RJ Mitte, "Breaking Bad" Actor, Dies at 34
Mitte, known for his role as Walter White Jr. and his advocacy for disability rights, was engaged to HR generalist Kennedy Suarez.
RJ Mitte, the actor best known for his portrayal of Walter White Jr. in the acclaimed television series "Breaking Bad," has died at the age of 34. A county official confirmed to TMZ that Mitte passed away on Monday in Texas, and a death investigation is currently ongoing. The outlet also reported that Mitte died by suicide.
Mitte was engaged to his longtime girlfriend, HR generalist Kennedy Suarez. He had proposed to Suarez on October 10, 2025, which coincided with her 30th birthday. "I'm thrilled to have found my person, my partner in life who makes me want to be better, no matter what we're doing," Mitte told People magazine at the time of their engagement. "Kennedy is my everything, and I can't wait to officially start our life together and see what adventures life takes us on next."
Mitte and Suarez had been friends for over a decade before their relationship turned romantic. Suarez, who works remotely in human resources, would often travel with Mitte to support his career endeavors. Following their engagement, Suarez shared on Instagram, "My 30th felt like a fairytale." Mitte also posted about their engagement, expressing his gratitude for Suarez's "unconditional love" and support through all of life's challenges.
The actor, who lived with cerebral palsy, proposed at the 56th annual Dia del Sol 2025 benefit in Carlsbad, California. This fundraiser supported United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) of San Diego, where Mitte served as an ambassador.
Mitte gained recognition for his role in "Breaking Bad," appearing in 56 episodes from 2008 to 2013. He was lauded for bringing authenticity to the character of Walter White Jr., drawing from his own experiences with cerebral palsy. Beyond his acting career, Mitte was a passionate advocate for disability awareness and inclusion, serving as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He often called for greater representation of disabled actors both in front of and behind the camera.
"I wouldn’t be in the position I am in today without my disability," Mitte stated in a 2016 interview. "I utilized everything I know about living with cerebral palsy for my role in Breaking Bad."
Born in Mississippi, Mitte discovered he was adopted at age six. His family resided in Brownsville, Texas, and he was also the president of The Mitte Foundation, a family charity focused on revitalizing marginalized communities in South Texas.
Mitte's representatives stated, "It is with profound sadness we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte." They highlighted his role in "Breaking Bad" and his dedication to disability awareness.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. on 988. There is also an online chat available at 988lifeline.org.