'Breaking Bad' Actor and Disability Advocate Dies by Suicide
Andrew Powell · Oct 14, 2026 · 2 min read
RJ Mitte, the actor who portrayed Walter White Jr. on AMC’s “Breaking Bad,” has died by suicide at age 34, his representative confirmed to Fox News Digital.
According to Fox News, Mitte died Monday at his home in Brownsville, Texas. The Cameron County Justice of the Peace previously said an autopsy would be performed.
His representative confirmed the cause of death after the actor’s passing was initially announced by his family.
“Sadly, we can confirm that suicide was the cause of death,” the representative told Fox News Digital.
Mitte became widely known for playing Walter “Flynn” White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston’s Walter White, throughout all five seasons of “Breaking Bad.” He appeared in 56 episodes of the critically acclaimed AMC series.
The role also became closely connected to Mitte’s life outside the show. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a child, he used his experience to advocate for disability awareness, inclusion and greater representation.
In a statement shared by journalist Markos Papadatos, Mitte’s family described him as an actor, philanthropist and passionate disability rights advocate. He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s and was president of The Mitte Foundation, which supported philanthropic and community efforts.
His death brought tributes from several of his former “Breaking Bad” co-stars.
Cranston, who played Mitte’s on-screen father, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, remembering Mitte as a joyful young actor who joined the series at 14. Cranston also praised his advocacy work and said the two had remained close following the show’s conclusion.
Cranston revealed that he and Mitte had recently talked about having lunch together. Reflecting on their final conversations, he wondered whether seeing each other might have changed what happened.
“But I do know that I loved him,” Cranston wrote. “I’ll miss you, son.”
Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, also expressed his grief in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter.
“I am at a loss. I am heartbroken over this news. RJ, I love you my friend. You will be missed,” Paul said. He also urged anyone reading his message to remember that they are loved and not alone.
Just days before his death, Mitte appeared on “The Joe Vulpis Podcast,” discussing his career and advocacy work. During the episode, released Oct. 5, he spoke about making the most of his time and described the platform provided by “Breaking Bad” as an opportunity to support causes affecting people with disabilities.
Mitte also appeared in “Switched at Birth,” “The Guardians of Justice,” “Hannah Montana” and “Everybody Hates Chris.”