Bryan Cranston, 'Breaking Bad' Cast Mourn Death of Co-Star RJ Mitte
The actor, who played Walter White Jr. in the acclaimed series, died at age 34.
The cast of "Breaking Bad" is honoring their late co-star RJ Mitte, who died Monday at the age of 34. Mitte, an actor and disability rights advocate, was known for his role as Walter "Flynn" White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston and Anna Gunn's characters in the Emmy-winning drama.
Mitte's death was by suicide, his representative confirmed to multiple media outlets.
Bryan Cranston, who played Mitte's onscreen father, shared his grief on social media, describing the loss as "deep despair." He recalled meeting Mitte at 14 for the role of Walter White Jr., a part Mitte played with "such joy and enthusiasm." Cranston noted that Mitte, like his character, had cerebral palsy but never allowed it to be an excuse, meeting the demanding shooting schedule with determination.
"That kid was pretty raw when we started shooting the pilot in February of 2007, but little by little we watched him grow into a really fine actor," Cranston wrote. He highlighted how Mitte used his platform to advocate for disability rights.
Cranston expressed his devastation upon learning of Mitte's suicide, noting they had plans to meet for lunch just weeks prior. "I'll miss you, son," he concluded.
Aaron Paul, who portrayed Jesse Pinkman, also issued a statement expressing his heartbreak and love for Mitte. "RJ, I love you my friend. You will be missed," Paul wrote, adding a message of support for anyone struggling: "Always remember that you are loved, and you are not alone."
Dean Norris, who played Hank Schrader, expressed his shock and sadness on X, formerly Twitter. "Oh my God! Was working just found out about RJ I am heartbroken," Norris wrote. "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."
Resources for mental health support are available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which can be reached by calling or texting 988 in the U.S. and Canada, or by chatting at 988lifeline.org. International resources can be found through the International Association for Suicide Prevention.