American actor James Ransone, known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka on HBO’s acclaimed series The Wire, has died by suicide at the age of 46 in Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the cause of death.
Ransone gained widespread recognition for his performance in the second season of The Wire in 2003, a show regarded as one of the most influential dramas in television history. He went on to appear in popular TV series such as Generation Kill, Trembles, and Bosch, as well as films including Sinister, The Chapter Two, and The Black Phone.
In recent years, Ransone openly discussed his struggles with addiction and trauma from sexual abuse, becoming a prominent advocate for mental health awareness. He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two children. Following his death, McPhee launched a fundraising campaign to support the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Fans and colleagues have expressed deep sorrow over Ransone’s passing, remembering him as a gifted actor and a courageous individual who spoke honestly about his personal challenges.
