Bob Odenkirk Mourns "Simply, Deeply Sad" Death of Breaking Bad Co-Star RJ Mitte

Bob Odenkirk, who portrayed Saul Goodman in the acclaimed AMC series "Breaking Bad," shared a heartfelt tribute to his former co-star RJ Mitte, who tragically passed away at age 34 on October 12.

Mitte, known for his role as Walter White Jr. on the show, died on Monday in Texas. A death investigation is ongoing, with one source telling TMZ that the actor died by suicide.

Odenkirk, 63, described Mitte as a "good person who shared his personal story and his time to help out others." He added, "Whenever I saw him, he was meeting the world with positivity and a strong desire to connect. This is simply, deeply sad."

Other "Breaking Bad" cast members also expressed their grief. Bryan Cranston, who played Mitte's onscreen father, Walter White, stated he was "in deep despair." Cranston revealed that he and Mitte had been texting and making plans to meet for lunch, making the news especially devastating.

"RJ Mitte, my sweet son on Breaking Bad has died," Cranston wrote in an Instagram tribute. "I met him when he was only 14 years old when he was cast as Walter White Jr., a part he played with such joy and enthusiasm."

Cranston noted Mitte's resilience, having been diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age three. "He never - ever - allowed that challenge to be an excuse for anything," Cranston said. "He met the demanding shooting schedule head on with great determination."

Cranston also highlighted Mitte's advocacy work. "He parlayed his experience on the show to be a vocal advocate for performers with disabilities, and was the head of a philanthropic organization with a focus on helping the disabled community. All that promise and potential now is such a loss."

Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, shared his heartbreak on X, stating, "I am at a loss. I am heartbroken over this news. RJ, I love you my friend. You will be missed."

Dean Norris, who portrayed Hank Schrader, also posted on X: "Oh my God! Was working just found out about RJ. I am heartbroken. 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. This is so heartbreaking, I can’t believe it."

Mitte's representative confirmed his passing to TMZ, stating, "It is with profound sadness we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte."

Mitte appeared in 56 episodes of "Breaking Bad" from 2008 to 2013. He continued to advocate for the representation of disabled actors in entertainment and led The Mitte Foundation, a charity focused on supporting marginalized communities.

His death comes a year after he became engaged to his girlfriend, Kennedy Suarez. In an interview with People, Mitte expressed his excitement about their future together.

Mitte's last red carpet appearance was on September 30 at the premiere of his film "Talking to Strangers."

If you or someone you know needs help, call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US at 988.