James Ransone, an actor known for his performances in It: Chapter Two, The Black Phone films, The Wire and more, died earlier this month. He was 46. The Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s Office released the records of his cause of death, which revealed that he died on December 19, 2025.
In a heartbreaking Instagram post, Ransone’s wife, Jamie McPhee, shared a photo of her and her late husband as he cradled her pregnant belly.
“I told you I have loved you 1000 times before, and I know I will love you again,” McPhee wrote in her caption. “You told me – I need to be more like you and you need to be more like me – and you were so right. Thank you for giving me the greatest gifts – you, Jack and Violet. We are forever.”
Below, learn what happened to Ransone and more about his career.
What Movies & TV Shows Did James Ransone Star in?
Ransone had worked his way up the ladder in film and TV. He earned recognition for playing Ziggy Sobotka in The Wire and Cpl. Josh Ray Person in Generation Kill.
The late Maryland native was also known for starring in supernatural thrillers and horrors, including Sinister and Sinister 2, Tangerine, It: Chapter Two and The Black Phone movies.
How Did James Ransone Die? His Cause of Death
Ransone died by suicide, according to records from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. According to the online documents, Ransone died by hanging.
James Ransone Was Married With Children
As previously noted, Ransone was married to his wife, and they shared two children together.
What Happened to James Ransone?
In May 2021, Ransone accused his math tutor of sexually abusing him back in 1992. While he told the Baltimore County Police in 2020, they reportedly declined to pursue charges following an investigation. Per The Baltimore Sun, police informed the Baltimore County School System of the allegations.
During an October 2016 conversation with Interview Magazine, Ransone revealed he battled a heroin addiction for five years.
If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
If you or anyone you know has been sexually abused, call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673). A trained staff member will provide confidential, judgment-free support as well as local resources to assist in healing, recovering and more.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
