Actor and champion for disability rights, RJ Mitte, who portrayed a character with cerebral palsy on the acclaimed series Breaking Bad, passed away at 34, as confirmed by authorities and his representatives on Monday. According to Cameron County Justice of the Peace Cyndi Hinojosa, Mitte was pronounced dead around 1:30 p.m. at his presumed residence in Brownsville, Texas. While the cause of death remains undisclosed, an autopsy is scheduled to determine the circumstances.
Mitte’s portrayal of Walter White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston’s character in the hit AMC show, spanned all five seasons and earned critical acclaim. Having been diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of three, Mitte disclosed to The Associated Press in 2014 that his personal experiences with disability, physical therapy, family dynamics, and overwhelming medical expenses mirrored the challenges depicted on the show, enhancing his performance.
Born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Mitte ventured into acting in Los Angeles in 2006, securing minor roles in sitcoms before landing his breakthrough role in Breaking Bad in 2007 at the age of sixteen. The series aired from 2008 to 2013, solidifying Mitte’s reputation for authenticity and advocacy in disability awareness and inclusivity.
In a statement following his demise, Mitte’s representatives praised his commitment to challenging stereotypes and promoting representation in the entertainment industry. Co-star Bryan Cranston paid tribute to Mitte on Instagram, lauding him as a talented actor who exuded joy and dedication to his craft.
Mitte’s acting credits extended to shows like Switched at Birth and Guardians of Justice, while also venturing into producing independent films. Beyond his on-screen work, Mitte served as an ambassador for organizations like United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, in addition to presiding over the Mitte Foundation, which champions philanthropic causes and community initiatives related to disabilities.