Breaking Bad star RJ Mitte has died aged 34, with his spokesperson confirming he took his own life. The Brownsville Police Department received a call at 12:50pm local time, and Mitte was found dead upon arrival.
Investigation underway
"The cause and manner of death are still pending, as there is currently an ongoing investigation," police said. A judge later declared Mitte dead at 1:32pm local time. A medical examiner will now determine the official cause of death, following an autopsy. There was no sign of foul play.
The actor, who starred as Walter White Jr. in the hit show alongside Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, died in Texas. In a statement, his spokesperson said: "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte."
Co-star tributes
His on-screen father, Bryan Cranston, shared his heartbreak at the news, revealing that the pair had been texting in recent weeks and had arranged to meet for lunch. Cranston wrote: "I'm in deep despair as I write this tonight. RJ Mitte, my sweet son on Breaking Bad, has died. I met him when he was only 14 years old, when he was cast as Walter White Jr., a part he played with such joy and enthusiasm. Born with Cerebral Palsy, he never – ever – allowed that challenge to be an excuse for anything."
Cranston added: "It is especially devastating to hear that he took his own life. Why? We were texting each other just a few weeks ago – figuring out when we could meet for lunch. I don't know if that lunch would have changed his future… But I do know that I loved him, and thoroughly enjoyed being with him throughout the years on the series, and after the spotlight on Breaking Bad dimmed… I'll miss you, son."
Final public appearance
Just days before his death, Mitte walked the red carpet for the premiere of Talking To Strangers on September 30, posing for photographs at the Fine Arts Theatre in Beverly Hills.
Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion. If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123.
