Tragedy struck Hollywood on Monday with the death of RJ Mitte, the actor and disability advocate best known for playing Walter White Jr. on “Breaking Bad,” at the age of 34. “It is with great sadness that we share the tragic death of beloved actor, philanthropist and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte,” the actor’s reps said in a statement announcing the news.
Mitte was born in Jackson, Mississippi in 1992 and moved to Los Angeles in 2006 to pursue an acting career. He rose to prominence for his role on “Breaking Bad” beginning in 2008 and appeared in 57 episodes during the show’s five-season run.
After being diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was three years old, Mitte devoted much of his personal and professional life to advocating for disabled actors. He was a spokesperson for SAG-AFTRA on topics related to accessibility and disability portrayals and served as a celebrity ambassador for the United Cerebral Palsy organization.
Mitte’s tragic death sparked an outpouring of support among his fellow actors Monday afternoon, with many remembering him as a talented actor and compassionate public speaker who never stood back from what he believed was right. Tributes poured in from Mitte’s “Breaking Bad” colleagues, friends from his advocacy work, and fellow actors who admired his work from afar.
“My dedication is broken. There will never be another like RJ Mitte,” wrote Marlee Matlin, summarizing the thoughts of others. “You will always have a place in my heart.”
Keep reading for a summary of comments on Mitte’s death.
