RJ Mitte, who grew up on screen as Walter White Jr. in Breaking Bad and became a prominent disability rights advocate, has died at 34.
His representatives confirmed that the actor died on Monday, October 12, in Brownsville, Texas. The news prompted tributes from Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris and colleagues who worked with him beyond the acclaimed AMC drama.
A spokesperson told PEOPLE that Mitte died by suicide. Brownsville police said their investigation remained ongoing, with the official cause and manner of death awaiting a medical examiner’s determination.
Bryan Cranston remembers his on-screen son
Cranston recalled meeting Mitte when he was 14 and watching him develop from an inexperienced teenager into a confident actor. He praised Mitte’s enthusiasm, determination and commitment to improving opportunities for performers with disabilities.
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The two had remained in touch after Breaking Bad ended. Cranston said they had recently exchanged messages about meeting for lunch, and closed his tribute with a simple farewell: “I’ll miss you, son.”
Dean Norris, who played Mitte’s on-screen uncle Hank Schrader, remembered feeling protective of the young actor during filming. His message focused on Mitte’s kindness and the affection he inspired among the cast.
Aaron Paul also expressed his grief, remembering Mitte as a friend and encouraging anyone reading his tribute to recognise that they are loved and do not have to face difficulties alone.
A career that helped widen representation
Mitte lived with cerebral palsy, as did his Breaking Bad character, Walter “Flynn” White Jr. The role brought him international recognition during the series’ 2008–2013 run. His later films included Triumph, in which he played a young wrestler with cerebral palsy, The Recall and The Oak Room.
Away from acting, he served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, and as president of The Mitte Foundation. His representatives highlighted his work challenging stereotypes and supporting greater inclusion.
Marlee Matlin, who worked with him on Switched at Birth, shared her sorrow. Actor Micah Fowler offered a particularly personal reflection, crediting Mitte with helping him feel more confident before playing JJ in Speechless. His tribute showed how Mitte’s example reached other disabled performers building their own careers.
