Acclaimed Breaking Bad actor RJ Mitte, whose full name was Roy Frank ‘RJ’ Mitte III, has died at 34.
On Monday (Oct. 12), TMZ reported that Mitte, who played Walter White’s son, Walter White Jr., throughout all five seasons of Breaking Bad, died by suicide in Brownsville, Texas. An investigation into his death is ongoing, and his representatives have since confirmed the news.
“It is with profound sadness we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte,” his representatives said. “RJ Mitte was best known for his role as Walter ‘Flynn’ White Jr. on AMC’s critically acclaimed, award-winning series Breaking Bad. Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion. Beyond entertaining friends and family around the world, he served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s.”
Mitte also appeared in several television series, including Switched at Birth, Now Apocalypse and The Guardians of Justice (Will Save You!). Beyond acting, he was a passionate disability rights advocate who used his personal experiences with cerebral palsy to raise awareness. His Breaking Bad character, Walter White Jr., also had cerebral palsy, helping bring greater visibility to the condition through a prominent television role.
Shortly before his death, Mitte appeared on The Joe Vulpis Podcast, where he discussed his time on Breaking Bad and the close relationships he developed with the cast and crew. He also shared photos on social media featuring his Breaking Bad co-star Luis Moncada, who portrayed one of the Salamanca cousins in the series and its spin-off, Better Call Saul.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, support is available. In the U.S. and Canada, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. If you’re in another country, reach out to local emergency services or a suicide crisis hotline for assistance.
