RJ Mitte, "Breaking Bad" Star, Dies by Suicide at 34
In his final interview, the actor reflected on his most challenging "Breaking Bad" scene and his hopes for his character's future.
RJ Mitte, best known for his role as Walter White Jr. in the acclaimed television series "Breaking Bad," died by suicide on Monday in Texas. He was 34.
Mitte's death occurred just two weeks after he participated in an interview on The Joe Vulpis Podcast, recorded on October 5, where he discussed his iconic role and his thoughts on the series.
In the podcast interview, Mitte reflected on what he considered his most complicated scene: a final phone call with his onscreen father, Walter White, played by Bryan Cranston. "It's the last time he talks to him. In reality, I didn't understand it as much as I do now," Mitte said, explaining the character's dawning realization that his father was the drug lord Heisenberg, a murderer. "That realization for him was something that I really wanted to make sure that I met those criteria." He credited the directors, Vince Gilligan, and Cranston, who was present for the scene, for helping him navigate its complexities.
Mitte also shared that he found watching himself on screen difficult, as any perceived mistake would lead him to "dwell and spiral." He stated that he only watched the first episode of each "Breaking Bad" season and the final episode of the last season.
When asked about the future of Walter White's family, Mitte expressed a somber outlook. He did not believe Skyler, Walt Jr., and Holly were in a good place, suggesting they likely did not receive the drug money. "I see it more like a sadness and a despair, and that they don't get the money," he said. Mitte reasoned that law enforcement would closely monitor the family of a major drug distributor like Heisenberg.
Mitte's audition for "Breaking Bad" was an extensive process, lasting over six months. He described the role of Walt Jr. as "unbelievable" and "truly life-changing," acknowledging the show's profound impact and stating, "I spent my teenage life in Breaking Bad."
The actor also discussed his belief that the story of the White family was not entirely concluded after the series finale. "I don't think it was end. That was really the end of Heisenberg's journey but I don't think that was the end of Skyler, Walt, and Holly's journey," he commented, suggesting there were "unanswered questions" for the family.
Mitte, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age three, was a vocal advocate for actors and entertainment industry professionals with disabilities. He emphasized the need for greater representation and inclusion, stating in 2016, "I would love to switch on my TV and see a disabled person talking about something they are genuinely interested in or acting out a part that doesn’t just focus on their impairment."
"Breaking Bad" aired for five seasons from 2008 to 2013. Mitte appeared in 56 episodes. His representative stated that Mitte was best known for his role as Walter "Flynn" White Jr., and that he "brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion."
Beyond his acting career, Mitte was engaged to Kennedy Suarez, with whom he lived in Brownsville, Texas. He was also president of The Mitte Foundation, a charity focused on revitalizing marginalized communities in South Texas.
A county official confirmed Mitte's death to TMZ, and a death investigation is ongoing.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US on 988. There is also an online chat available at 988lifeline.org.