RJ Mitte, 'Breaking Bad' Actor and Disability Advocate, Dies at 34
The actor, known for his role as Walter White Jr., died by suicide at his Texas home, prompting reflections on Hollywood's treatment of actors with disabilities.
RJ Mitte, an actor best known for his role as Walter White Jr. in the acclaimed television series "Breaking Bad," died by suicide at his home in Brownsville, Texas, on Monday. He was 34. Officials confirmed the cause of death, though no further details were provided.
Mitte, who was born with cerebral palsy, often spoke about the challenges he faced in Hollywood due to his disability. He publicly criticized the industry's focus on physical perfection and privately expressed frustration over being passed over for roles that casting directors intended for able-bodied actors. His death has led to introspection within the entertainment industry regarding its values and inclusivity.
Bryan Cranston, who played Mitte's on-screen father in "Breaking Bad," shared his grief on Instagram, describing Mitte as his "sweet son" and expressing his deep despair. Cranston recalled meeting Mitte at age 14 for the role, a character originally slated for early cancellation but who ultimately appeared in all five seasons of the series. Cranston praised Mitte's determination, noting that he never allowed his cerebral palsy to be an excuse and met the demanding shooting schedule with great resolve.
Cranston also shared that he and Mitte had been texting weeks before his death, arranging to meet for lunch. "I don't know if that lunch would have changed his future… but I do know that I loved him," Cranston wrote.
Just days before his death, Mitte gave an interview where he stated, "I live life to the fullest… I always try. I have a very finite amount of time." In private messages to friends, he discussed the difficulties he encountered in securing acting parts, expressing his frustration that casting agents and directors were often unwilling to consider him for non-disabled roles, sometimes making them "uncomfortable."
Mitte's career extended beyond "Breaking Bad." He appeared in films and TV shows such as "The Guardians of Justice" and had roles in low-budget thrillers and horror films. He also participated in reality television and modeled for brands like Gap and Vivienne Westwood. His most recent film, the independent romantic drama "Talking To Strangers," premiered just 12 days before his death.
Born in Mississippi and raised in Texas and Louisiana, Mitte overcame significant adversity from a young age. He was adopted and later learned his adoptive parents were not his birth parents. His mother became paralyzed in a car accident shortly after his younger sister, Lacey, was born, leaving Mitte to help care for her. The family eventually moved to Los Angeles when Lacey began acting, and Mitte followed, working as an extra before landing his breakout role.
As an advocate for cerebral palsy, Mitte addressed audiences at institutions like the Oxford Union, encouraging both the industry and disabled individuals to challenge perceptions and limitations.
Support for those struggling with mental health issues is available. In the UK, the Samaritans can be contacted at 116 123 or via their website at samaritans.org.