James Ransone, the actor recognized for his roles in IT Chapter Two and The Black Phone, has died at the age of 46. The Film Independent Spirit Award winner was found dead by hanging Friday in Los Angeles, with the county medical examiner reporting that the death appeared to be a suicide.
Born June 2, 1979, in Baltimore, Maryland, Ransone attended the George Washington Carver Center for Arts and Technology before studying at Manhattan’s School of Visual Arts.
He began his acting career in early 2000s independent films, appearing in Larry Clark’s Ken Park (2002), John Waters’ A Dirty Shame (2004), and Spike Lee’s Inside Man (2006).
Ransone became widely known for his horror roles, including the adult Eddie Kaspbrak in IT Chapter Two (2019) and a deputy in Sinister (2012) and Sinister 2 (2015).
He recently reprised his role as Max in The Black Phone 2. His filmography also includes Prom Night (2008), Starlet (2012), Spike Lee’s Red Hook Summer (2012), Oldboy (2013), Cymbeline (2014), Sean Baker’s Tangerine (2015), Mr. Right (2015), Gemini (2017), and V/H/S/85 (2023).
On television, Ransone appeared in The Wire, CSI, Law & Order, Burn Notice, Hawaii Five-0, Treme, Bosch, and Poker Face. He is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their son.
Mental health experts say that actors often face intense pressure due to unpredictable work schedules and public scrutiny.
Dr. Laura Simmons, a Los Angeles based psychologist specializing in performing arts mental health, said, “The combination of fame, irregular work, and personal stress can contribute to emotional strain.
High profile suicides in Hollywood highlight the need for stronger mental health support within the industry.” Film historian Michael Caldwell added, “Ransone’s body of work reflects a versatility that often goes unrecognized.
His contributions to modern horror were significant, and his death is a profound loss for both independent and mainstream cinema.”
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide remains a leading cause of death for adults ages 35 to 54 in the United States.
The entertainment industry has seen a higher than average rate of mental health challenges among performers, with a 2021 study in the Journal of Media Psychology finding that actors reported more frequent symptoms of anxiety and depression than the general population.
Fans and colleagues took to social media to remember Ransone’s impact. Actress Laura Beltran, who worked with him on Tangerine, said, “James brought authenticity and depth to every role.
His energy on set was infectious, and he will be deeply missed.” Local film students in Baltimore, his hometown, described him as an inspiration. “He showed us that talent from our city could reach international stages,” said Malik Johnson, a 22 year old student filmmaker.
Industry insiders note that Ransone’s death may spark renewed conversations about mental health in Hollywood.
Studios and unions have recently increased access to counseling services for actors, but experts say more systemic support is needed to address stress, isolation, and the pressures of public life.
James Ransone’s career spanned more than two decades, blending independent cinema with mainstream horror. His performances touched audiences worldwide, leaving a legacy of memorable roles and artistic contributions.
Ransone is survived by his wife and young son, and his passing serves as a somber reminder of the ongoing mental health challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry.
