American actor RJ Mitte, best known for playing Walter White Jr. in the television series Breaking Bad, has died at the age of 34.
Mitte died on Monday in Brownsville, Texas, according to reports confirmed by his representatives and a local official.
His representatives announced his passing in a statement, describing him as a beloved actor, philanthropist, and disability rights advocate.
“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte,” the statement read.
Mitte rose to international prominence through his role as Walter White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston’s character in the acclaimed television drama Breaking Bad, which ran for five seasons from 2008 to 2013.
Drawing on his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the character and helped raise awareness about disability representation in the entertainment industry.
Beyond acting, he was an advocate for disability inclusion and served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He also served as president of the Mitte Foundation, which supported philanthropic initiatives.
Mitte continued working in film and television after Breaking Bad and had recently been promoting his film Talking to Strangers.
His death has prompted tributes from across the entertainment industry, with colleagues and fans remembering his work on screen and his advocacy for people with disabilities.
His cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
