over the years, he built a career playing intense, emotionally complex roles across independent films, television dramas, and mainstream movies.

He later gained renewed attention for his work in the horror genre, appearing in It Chapter Two (2019) and The Black Phone (2021), performances that introduced him to a new generation of audiences.
Known for his raw screen presence and commitment to his craft, Ransone earned respect within the industry for bringing depth and authenticity to every role he played. His death marks a significant loss for film and television, particularly among fans who admired his understated but powerful performances.
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