Actor RJ Mitte died on Monday at the age of 34. He was best known for playing Walter White Jr., the disabled son of a meth kingpin, in the acclaimed TV series Breaking Bad.

He featured in all five seasons of Breaking Bad, which ran from 2008 to 2013.

How Did RJ Mitte Die?

RJ Mitte lived with cerebral palsy. The actor's rep confirmed his death by suicide, according to Variety.

His death in Brownsville, Texas, was confirmed in a statement from the talent management agency that represented him.

"It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte."

From Walt Jr. To Disability Rights Advocate

Mitte first appeared in Breaking Bad in 2008, when he was a teenager. He played the son of Walter White, a chemistry teacher turned drug kingpin. The role earned Bryan Cranston global praise.

He used his own life with cerebral palsy to shape the role, according to the statement. "Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion."

(Image: Instagram/@rjmitte)

Over time, this work grew into advocacy. He became an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and for Shriners Children’s, a nonprofit hospital network.

The statement also spoke about his charity work. "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.

He also worked as a Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) spokesman for performers with disabilities.

ALSO READ - Top 10 Web Series Like Breaking Bad To Watch If You Love Crime And Thrillers

Tributes Pour In For RJ Mitte

RJ Mitte's co-stars were quick to pay tribute.

Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, White's young partner in crime, said he was 'at a loss' over the news.

"RJ, I love you, my friend. You will be missed. And to whoever happens to be reading this, please know you are loved, and you are not alone. Always remember that," he said, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Actor Dean Norris, who played his uncle on the show, said he was heartbroken to hear about the young man's death.

"Though RJ didn't play my TV son, I always looked out for him as a young kid on set. He was a sweetheart of a young man and will be greatly missed. This is so heartbreaking; I can't believe it. Thinking of him and his family."

About Breaking Bad

It follows Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher with a terminal illness who enters the criminal world by making crystal meth. As the story goes on, Walter White Jr.’s bond with his father grows more strained, and the truth about his father’s secret identity, Heisenberg, comes out.

ALSO READ - Top 10 Highest-Rated Thriller Series Globally: Breaking Bad, Chernobyl, Sherlock And More

Critics widely rank Breaking Bad among television's greatest dramas. The series ran from 2008 to 2013 and won 16 Emmy Awards, including two for outstanding drama series.

DISCLAIMER: If you or anyone you know needs help, please reach out to one of these helpline numbers: 022-27546669 (Aasra, Mumbai), +91 44 2464 0050 (Sneha, Chennai), 011-23389090, (Sumaitri, Delhi), 040-66202000 (Roshni, Hyderabad) , +91 11 41198666 (Sangath Tele-Counselling), 1800-599-0019 (Kiran), +918422984528, +91 8422984529 and +91 8422984530 (Samaritans), +91 8448440632 (Manodarpan), 14416 and 1800-891-4416 (Tele-MANAS)

FAQ

1. What is RJ Mitte most famous for?

RJ Mitte is best known for his role as Walter 'Flynn' White Jr. in all five seasons of the hit AMC drama series Breaking Bad.

2. Did RJ Mitte actually have cerebral palsy in real life?

Yes, Mitte was diagnosed with mild cerebral palsy at age three. While his character on Breaking Bad had a more severe form of the condition and required crutches, Mitte drew directly from his personal life experiences for the role.

3. What other work did RJ Mitte do outside of acting?

Beyond acting in shows like Switched at Birth and The Guardians of Justice, Mitte was a prominent disability rights advocate.