American actor James Ransone, known for playing the role of drug dealer Ziggy Sobotka in the series “The Wire,” has died, officials reported on Sunday. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office stated he died by suicide.
Ransone, 46, who was known for portraying characters with troubled pasts, was born in Baltimore, Maryland, the city where “The Wire” is set. The series focuses on police detectives investigating drug dealers.
Over 12 episodes in the show’s second season, Ransone played the role of a dockworker who becomes a drug dealer. In addition to his television work, he appeared in several films.
His most recent screen appearances this year were in the Peacock series “Poker Face” and the film “Black Phone 2.”
James Ransone
James Ransone is an American actor known for his roles in film and television, such as in the “It” sequel and the series “The Wire.” He began his career in the early 2000s, often portraying complex or troubled characters in both indie films and major studio projects.
Ziggy Sobotka
“Ziggy Sobotka” is not a place or cultural site, but a fictional character from the acclaimed HBO television series *The Wire*. He is a longshoreman and a struggling, impulsive member of the Sobotka family, whose story in Season 2 highlights the economic decline and corruption within the Baltimore port system.
The Wire
“The Wire” is an American television drama series that aired from 2002 to 2008, created by former police reporter David Simon. Set in Baltimore, Maryland, it offers a gritty, novelistic exploration of the city’s institutions, including the illegal drug trade, the port, city government, schools, and print media, critiquing systemic failures and societal issues.
Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office is a government agency responsible for investigating deaths within the county that are sudden, violent, or unexplained. It was established in the late 19th century and has played a key role in numerous high-profile forensic cases throughout its history.
Baltimore
Baltimore is a major city in Maryland, USA, founded in 1729 as a port for the tobacco trade. It played a pivotal role in American history, including the War of 1812, which inspired the writing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Today, it is known for its historic Inner Harbor, important cultural institutions, and as the birthplace of the American railroad.
Maryland
Maryland is a U.S. state founded in 1632 as a proprietary colony for English Catholics seeking religious tolerance. It played a pivotal role in early American history, with its state flag bearing the heraldic banners of the Calvert and Crossland families of its founding Lords Baltimore.
Peacock
The Peacock is a historic pub in the London district of Holborn, originally established in 1564. It is notable for being a former coaching inn and is one of the few remaining buildings that survived the Great Fire of London in 1666.
Poker Face
“Poker Face” is not a physical place or cultural site, but rather the title of a popular song by Lady Gaga from her 2008 debut album *The Fame*. The song became a global hit, known for its themes of emotional concealment and its influential synth-pop sound.
Black Phone 2
“Black Phone 2” is not a real-world place or cultural site; it is the title of a 2025 American supernatural horror film directed by Scott Derrickson. The film is a sequel to 2022’s “The Black Phone,” which was loosely based on a short story by Joe Hill.
