Actor and advocate for disability rights, RJ Mitte, known for his portrayal of a character with cerebral palsy on the hit series “Breaking Bad,” passed away at the age of 34 on Monday, as confirmed by officials and his representatives. Cameron County Justice of the Peace Cyndi Hinojosa disclosed that Mitte was pronounced dead around 1:30 p.m. at his presumed residence in Brownsville, Texas. The cause of death remains undisclosed pending an autopsy.
Mitte, who depicted Walter White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston’s character on “Breaking Bad,” throughout the show’s five seasons, credited his personal experiences with cerebral palsy for enhancing his performance. Diagnosed at the age of three, Mitte shared in a 2014 interview that his own struggles with physical therapy, family issues, and substantial medical expenses resonated with the themes explored on the show.
Raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Mitte relocated to Los Angeles in pursuit of an acting career in 2006. He began working on “Breaking Bad” in 2007, portraying a character close to his actual age. The show aired from 2008 to 2013, garnering critical acclaim and a large following.
Mitte’s representatives acknowledged his contribution to raising awareness about disabilities and fostering inclusivity. They highlighted his efforts to challenge stereotypes and advocate for increased representation in media. Co-star Bryan Cranston expressed his admiration for Mitte, praising his talent and positive energy both on and off the set.
In addition to his role on “Breaking Bad,” Mitte appeared in TV series such as “Switched at Birth” and “Guardians of Justice.” He also ventured into producing independent films. Beyond his acting career, Mitte was actively involved in various advocacy initiatives, notably as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, as well as through his own philanthropic organization, the Mitte Foundation.