In memory of James Ranson: the life and career of an actor
22 december 2025 в 21:13
James Ranson built a successful career playing complex and often troubled characters in film and television. He first gained recognition for his role in the series «The Wire», - and later attracted a wider audience through his performances in films such as «It: Chapter Two», - «The Black Phone», - and «Evil Dead». After his death in December 2025 at the age of 46, many fans began to revisit his work and learn more about his life off-screen.
Ranson became known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka in the HBO series «The Wire». His portrayal of the emotionally unstable dockworker stood out in the critically acclaimed series and helped establish him as a talented actor. This role remains one of the most memorable in his career and introduced him to a broad audience.
Reflecting on the audition process in a 2015 interview, Ranson spoke about his roots. «I lived in New York, but I’m from Baltimore. I grew up in Towson, a suburb», - he said. «When I was auditioning — it was one of the first scenes in a bar where Ziggy pulls out his member — and the dialogue was so damn tight. I thought, 'I have no idea what’s going on here, but I know I can talk with a Baltimore accent.'»
Ranson played the adult version of Eddie Kaspbrak in «It: Chapter Two», - appearing on screen alongside James McAvoy, Bill Hader, and Jessica Chastain.
In addition to «It» and «The Wire», - Ranson appeared in several notable horror films and thrillers, including «The Black Phone» and «Evil Dead». He also took on roles in «Generation Kill», - «Tangerine», - and other projects, often choosing dark, character-driven stories that showcased his range as an actor.
Ranson was married to Jamie McPhee, and the couple had two young children. He tried to keep his personal life private, rarely speaking publicly about his family. After his death, McPhee posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, honoring him as a devoted husband and father.
«I told you I loved you a thousand times before, and I know I will love you again. You told me, 'I need to be more like you, and you need to be more like me,' and you were absolutely right. Thank you for the greatest gifts — you, Jack, and Violet. We are forever together».
Ranson passed away in December 2025 at the age of 46. Records from the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office confirmed that he died on December 19, 2025. The coroner later ruled his death a suicide by hanging.
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or is thinking about suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1−800−273-TALK (8255)
Ranson became known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka in the HBO series «The Wire». His portrayal of the emotionally unstable dockworker stood out in the critically acclaimed series and helped establish him as a talented actor. This role remains one of the most memorable in his career and introduced him to a broad audience.
Reflecting on the audition process in a 2015 interview, Ranson spoke about his roots. «I lived in New York, but I’m from Baltimore. I grew up in Towson, a suburb», - he said. «When I was auditioning — it was one of the first scenes in a bar where Ziggy pulls out his member — and the dialogue was so damn tight. I thought, 'I have no idea what’s going on here, but I know I can talk with a Baltimore accent.'»
Ranson played the adult version of Eddie Kaspbrak in «It: Chapter Two», - appearing on screen alongside James McAvoy, Bill Hader, and Jessica Chastain.
In addition to «It» and «The Wire», - Ranson appeared in several notable horror films and thrillers, including «The Black Phone» and «Evil Dead». He also took on roles in «Generation Kill», - «Tangerine», - and other projects, often choosing dark, character-driven stories that showcased his range as an actor.
Ranson was married to Jamie McPhee, and the couple had two young children. He tried to keep his personal life private, rarely speaking publicly about his family. After his death, McPhee posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, honoring him as a devoted husband and father.
«I told you I loved you a thousand times before, and I know I will love you again. You told me, 'I need to be more like you, and you need to be more like me,' and you were absolutely right. Thank you for the greatest gifts — you, Jack, and Violet. We are forever together».
Ranson passed away in December 2025 at the age of 46. Records from the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office confirmed that he died on December 19, 2025. The coroner later ruled his death a suicide by hanging.
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress or is thinking about suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1−800−273-TALK (8255)
© Artemenko Olga
