RJ Mitte, ‘Breaking Bad’ Actor and Disability Rights Advocate, Dies at 34
RJ Mitte, who played Walter White Jr. on “Breaking Bad” and became one of Hollywood’s most visible advocates for people with disabilities, has died. He was 34.
Mitte died Monday, Oct. 12, in Brownsville, Texas, according to People. His representatives confirmed that he died by suicide.
Cameron County Justice of the Peace Cyndi Hinojosa said she declared Mitte dead at about 1:30 p.m. at what she believed was his home, and that an autopsy will be performed, CBC News reported. Law enforcement said its investigation into his death is ongoing.
In a statement, his representatives remembered him as a “beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate."
The Role That Changed His Life
Mitte rose to fame playing Walter White Jr., the teenage son of Bryan Cranston’s Walter White, across 56 episodes of “Breaking Bad,” which aired on AMC from 2008 to 2013.
Like his character, Mitte had cerebral palsy. He was diagnosed when he was 3 years old, and he brought that lived experience to one of television’s most acclaimed dramas, giving millions of viewers a rare chance to see a character with a disability portrayed by an actor who shared it. His representatives said he brought authenticity to the role and used it to build a platform for disability awareness and inclusion.
As news of his death spread, his former castmates shared their grief. Dean Norris, who played Mitte’s TV uncle Hank Schrader, called the news "so heartbreaking," Deadline reported.
A Life Spent Advocating for Others
Born Roy Frank Mitte III on Aug. 21, 1992, in Jackson, Mississippi, Mitte was adopted as a baby and raised largely by his mother.
After “Breaking Bad,” he became a leading voice for disability representation in entertainment. He worked with SAG-AFTRA on inclusion efforts, modeled for a Gap ad campaign in 2014 and spoke openly about growing up with cerebral palsy. He also served as president of the Mitte Foundation, which supports philanthropic and community initiatives for people with disabilities.
Mitte continued acting after the show ended, starring in films including “Who’s Driving Doug” in 2016. Just a day before his death, he had posted on social media to promote his latest film, the thriller “One Eye Open.”
Engaged Just Over a Year Ago
Mitte’s death comes just over a year after he proposed to Kennedy Suarez, his partner of five years.
He had also stayed connected with his “Breaking Bad” family over the years, reuniting with the cast at the SAG Awards in 2024.
Remembering RJ Mitte
For many fans, Mitte will be remembered not only for his memorable role on one of television’s greatest dramas, but for the way he used his platform to make the entertainment industry more inclusive.
His work helped open doors for actors with disabilities, and his advocacy reached far beyond the screen.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or chat at 988lifeline.org. In an emergency, call 911.
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