RJ Mitte, the actor best known for playing Walter White Jr. in the award-winning TV series 'Breaking Bad', has died at the age of 34. His representatives confirmed his death on Monday, but the cause of death was not immediately revealed. Mitte lived with cerebral palsy and was not only an actor but also a philanthropist and passionate disability rights advocate.
Mitte first appeared in 'Breaking Bad' in 2008 as the son of chemistry-teacher-turned-drug-kingpin Walter White, a role that won Bryan Cranston global acclaim. Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion. His portrayal of Walter White Jr. helped raise awareness about cerebral palsy and disability rights.
Mitte's campaigning evolved into working as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and for Shriners Children's, a non-profit hospital network. He also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, supporting philanthropic efforts and community initiatives, while using his platform to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation for people with disabilities. Mitte's advocacy work had a significant impact on the disability community.
'Breaking Bad', which ran for five seasons between 2008 and 2013, is routinely acclaimed as groundbreaking television, and was recently named by The New York Times as the best TV show of the 21st century. The show's success can be attributed in part to Mitte's performance, which added depth and nuance to the series. Mitte's co-stars have paid tribute to his talent and advocacy work.
Co-stars rushed to pay tribute to Mitte, with Aaron Paul – who played Jesse Pinkman, White's young partner in crime – saying he was "at a loss" over the news. Paul expressed his love for Mitte and encouraged those reading his message to know they are loved and not alone. Dean Norris, who starred in the series as Mitte's on-screen uncle, also paid tribute, saying he was "heartbroken" by the news of Mitte's death.
Fellow actor and disability campaigner Marlee Matlin, who appeared with Mitte in 'Cinemability: The Art of Inclusion', a documentary that examined the history of disability portrayals in US film and television, said her heart was "shattered." Matlin, who became the first deaf actress to win an Oscar, remembered Mitte as a unique individual who will always have a place in her heart.
Tributes continue to pour in for Mitte, who will be greatly missed by his colleagues and the disability community. His legacy as an actor and advocate will continue to inspire and promote greater representation for people with disabilities. Mitte's death serves as a reminder of the importance of his work and the impact he had on the entertainment industry and beyond.
Key points
- RJ Mitte, the actor best known for playing Walter White Jr. in 'Breaking Bad', has died at the age of 34.
- Mitte was a passionate disability rights advocate and philanthropist who used his platform to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation for people with disabilities.
- Co-stars and fellow actors have paid tribute to Mitte, remembering him as a talented actor and advocate who will be greatly missed.
