A look inside James Ransone’s steady career, cult roles and stable net worth

James Ransone, the American actor widely recognised for his work on The Wire and a range of television and film projects, has died at the age of 46, according to authorities in Los Angeles. Officials confirmed the cause of his death as suicide on Friday, noting that no criminal activity was suspected. There are no more details available at this stage about his death.

He rose to prominence in 2003 with his portrayal of Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in the second season of The Wire, a performance that made him a standout in the critically acclaimed series. That role opened the door to continued collaborations with creator David Simon, including a prominent turn in the war drama Generation Kill, where Ransone appeared in all seven episodes.

Beyond television, Ransone expanded his profile through film, most notably appearing as Eddie Kaspbrak in IT: Chapter Two, part of the blockbuster adaptation of Stephen King’s novel. He also became a familiar face in the horror genre, with roles in Sinister, The Black Phone and other genre hits that added to both his visibility and earnings.

Over the years, Ransone maintained a steady presence on television with appearances in series such as Bosch, Treme, SEAL Team, The First and Poker Face, which marked his final screen appearance in 2023. While he was rarely positioned as a traditional leading man, his reputation as a character actor helped him secure regular work and long-term financial stability.

Born in Baltimore in 1979, Ransone trained in the arts before moving into acting full-time. He often spoke candidly about the challenges of his early life and how acting became both a creative outlet and a livelihood. That perseverance translated into a durable career that balanced artistic credibility with commercial success.

Ransone’s passing has now renewed attention on a career that spanned more than two decades and quietly produced a solid financial legacy. Industry estimates place his net worth at around $1.5 million, reflecting years of consistent work across prestige television, independent cinema and commercially successful films.

Following news of his death, fellow actors and fans shared tributes highlighting his distinctive performances and commitment to his craft. While he never sought Hollywood stardom, Ransone leaves behind a body of work that reflected persistence, range and respect within the industry.