Wendell Pierce has apologised for "not being there" for the late James Ransone

He wrote on X: "Sorry I couldn't be there for you, brother. Rest in Peace James Ransone."

A host of James' previous collaborators have also paid tribute following the news.

Director Spike Lee shared a photo of them together and wrote on Instagram: "Rest In Peace To My Dear Brother, MR. JAMES RANSONE. We Rocked Together On RED HOOK SUMMER And INSIDE MAN.(sic)"

Filmmaker Larry Clark shared a photo of the actor in his 2002 movie Ken Park and simply wrote: "RIP."

Mya Taylor paid an emotional tribute to her Tangerine co-star.

She wrote: "RIP James Ransone. This hurt me so bad. Such a sweet and funny guy. He helped me deal with fame. He could light up a room with his smile and dimples. So funny and sweet and he will be missed. Love this man so much."

The movie's director, Sean Baker, who also worked with James on Starlet, posted: "I'll miss you dearly my friend."

Madeline McGraw felt "profound emptiness" after being told her Black Phone and Black Phone 2 co-star had passed away.

The 17-year-old actress wrote on her Instagram Story: "I'm struggling to put into words the profound emptiness I'm feeling since learning of James Ransone's passing. My heart is absolutely shattered.

"At the premiere of the first Black Phone James pulled me and my parents aside and spent nearly 45 minutes talking with us. He was so genuinely supportive and he took the time to share heartfelt advice with my parents about how to guide and protect me in this industry.

"That night, I spoke to so many people but his conversation is the only one etched in my memory forever. He was such a beautiful soul. Full of passion and so much kindness.

"When he returned for his cameo in Black Phone 2, he was just as humble and grateful, lighting up with pure excitement to be on the Black Phone set.

"We got to catch up, laugh and connect again, and he was exactly the same: that radiant, passionate man overflowing with love for me, for his craft and for his family.

"James, you truly changed me. You inspired me in ways I'll carry forever. And I promise, with everything in me, to live by the wisdom you shared with me that night at the premiere. I already miss you so deeply. Rest in peace, my friend. You were one of a kind."