RJ Mitte, the actor who won over millions of viewers as Walter White Jr. on the hit television series “Breaking Bad,” has died at just 34 years old.
Mitte died Monday, October 12, in Brownsville, Texas. Cameron County Justice of the Peace Cyndi Hinojosa confirmed that the actor was pronounced dead at approximately 1:30 p.m., according to The Associated Press.
TMZ reported that Mitte died by suicide, citing information from a county official. However, authorities have not publicly confirmed an official cause or manner of death, and the investigation remains ongoing.
His representatives confirmed the heartbreaking news in a statement, remembering Mitte as a talented performer, philanthropist and dedicated advocate for people with disabilities.
They praised his groundbreaking portrayal of Walter “Flynn” White Jr. on AMC’s critically acclaimed drama, noting that his personal experience with cerebral palsy helped bring authenticity to the character.
Mitte became a household name when “Breaking Bad” premiered in 2008. He appeared in 56 episodes across the show’s five seasons, playing the teenage son of Bryan Cranston’s character, Walter White, and Anna Gunn’s Skyler White.
As Walter White descended deeper into the criminal underworld, Mitte’s character became an emotional centerpiece of the series, particularly as the family struggled with the consequences of his father’s actions.
Born in 1992, Mitte was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age 3. Rather than allowing the condition to define his career, he became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable voices for disability inclusion.
His advocacy extended well beyond television. He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, organizations dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities and serious medical conditions.
He also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, supporting charitable programs and community initiatives while working to challenge stereotypes surrounding disabilities.
Following his success on “Breaking Bad,” Mitte continued acting in projects including “The Oak Room,” “The Recall,” “Switched at Birth” and Netflix’s “The Guardians of Justice.”
The actor remained professionally active in the weeks leading up to his death and had several upcoming projects in development.
His passing also comes during what appeared to be an exciting chapter in his personal life. Mitte became engaged to his longtime girlfriend, Kennedy Suarez, in 2025 after several years together.
Just days before his death, Mitte was seen spending time with former “Breaking Bad” costar Luis Moncada. The two appeared smiling in social media photos shared earlier this month.
Mitte had previously spoken openly about the challenges disabled performers face in Hollywood, urging the entertainment industry to provide more meaningful opportunities and representation.
In a 2019 interview with TMZ, he emphasized the importance of casting actors with disabilities rather than overlooking them for major roles.
His sudden death has prompted emotional tributes from fellow actors, including “Breaking Bad” costars who remembered his kindness, talent and commitment to helping others.
Although his career was cut tragically short, Mitte leaves behind a lasting legacy through one of television’s most celebrated dramas and his years of work promoting greater opportunities for people with disabilities.
His family has requested privacy as loved ones mourn his loss.
If you or someone you know is struggling or experiencing a mental health crisis, confidential help is available 24 hours a day by calling or texting 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.