RJ Mitte, the actor who won over millions of viewers as Walter White Jr. on the hit television series Breaking Bad, died by suicide Monday, October 12, at age 34.
Mitte was found dead at his home in Brownsville, Texas, after police received a call shortly before 1 p.m. His representative later confirmed his death and told PEOPLE that the actor had died by suicide. Authorities said their investigation remained ongoing, with an official medical determination still pending.
The heartbreaking news has devastated fans and former co-stars, including Bryan Cranston, who played Mitte’s father on the Emmy-winning AMC drama.
Cranston shared an emotional tribute on social media, describing his grief as “deep despair” and remembering the young actor he had watched grow up during their years working together.
The two developed a close relationship while filming the critically acclaimed series, which aired from 2008 to 2013. Cranston recalled Mitte’s determination, kindness, and ability to overcome obstacles while building his acting career.
“I’ll miss you, son,” Cranston wrote, ending his tribute with a heartbreaking farewell to his former television son.
Other Breaking Bad cast members, including Aaron Paul, Dean Norris, and Bob Odenkirk, also expressed their sadness. Odenkirk remembered Mitte as a compassionate person who genuinely cared about helping others.
Mitte was just a teenager when he landed the role of Walter “Flynn” White Jr., the son of Cranston’s chemistry teacher-turned-drug kingpin. His character became an important emotional center of the series, particularly as the White family unraveled.
Like his character, Mitte lived with cerebral palsy, a neurological condition affecting movement and coordination. Diagnosed at age 3, he became an outspoken advocate for people with disabilities and worked to challenge stereotypes in Hollywood.
Beyond acting, Mitte served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He was also president of The Mitte Foundation, a family-established charitable organization supporting community programs and cultural initiatives.
His acting career continued after Breaking Bad, with appearances in Switched at Birth, The Oak Room, and several other television and film projects.
Just weeks before his death, Mitte attended a September 30 screening of his film Talking to Strangers in Beverly Hills. He also recently appeared on a podcast discussing his career and memories of auditioning for Breaking Bad.
The actor had also been looking forward to a major milestone in his personal life.
In October 2025, Mitte announced his engagement to longtime girlfriend Kennedy Suarez after five years together. At the time, he spoke excitedly about their future and described her as his everything.
His sudden death has left the entertainment community mourning not only a talented performer but also a passionate advocate who dedicated much of his life to helping others.