By Ayomide Otitoju
RJ Mitte, the actor best known for playing Walter White Jr. in the award-winning television series Breaking Bad, has died at the age of 34, his representatives told AFP on Monday.
The cause of death was not immediately disclosed.
A statement issued by Sean Reilly described Mitte as a beloved actor, philanthropist and disability rights advocate.
Mitte rose to prominence in 2008 when he joined Breaking Bad as the son of Walter White, a chemistry teacher who becomes a drug kingpin, played by Bryan Cranston.
Drawing on his experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and used his public profile to promote disability awareness and inclusion.
His advocacy work included serving as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, a non-profit hospital network. He also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, supporting philanthropic and community initiatives while promoting better representation of people with disabilities.
Breaking Bad, which ran for five seasons from 2008 to 2013, is widely regarded as one of television’s most influential dramas. The New York Times recently ranked it as the best television show of the 21st century.
Following news of his death, co-stars paid tribute to the actor.
Cranston recalled that Mitte was 14 when the series began filming, praising his determination in adapting to the demands of the production schedule.
In an Instagram post, Cranston said Mitte had been relatively inexperienced when filming began in February 2007 but gradually developed into a fine actor.
Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, Walter White’s partner in crime, said he was at a loss following the news.
“RJ, I love you, my friend. You will be missed,” Paul said, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Dean Norris, who played Hank Schrader, the Drug Enforcement Administration agent and Walter White Jr.’s on-screen uncle, also expressed his grief.
Norris said he had looked out for Mitte when he was a young actor on the set of the series.
Mitte’s work on screen and his advocacy for people with disabilities helped raise awareness about inclusion and representation in the entertainment industry.
