Breaking Bad actor RJ Mitte died by suicide at age 34, his representative has confirmed. Mitte, who played Walter White Jr in the hit drama series, was found dead at his home by Brownsville Police Department after a call at 12.50pm on Monday, according to People.
Co-stars pay tribute
His on-screen father Bryan Cranston shared a heartbreaking tribute, revealing the pair had been exchanging messages and arranging to meet for lunch in the weeks before Mitte's death. Cranston wrote: "I'm in deep despair as I write this tonight. RJ Mitte, my sweet son on Breaking Bad has died."
Cranston recalled meeting Mitte when he was 14 and praised his determination: "Born with Cerebral Palsy, he never – ever – allowed that challenge to be an excuse for anything. He met the demanding shooting schedule head on with great determination."
Career and advocacy
Mitte appeared in all five seasons of Breaking Bad, which ran from 2008 to 2013. Like his character, he had cerebral palsy. Cranston noted that Mitte became "a vocal advocate for performers with disabilities" and led "a philanthropic organization with a focus on helping the disabled community."
Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, told The Hollywood Reporter: "I am at a loss. I am heartbroken over this news. RJ, I love you my friend. You will be missed. And to whoever happens to be reading this, please know you are loved, and you are not alone. Always remember that."
Representative's statement
Mitte's representative said: "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte. Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion."
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