RJ Mitte, who played Walter White Jr. on “Breaking Bad,” has died at age 34. A county official confirmed to TMZ, which first reported the news, that Mitte died in Texas and that the death investigation is ongoing. His death was by suicide.
His representative confirmed the death in a statement Monday to Page Six. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte,” the statement read. “RJ Mitte was best known for his role as Walter ‘Flynn’ White Jr. on AMC’s critically acclaimed, award-winning series ‘Breaking Bad.’ Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion.”
Bryan Cranston, who played Mitte’s father Walter White on the series, posted an Instagram tribute Monday evening describing “deep despair” over the loss.
“I’m in deep despair as I write this tonight. RJ Mitte, my sweet son on Breaking Bad has died,” Cranston wrote, alongside a photo of the two together. “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.”
Cranston recalled that Mitte, who was born with cerebral palsy, “never — ever — allowed that challenge to be an excuse for anything” and “met the demanding shooting schedule head on with great determination.” He described Mitte as a teenager who sometimes “mischievously” ignored advice from his on-screen parents, Cranston and Anna Gunn, but grew over the course of the series “into a really fine actor.”
Cranston also noted that Mitte became “a vocal advocate for performers with disabilities” and led a philanthropic organization devoted to helping the disabled community.
“We were texting each other just a few weeks ago — figuring out when we could meet for lunch. I don’t know if that lunch would have changed his future,” Cranston wrote. “I do know that I loved him, and thoroughly enjoyed being with him throughout the years on the series.”
Cranston closed his post by sharing a suicide hotline number and urging anyone who needs support to use it.
Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, said in a statement obtained by the Hollywood Reporter: “I am at a loss. I am heartbroken over this news. RJ, I love you my friend. You will be missed. And to whoever happens to be reading this, please know you are loved, and you are not alone. Always remember that.”
Dean Norris, who played Hank Schrader, wrote on X that he was “heartbroken” by the news. “Though RJ didn’t play my TV son, I always looked out for him as a young kid on set. He was a sweetheart of a young man and will be greatly missed,” Norris wrote. “This is so heartbreaking, I can’t believe it. Thinking of him and his family.”
If you or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available by call or text.
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