RJ Mitte's Upcoming Film Paused After 'Breaking Bad' Star's Death at 34

RJ Mitte's planned film, "Forgotten Outlaw," has been put on hold following the "Breaking Bad" actor's death at age 34. The film, which was in pre-production, was paused after Mitte died by suicide on Monday, according to TMZ. Director Nik Tizekker told the publication that he intends to move forward with the movie to honor Mitte's wishes and is working to recast the role and secure additional funding. Mitte was reportedly instrumental in the fundraising efforts prior to his death.

Tizekker described Mitte as perfect for the role, citing both his understanding of the character and his physical resemblance to the person he was to portray. Mitte had already filmed scenes for the project, which was approximately halfway completed before his passing. Tizekker also revealed that he and Mitte were collaborating on a limited series titled "Like It Was Yesterday," focusing on near-death experiences.

Podcaster Joe Vulpis, who conducted Mitte's final interview two weeks before his death, expressed his shock at the news. Vulpis told TMZ that Mitte was making plans for the future and appeared positive and grounded during their conversation. Mitte had spoken about future projects, his charitable work, and had recently signed on for another film, "Talking to Strangers."

In his final interview on "The Joe Vulpis Podcast" on October 5, Mitte reflected on his iconic role as Walter White Jr. in "Breaking Bad." He admitted that watching himself on screen made him "spiral" and that any perceived mistake would lead him to dwell on what he could have done differently. He shared that he only watched the first and last episodes of each "Breaking Bad" season.

Mitte detailed the challenges of filming his character's most complicated scene, a final phone call with his onscreen father, Walter White, played by Bryan Cranston. He recalled the pressure to accurately portray Walt Jr.'s realization that his father was the murderer of his uncle and his complex feelings surrounding the "Heisenberg" persona.

"Breaking Bad," which aired from 2008 to 2013, centered on Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with cancer who turns to manufacturing methamphetamine. Mitte played his teenage son, who has cerebral palsy, a condition the actor also lived with in real life. He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, advocating for disability awareness and inclusion in the entertainment industry.

Beyond "Breaking Bad," Mitte appeared in 56 episodes of the series and had roles in "The Recall" and "The Guardians of Justice (Will Save You!)." His representative stated that Mitte was known for bringing authenticity to his role and building a platform for disability awareness. He was also president of The Mitte Foundation, a charity focused on rejuvenating marginalized communities in South Texas.

Mitte's death occurred in Texas, and a death investigation is ongoing. A county official confirmed his passing to TMZ. Mitte was engaged to his girlfriend Kennedy Suarez, and the couple lived in Brownsville, Texas. He had recently proposed at a fundraising event for United Cerebral Palsy of San Diego.

Friends and colleagues remembered Mitte for his kindness and positivity. Vulpis described him as "one of the most kind and genuine people" he had met. Mitte's passing has been met with shock from those who knew him, with many remembering his dedication to his craft and his advocacy work.