The Los Angeles Dodgers community, along with the wider world of film and television, is in profound mourning following the heartbreaking news that actor James Ransone has passed away. Ransone, a versatile talent best known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka in the HBO masterpiece The Wire and as the adult Eddie Kaspbrak in It Chapter Two, was found dead in Los Angeles on Friday, December 19, 2025.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner has officially confirmed that Ransone, 46, died by suicide. The news has triggered an outpouring of grief from fans who admired not only his “magnetic force of nature” on screen but also his raw honesty regarding his personal struggles with addiction and trauma.
A Legacy of Intensity and Truth
Ransone was a frequent fixture in the Los Angeles creative scene and a noted presence at Dodgers events. His career was defined by “layered, forceful performances” that often explored the complexities of human pain:
The HBO Icon: His portrayal of the unstable Ziggy Sobotka in The Wire remains one of the most discussed arcs in television history. He later reunited with creator David Simon for Generation Kill and Treme.
Horror Legend: Ransone became a staple of modern horror, starring in the Sinister franchise, The Black Phone, and the upcoming Black Phone 2.
A Voice for Recovery: In recent years, Ransone earned widespread respect for openly discussing his journey to sobriety and his experience as a survivor of childhood abuse, providing “courage and comfort” to countless others facing similar demons.
A Family and Community in Grief
James Ransone is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two young children, Jack and Violet. In a poignant tribute on social media, McPhee wrote:
“I told you I have loved you 1000 times before, and I know I will love you again… Thank you for giving me the greatest gifts—you, Jack and Violet. We are forever.”
Collaborators like Spike Lee, Sean Baker, and Wendell Pierce have shared their shock and sorrow, with Pierce writing a simple, devastating message: “Sorry I couldn’t be there for you, brother.” As the Dodgers community reflects on the loss of a “sweet and funny guy” who could light up any room, the message from mental health advocates is clear: No one has to fight alone.
