Actor and disability rights advocate RJ Mitte, known for his role as Walter White Jr. on the acclaimed series “Breaking Bad,” passed away at the age of 34 in Brownsville, Texas, according to authorities and his representatives. Cameron County Justice of the Peace Cyndi Hinojosa confirmed Mitte’s death at around 1:30 p.m. at his residence. The cause of death is yet to be determined pending an autopsy.
Mitte, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of three, portrayed the son of Bryan Cranston’s character on “Breaking Bad” throughout its five-season run. He spoke about how his personal experiences with disability and the challenges he faced, such as physical therapy and financial burdens, helped him bring authenticity to his character.
Born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Mitte ventured into acting in Los Angeles in 2006, securing minor roles before landing his breakout role on “Breaking Bad.” His portrayal of Walter White Jr. resonated with audiences and contributed to raising awareness about disability inclusion.
His representatives praised Mitte for using his platform to advocate for disability rights and challenge stereotypes. Co-star Bryan Cranston fondly remembered Mitte as a talented actor who brought joy and passion to the set.
In addition to his work on “Breaking Bad,” Mitte appeared in TV series like “Switched at Birth” and “Guardians of Justice.” He also delved into film production and was actively involved in various charitable endeavors supporting individuals with disabilities.
Mitte’s advocacy extended beyond his acting career, as he served as an ambassador for organizations like United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, while also founding the Mitte Foundation to champion philanthropic initiatives within the disability community.