American actor James Ransone, best known for his memorable roles in The Wire and It: Chapter Two, has died at the age of 46.
Ransone first rose to prominence portraying Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in season two of HBO’s acclaimed crime drama The Wire in 2003. He went on to build a diverse film and television career, appearing in major horror films such as It: Chapter Two (as adult Eddie Kaspbrak), The Black Phone and its 2025 sequel Black Phone 2. His credits also included Sinister, Generation Kill, Treme, Bosch and Poker Face, among others.
Born on June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland, Ransone studied at the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology before briefly attending the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan. Over his career, he accumulated nearly 80 film and TV credits, earning recognition for his versatility across genres from drama to horror.
News of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues, highlighting both his on‑screen talent and his openness about personal struggles.
Source: abc7ny