Actor and advocate for disability rights, RJ Mitte, who portrayed a character with cerebral palsy on the acclaimed series “Breaking Bad,” passed away at the age of 34, as confirmed by authorities and his representatives on Monday. The Cameron County Justice of the Peace, Cyndi Hinojosa, stated that Mitte was pronounced dead around 1:30 p.m. at his presumed residence in Brownsville, Texas, without disclosing a cause of death. However, an autopsy is scheduled to determine the exact circumstances.
Famous for his role as Walter White Jr., the son of the character portrayed by Bryan Cranston on the hit AMC show, Mitte featured prominently throughout the show’s five-season run, which was recently voted as the best of the 21st century in a survey conducted by The New York Times. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of three, Mitte shared in a 2014 interview with The Associated Press that his personal experiences with disability, physical therapy, family challenges, and overwhelming medical expenses reflected themes central to the series and enhanced his performance.
Mitte, originally from Jackson, Mississippi, ventured into acting in 2006 upon relocating to Los Angeles, securing minor roles in sitcoms before landing the breakthrough role on “Breaking Bad” in 2007 as a teenager. The show aired from 2008 to 2013, establishing Mitte as a credible voice for disability awareness and inclusivity. His representatives praised him for using his platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for increased representation in the industry.
Co-star Bryan Cranston paid tribute to Mitte on Instagram, commending his talent and positive energy on set, expressing fond memories of their time together both during and after the series. Mitte’s professional credits extended beyond “Breaking Bad,” encompassing appearances in series like “Switched at Birth” and “Guardians of Justice,” in addition to his involvement as a producer in independent films.
In addition to his acting career, Mitte actively served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, while establishing the Mitte Foundation to support various philanthropic endeavors and community projects centered around disabilities.
