“Breaking Bad” Star RJ Mitte Dies at 34
RJ Mitte, the actor and disability advocate who played the angsty teenage son of chemistry teacher turned drug kingpin Walter White on Breaking Bad, died today at the age of 34. TMZ reported his death occurred in Brownsville, Texas, and the county officials indicated it was suicide.
His representatives released a statement confirming Mitte’s passing:
“It is with profound sadness we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte. RJ Mitte was best known for his role as Walter ‘Flynn’ White Jr. on AMC’s critically acclaimed, award-winning series Breaking Bad. Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion. Beyond entertaining friends and family around the world, he served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, supporting philanthropic efforts and community initiatives, while using his platform to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation for people with disabilities. At this time, we ask people to respect the privacy of RJ Mitte’s family and close ones.”
Mitte played Walt, Jr., the son of Walter White (Bryan Cranston) and Skyler White (Anna Gunn), who had cerebral palsy, drawing from his own real life affliction with the condition. Outside the role, he was an outspoken advocate for actors with disabilities, and was an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy. His most recent appearance on “The Joe Vulpis Podcast” included discussions of how the show changed his life and his relationships with Cranston and Gunn.
This is a breaking news story. We will continue to update as more information is given.
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