The death of James Ransone, an actor best known for his performances in ‘Sinister’, ‘The Wire’, and ‘It Chapter Two’, occurred on 19 December 2025 when he died unexpectedly at age 46. In addition to his wide range of experience across conveiving TV, theatre and having made films, James was estimated to have had a value of 1.5 million dollars, just prior to passing. The timing of James’ passing with such abruptness has shocked fans and colleagues alike.
Who Is James Ransone?
James Finley Ransone III is an American actor, writer, producer, and director. He was born on June 2, 1979 in Baltimore, Maryland to parents Joyce and James Finley Ransone II an Army veteran who served during the Vietnam War. Growing up, he had one brother named Dave and gained an appreciation for different forms of art when he was just a child. He went on to attend the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology located in Towson, MD before attending the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City for a short period of time.
How James Ransone Died
On December 19th 2025, actor James Ransone passed away, aged 46 years old, after hanging himself in his shed located at home in Los Angeles, CA. The Los Angeles County Coroner's office confirmed he died by suicide from hanging and responded to a report of someone's distress (a 911 call). An investigation into the death determined that there did not appear to be any wrongdoing associated with it and that he committed suicide.
James Ransone Biography: A Life in Acting
After 2001, the year he began an acting career with several small television and film roles, Ransone achieved his breakout performance as Ziggy Sobotka on Season Two of HBO's THE WIRE. He has since appeared in many varied productions – including GENERATION KILL, SINISTER, SINISTER 2, IT CHAPTER TWO, THE BLACK PHONE, etc.
In addition to his work in film and television, Ransone has also performed on stage, most notably in an off-Broadway production of "Small Engine Repair." He had also developed a reputation for playing complex and broken men, which he attributes to his own experiences in life.
James Ransone Achievements: Awards and Critical Acclaim
Here are James Ransone's achievements and critical acclaim in points:
- Won the Robert Altman Award for Best Ensemble Cast at the Independent Spirit Awards for his role in "Starlet".
- Received widespread critical acclaim for his performance in "Starlet," which highlighted his ability to portray complex characters.
- Gained recognition for his roles in horror films like "Sinister" and "Sinister 2," earning praise for his intense and nuanced acting.
- Played Adult Eddie Kaspbrak in "It Chapter Two," further establishing his reputation in mainstream cinema.
- Delivered a memorable performance as Max in "The Black Phone," which was lauded for its emotional depth and authenticity.
- Appeared in acclaimed TV series such as "The Wire" and "Generation Kill," where his acting was praised for realism and depth.
- Continued to build a strong portfolio with roles in independent films and major studio productions, showcasing his versatility.
James Ransone Family: Wife and Children
James Ransone has had an exceptionally successful acting career, but even more importantly he enjoys a similar quality in his personal life (both professional and private). In addition, his passion for acting is matched by his commitment to raising a family and nurturing the spirits of his loved ones. After completing his education in San Francisco, James married Jamie McPhee, his college sweetheart, who was born and raised in California and has always chosen to live a private and quiet life. Together they are proud parents of four children and have established an incredibly loving and nurturing environment for their family. Both family and friends describe James and Jamie's relationship in an extremely positive way, and both understand how important it is for them to be there to support each other. Furthermore, Jamie has provided tremendous support to James during his struggles with mental health and his continuing battle with addiction.
Prior to meeting and marrying Jamie, James had a short-lived romance with actress Chloë Sevigny, but this was never a serious relationship. For both James and Jamie, a very loving and healthy, laid-back relationship has existed although they both place the health and welfare of their children above their own fame or recognition. Jamie has respected James' desire for privacy, which has allowed James to focus on building his career while also becoming a responsible and healthy father and creating a safe home for his children.
James Ransone Net Worth in 2025
In 2025, James Ransone's Net Worth was Estimated to be at $1.5 Million, with This Net Worth Accumulated Through his Contribution in Film, TV and Theatre. His big-name Roles in Major Film and Theatre Networks Provided him with the Financial Security Necessary to Provide for a Family and Pursue His Craft at a Professional Level. Even Though he has Achieved Financial Success, Ransone Remaining Grounded, Continuing to Live in a Modest Manner and Be Committed to Family and Craft.
James Ransone Building An Empire: Career Highlights
Ransone's career spanned over two decades, with highlights including:
- Ziggy Sobotka in "The Wire" (2003)
- Corporal Josh Ray Person in "Generation Kill" (2008)
- Deputy So-and-So in "Sinister" and "Sinister 2" (2012, 2015)
- Adult Eddie Kaspbrak in "It Chapter Two" (2019)
- Max in "The Black Phone" (2021)
- Bobby in "V/H/S/85" (2023)
- Cameo in "Black Phone 2" (2025)
James Ransone Wife: Jamie McPhee
Ransone’s life is greatly influenced by the influence that Jamie McPhee provided him with, and she supported Ransone throughout multiple stages of his career. In 2008, they married and raised two kids. Jamie did remain low-key, so Ransone could live a life of relative anonymity without worrying about the possibility of being constantly pursued by people in the media, resulting in him being able to concentrate on raising his children in an environment that was both sheltered and peaceful.
James Ransone Assets And Investments
The majority of the assets owned by Ransone seemed to originate from his income as an actor and from his real estate interests. However, he probably also has other types of investments; unfortunately, there is no public evidence of any major business-related investments, ventures, etc. Ransone leads a relatively simple life focused on family and art as opposed to extensive amounts of material goods.
James Ransone Famous Movies and TV Shows
James Ransone appeared in a wide range of films and TV shows, including:
- "The Wire" (TV series, 2003)
- "Generation Kill" (TV miniseries, 2008)
- "Sinister" (2012)
- "Sinister 2" (2015)
- "Starlet" (2012)
- "It Chapter Two" (2019)
- "The Black Phone" (2021)
- "V/H/S/85" (2023)
- "Bosch" (TV series, 2016)
- "Mosaic" (TV series, 2018)
- "The First" (TV series, 2018)
- "Poker Face" (TV series, 2025)
❗️Breaking: Actor James Ransone who starred in ‘Sinister’ and ‘It: Chapter Two’ died at 46 after taking his own life.
— Uncle_J🧧 (@Unclejayy01) December 21, 2025
According to the World Health Organization, more than 720,000 people die by suicide globally every year.
If you break that down, it works out to roughly about… pic.twitter.com/sbFR4EluMl
James Ransone’s Death and Net Worth
The cause of death for James Ransone has been confirmed as suicide by hanging with no indication of foul play involved. At the time of his death on December 19, 2025 at age 46, he was estimated to have a wealth of $1.5 million that he earned as an actor in film, television and theater including appearances in such films as The Wire, Sinister and IT Chapter 2; in addition, he will leave behind an incredible legacy through his ability to raise awareness of mental health issues and promote resilience through his performances and the way he inspired people to talk about those issues.
