US actor RJ Mitte, best known for playing Walter White Jr., the son of drug kingpin Walter White in the award-winning television drama Breaking Bad, has died at the age of 34.
Mitte died in Brownsville, Texas, on Monday, according to reports. His publicist confirmed to Reuters that the actor died by suicide.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte,” his representative told the BBC.
The actor, who had cerebral palsy, drew on his personal experiences to portray Walter ‘Flynn’ White Jr. in the Emmy-winning series.
Bryan Cranston, who played his father in the drama, paid tribute to Mitte on Instagram, expressing his grief over the news.
“I met him when he was only 14 years old when he was cast as Walter White Jr., a part he played with such joy and enthusiasm,” said Cranston.
“That kid was pretty raw when we started shooting the pilot in February of 2007, but little by little we watched him grow into a really fine actor.”
Cranston played Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turned to crime to provide for his family after being diagnosed with cancer.
Reflecting on Mitte’s development as an actor and his work advocating for performers with disabilities, Cranston praised his former co-star for refusing to let cerebral palsy limit his ambitions.
He noted that Mitte never allowed his condition to “be an excuse for anything”.
“All that promise and potential now is such a loss,” wrote the actor, adding that he “thoroughly enjoyed being with him throughout
the years on the series, and after the spotlight on Breaking Bad dimmed”.
Cranston also expressed shock over the circumstances surrounding Mitte’s death.
He said “it is especially devastating to hear that he took his own life.”
Cranston added: “I’ll miss you, son.”
Mitte’s representative, Sean Reilly, also paid tribute to the actor, highlighting his contribution to disability awareness and inclusion.
“Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion,” Reilly told the BBC.
Beyond acting, Mitte served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, organisations that support people with disabilities and children requiring specialised healthcare.
He also established The Mitte Foundation to support philanthropic activities and community initiatives.
Through his advocacy, the actor used his public profile “to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation for people with disabilities”, Reilly said.
