It was announced on December 21 that James Ransone, known for his roles in Sinister, It: Chapter Two And The thread, had died by suicide on Friday December 19 at age 46. Now his wife, Jamie McPhee, posted a touching tribute to him on Instagram. McPhee posted a photo of herself alongside the actor, writing in the caption:
“I told you I loved you 1000 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 so right. Thank you for giving me the greatest gifts: you, Jack and Violet. We are forever.”
Shortly after, McPhee shared another message with a photo of her children, where she spoke about her grieving process and her thoughts since the death of her husband, whom she called “PJ”:
“Today I took our children with my angel Kristen to [mall]. […] For the first time in my life, it was clear that people recognized me. I heard someone behind me in the food court say, “ask him.” But they didn’t. And thank you for not doing it. I was with my children. I told a friend later, and she said, “It makes you realize that you never really know what people are going through.” » And it’s true. Because there were many moments when we looked… happy. Normal. Laughing. Smiling. How? Not because we are not grieving. We are. But because I have two beautiful, incredible children who force me *daily* to see all the love and light that still exists inside.
PJ, the outpouring of love for you truly exceeds anything you could imagine. But more than that, this devastating loss has also given many people an incredible gift. I have been told countless stories. And there are probably a hundred thousand more that I still haven’t heard about from people who have reconnected. Friendships that heal after years of silence. Truths finally told. Old pains brought to the light and somehow…softened. Sometimes almost instantly. I know it’s real because I’ve done it myself these past few days.”
She then detailed a conversation she had with Ransone shortly before his death: “In the weeks before you left, after months spent telling me almost every regret you had: every mistake, every [frick]-up, every hurtful thing you thought you wrote or said, you burst into tears and said, “Baby, you know best.” [frick]something annoying above all? In fact, I like everyone. Well, baby, it turns out that despite all that, everyone loves you too.”
A Come onGundMe to support the family was also created. The campaign states the following:
“On Friday, December 19, we lost James Ransone, beloved husband, father and friend. James, who his friends called PJ, was funny, magnetic, brilliant and eternally alive. Above all, he was an extraordinary father. His wife, Jamie, known to his friends as Skipper, and their children, Jack and Violet, were the center of his world. They loved him infinitely, and he loved them just as fiercely in return. Their bond was deep, joyous and unmistakable to anyone who witnessed it.
This fund was created to support Jamie and the children as they navigate life after unimaginable loss. His goal is simple: to give Jamie the space to fully focus on Jack and Violet, caring for them, protecting their sense of security, and ensuring they have a bright future, even without James’ light present in their daily lives. If you feel moved and are able to contribute, your support will go directly to helping this family move forward with stability, care and love. »
Some campaign supporters posted tributes to the actor on the GoFundMe page. One of them said: “[I] grew up with a lot of James’ work. He touched many lives he never met. I am so grateful to have been able to see him shine on screen. Your family is in my thoughts.” Another supporter wrote: “Sending you all my love. James brought so much joy to my life in some of my favorite films. I’m so sorry for your loss.” Another user also said: “I am incredibly sorry for your loss. He touched so many people and will never be forgotten. Best wishes to you and your family at this difficult time.”
Ransone has played lead and supporting roles in several films and television series. On the film side, he has starred or appeared in projects like Sinister, Old boy, Tangerine, Sinister 2, It: Chapter Two, And The black phone. On television, he played a leading role in season 2 of the HBO series The thread as Ziggy Sobotka, and had roles in shows like Burn Notice, Hawaii five-0, Bosch And The SEAL Team.
His last on-screen roles were in the second season of Peacock’s. Impassive faceAnd Black phone 2directed by Scott Derrickson.
If you, or someone you know, is having suicidal thoughts, please seek help. The following resources are available if you need them: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources. Another available resource is the International Association for Suicide Prevention.
