RJ Mitte, Breaking Bad Actor and Disability Advocate, Dies at 34

Actor RJ Mitte, known for his breakout role as Walter White Jr. on the AMC series Breaking Bad, died Monday in Brownsville, Texas. He was 34. His representatives announced the RJ Mitte death on Monday, confirming the passing but providing no cause.

Judge Cyndi Hinojosa, a Brownsville justice of the peace, declared Mitte dead at 1:32 p.m. She said she could not disclose the cause of death. Mitte’s representatives also did not provide one.

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A Role That Redefined Representation

Mitte was 15 when Breaking Bad debuted in January 2008. The series ran for five seasons, ending in 2013, and became an award-winning hit for AMC. In the show, Mitte portrayed Walter White Jr., the son of protagonist Walter White. Like Mitte, the character had cerebral palsy—a condition Mitte was diagnosed with at age 3.

His representatives said Mitte brought authenticity to the role from his own experience. That authenticity extended beyond acting: Mitte became a passionate advocate for disability rights, challenging stereotypes and promoting representation. He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, and was president of The Mitte Foundation.

From Mississippi to Hollywood

Born in Jackson, Mississippi, Mitte moved to Los Angeles at age 12 or 13. In a 2016 interview with VICE, he said he started acting to meet kids his own age. He credited his family for their support, telling The Big Issue in 2021 that some believed he would never walk or talk properly or have a typical life or career, but his family rejected those negative perceptions and encouraged him to pursue his goals.

Mitte also reflected on the early days of Breaking Bad, saying favorable media and critical reception helped keep the show on the air in its first season. Viewership grew in later seasons, he noted.

Film Credits and Philanthropy

Beyond television, Mitte starred in the 2017 sci-fi film The Recall and the 2020 horror film The Oak Room. His representatives remembered him as a beloved actor and philanthropist who built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion.

In Brownsville, where Mitte had moved, Judge Hinojosa said he would be very much missed and described him as gracious to the town.

Mitte’s representatives asked for privacy for his family and loved ones. No funeral or memorial plans have been announced.