James Finley Ransone III, the American actor widely known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka in season 2 of HBO’s The Wire, died by suicide at the age of 46, according to official medical records and multiple major news outlets.
AP News
+1

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Ransone died on December 19, 2025 in Los Angeles, California, and the cause of death was suicide by hanging.
AP News
+1
Law enforcement authorities responded to a report at a residence, conducted an investigation, and found no signs of foul play in connection with his death.
TMZ

Ransone’s passing has been widely covered in news reports and confirmed through official public records. His profile on biographical sites now lists “suicide by hanging” as the cause of death.
Wikipedia

Career and Legacy

James Ransone’s acting career spanned more than two decades, and he became known for his versatility in both television and film:

He broke out as Ziggy Sobotka — a troubled dockworker entangled in crime — on HBO’s The Wire (Season 2), a role that earned critical attention and enduring fan affection.
Wikipedia

He also had memorable roles in other high-profile projects, such as Eddie Kaspbrak in It: Chapter Two, Max in The Black Phone and its sequel, Corporal Josh Ray Person in Generation Kill, and parts in films like Sinister and Tangerine.
Wikipedia

On television, his credits included appearances on series like Bosch, Poker Face, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Hawaii Five-0, and Burn Notice.
AP News

Colleagues, co-stars, and creators have been paying tribute to his work and lamenting the loss of his distinct talent and presence in the industry.
Los Angeles Times

Personal Struggles and Public Advocacy

Ransone was also known for speaking openly about personal challenges he faced throughout his life. He had publicly discussed battles with substance addiction, including heroin use, and sobriety later in his career.
Indiatimes

In 2021, he shared on social media that he was sexually abused as a child, a trauma he said deeply affected him and contributed to long-term struggles with shame and addiction.
New York Post
He reported the abuse to authorities, but no charges were brought against his alleged abuser.
New York Post

These candid discussions were seen by many as part of broader advocacy for mental-health awareness and survivor support, even as he continued to work on prominent film and television projects.
New York Post

Reaction and Impact

Ransone’s death has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans and peers alike, with many highlighting not only his performances but also the importance of mental health and support for those facing emotional distress.
TMZ

Support and Resources

Because this topic deals with suicide, it’s especially important to emphasize that help is available for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental-health issues. In the United States, you can:

Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988

Visit 988lifeline.org for online chat and additional support

If you are outside the U.S., local mental health resources and emergency numbers can connect you with trained professionals.