'The Wire' and 'It: Chapter Two' actor dies at 46

James Ransone, whose screen presence ranged from the streets of Baltimore in The Wire to the eerie world of It: Chapter Two, has died at 46. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner confirmed his death on Friday.

Born 2 June 1979, in Baltimore to Joyce and James Ransone II, he first drew attention playing Ziggy Sobotka on HBO’s acclaimed crime series. Years later, he portrayed the adult Eddie Kaspbrak in It: Chapter Two, following Jack Dylan Grazer’s younger version, cementing his reputation for complex, layered performances.

Ransone’s career spanned television and film, including Law & Order, Hawaii Five-0, and Natasha Lyonne’s Poker Face, as well as Sean Baker’s Tangerine and Blumhouse productions The Black Phone and its 2025 sequel. His early work included a breakout role in the 2002 teen series Ken Park.

Tributes poured in after the news. HBO posted a photo of Ransone in The Wire, writing: “In loving memory of James Ransone.” Blumhouse added: “We are saddened by the passing of James Ransone. We are grateful to have worked with him… Our thoughts are with his loved ones.”

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