'Breaking Bad' actor and disability advocate RJ Mitte dies
Quick Look
- American actor RJ Mitte, known for portraying Walter White Jr. in 'Breaking Bad,' died at age 34.
- His management agency confirmed his passing, noting his work as a disability rights advocate and ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Hospitals for Children.
- No further details about the circumstances of his death were provided.
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Why It Matters
RJ Mitte was an American actor best known for his role as Walter White Jr. in the television series 'Breaking Bad.' He lived with cerebral palsy, which he incorporated into his performance, and was an advocate for disability rights through his work with United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Hospitals for Children.
American actor RJ Mitte, whose lived experience with cerebral palsy was channeled into a key role in "Breaking Bad," died on Monday at the age of 34.
"It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte," his management agency said in a statement.
No other details about the circumstances of his death were given.
In addition to his breakout role in in "Breaking Bad" and later credits including "Switched at Birth" and "Guardians of Justice," Mitte also served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Hospitals for Children.
An 'authentic' breakout role
In "Breaking Bad," Mitte played Walter White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston's character, chemistry teacher-turned-meth dealer Walter White. Mitte's character used crutches and spoke with a slur, and gained greater prominence as the series progressed.
"Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion," the statement said.
"Breaking Bad" ran from 2008 until 2023. With 16 Emmy awards, it's often cited by critics as one of the best television dramas of all time.
Shortly after the series wrapped up, Mitte told the Associated Press that his disability and the surrounding struggles with physical therapy, family problems and exorbitant medical bills — all of which featured in the show — made him better in his role.
"You develop a different mentality and you develop a different look at how the world sees you and how you see the world," he said in 2024.
"You're able to use that. And I think it's an asset instead of something that would hinder," Mitte added.
Edited by: Dmytro Hubenko
Open Questions
- What were the exact circumstances of RJ Mitte's death?
- Was there any prior illness or health complication leading to his passing?
