The Osbourne family has been struck by a second devastating tragedy in the months leading up to Christmas, as they mourn the loss of close family friend and actor James 'PJ' Ransone.
A Heartbreaking Loss for the Osbourne Family
James Ransone, best known for his role as Ziggy Sobotka in HBO's acclaimed crime drama 'The Wire', is believed to have died by suicide last Friday. He was 46 years old. His death comes just days before the Christmas holiday and represents a fresh wave of grief for the Osbournes, who lost patriarch Ozzy Osbourne in July.
Longtime friend Jack Osbourne, 40, led the public tributes, sharing a poignant throwback photo of the pair dining together on social media. He wrote a heartfelt message to his followers, stating: 'Rest peacefully, James “PJ” Ransone. I will miss you deeply. The crazy chats, the laughter, all of it.'
Jack continued, 'I was so lucky to have called you my friend for 24 years. Damn, we had some wild times. I will always be grateful for you.' He concluded his tribute by sending love to Ransone's immediate family: 'Sending so much love to Jamie, Jack and Violet.'
Family Tributes and a History of Struggle
Jack's sister, Kelly Osbourne, 41, also expressed her profound sorrow. Sharing a picture of James, she penned: 'I have no words! This one really hits hard. RIP @jamesransone my heart is broken.'
The actor's death casts a shadow over the Osbourne family's first Christmas without Ozzy, who died on July 22 at the age of 76. Kelly had recently revealed the family's plan to gather at her mother Sharon's Buckinghamshire home for the festive period.
James Ransone is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two young children: a six-year-old son named Jack and a four-year-old daughter, Violet. In the wake of the tragedy, Jamie has added a fundraiser for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to her social media profile.
Ransone had been open in recent years about his personal battles. In 2021, he shared publicly that he was a survivor of sexual abuse. He also spoke candidly about addiction and recovery, telling Interview Magazine in 2016 that he got sober from heroin at age 27.
A Prolific Career on Screen
Beyond his breakout role in 'The Wire', Ransone built a prolific career across film and television. His notable credits include:
- The horror films Sinister (2012) and It Chapter Two (2019).
- The critically acclaimed indie drama Tangerine (2015).
- Recent roles in The Black Phone (2021) and the upcoming sequel Black Phone 2 (2025).
His final television appearance was in an episode of the series 'Poker Face', which aired in June of this year.
If you have been affected by this story, support is available from the Samaritans by calling 116 123 or by emailing jo@samaritans.org.
