Updated: December 22, 2025
James Ransone, the talented character actor best known for his unforgettable roles in The Wire and horror hits like It Chapter Two, left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Tragically, Ransone passed away on December 19, 2025, at the age of 46. His versatile performances, often portraying complex and edgy characters, earned him a dedicated fanbase. In this post, we’ll explore James Ransone’s net worth, his remarkable career journey, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Breakthrough
Born James Finley Ransone III on June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland, Ransone grew up in a creative environment. He attended the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology, a magnet school specializing in the arts, where he honed his theater skills before briefly studying at the School of Visual Arts in New York.
His big break came in 2003 with the role of Chester “Ziggy” Sobotka in Season 2 of HBO’s critically acclaimed series The Wire. Ziggy’s chaotic, vulnerable portrayal made Ransone a standout, launching his career in television and film.
- Overcame personal struggles, including addiction, achieving sobriety in 2007
- Known for raw, authentic performances that brought depth to troubled characters
- Baltimore roots influenced his grounded acting style
Career Highlights and Notable Roles
Ransone’s career spanned over two decades, blending prestige TV, indie films, and blockbuster horror. He collaborated with directors like Spike Lee, Sean Baker, and Scott Derrickson, showcasing his range from dramatic intensity to quirky humor.
Some key milestones:
- Generation Kill (2008): Played Cpl. Josh Ray Person in the HBO miniseries
- Sinister (2012) and Sinister 2 (2015): Iconic as the quirky Deputy So-and-So
- Tangerine (2015): Supporting role in the acclaimed indie hit
- It Chapter Two (2019): Perfectly cast as adult Eddie Kaspbrak
- Recent projects: The Black Phone (2021) and its 2025 sequel, plus appearances in Poker Face and SEAL Team
His ability to steal scenes in supporting roles made him a go-to actor for complex, morally gray characters.
James Ransone Net Worth Breakdown
As of late 2025, James Ransone’s net worth is estimated between $1.5 million and $2 million, according to sources like Celebrity Net Worth and InfoSeeMedia. His earnings stemmed primarily from acting fees under SAG-AFTRA contracts, residuals from popular shows and films, and occasional convention appearances.
Here’s a quick overview of his career earnings sources:
| Category | Details | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Television Roles | The Wire, Generation Kill, Bosch, Poker Face | Major portion, including residuals |
| Film Roles | Sinister series, It Chapter Two, The Black Phone duo | Supporting roles in blockbusters |
| Indie & Other Projects | Tangerine, Spike Lee films, theater work | Steady income from diverse gigs |
| Total Net Worth | Primarily from 25+ years in acting | $1.5M – $2M (2025 estimates) |
These figures reflect a solid career as a character actor, though not superstar-level wealth.
Personal Life and Legacy
Ransone was married to Jamie McPhee and had children. He was open about past challenges, including addiction recovery and mental health advocacy, inspiring many fans.
His sudden passing has sparked tributes from co-stars like Spike Lee and fans worldwide, highlighting his genuine talent and kindness.
Conclusion
James Ransone’s net worth of around $1.5 to $2 million underscores a fulfilling career built on passion and resilience rather than massive paydays. From Ziggy’s heartbreak in The Wire to Eddie’s neurotic charm in It Chapter Two, he brought authenticity to every role. Though gone too soon, Ransone’s performances will continue to captivate audiences for years. Rest in peace to a true character actor gem.