American actor RJ Mitte, best known for playing Walter White Jr. in the acclaimed television series Breaking Bad, has died at the age of 34.   His representatives confirmed his death to AFP on Monday, October 12, 2026. The cause of death has not been disclosed. In a statement issued by his representative, Sean Reilly, Mitte was described as a beloved actor, philanthropist and passionate disability rights advocate. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte,” the statement said. Mitte rose to international prominence in 2008 when he joined Breaking Bad as Walter White Jr., the son of Walter White, a chemistry teacher who becomes a drug kingpin. The character was central to the personal and family storyline of the series, which starred Bryan Cranston in the lead role. RJ Mitte Championed Disability Awareness Mitte lived with cerebral palsy, and his personal experience helped shape his advocacy for disability awareness, inclusion and representation in the entertainment industry. According to Reilly, Mitte used his platform to challenge stereotypes and promote greater visibility for people living with disabilities. He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, a non-profit hospital network. He also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, supporting philanthropic activities and community initiatives. His work extended beyond acting, making disability rights and inclusion important parts of his public life. ‘Breaking Bad’ Co-Stars Pay Tribute Following news of his death, Mitte’s former co-stars paid emotional tributes to the actor. Bryan Cranston recalled that Mitte was just 14 when the series began filming. He praised the young actor for facing the show’s demanding production schedule with determination. Cranston also reflected on Mitte’s development as an actor, recalling how he gradually grew into a talented performer during the production of the series. Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, Walter White’s former student and partner in the drug business, expressed his grief in a tribute. “RJ, I love you, my friend. You will be missed,” Paul said, according to The Hollywood Reporter. He also used the moment to remind people that they are loved and not alone. Dean Norris, who portrayed Hank Schrader, Mitte’s on-screen uncle and a Drug Enforcement Administration agent, said he was heartbroken by the news. Norris recalled looking out for Mitte when he was a young actor on set, describing him as a sweetheart who would be greatly missed. Actress and disability rights campaigner Marlee Matlin also paid tribute to Mitte. The pair appeared together in Cinemability: The Art of Inclusion, a documentary exploring the portrayal of disability in American film and television. Matlin described herself as heartbroken, adding that Mitte would always have a place in her heart. A Lasting Legacy in ‘Breaking Bad’ Breaking Bad ran for five seasons from 2008 to 2013 and became one of television’s most celebrated dramas. The series followed Walter White, a chemistry teacher who turns to manufacturing and selling illegal drugs after receiving a cancer diagnosis. Its exploration of crime, family and moral decline earned widespread critical acclaim. Cranston’s portrayal of Walter White brought him international recognition, while Mitte’s performance as Walter White Jr. helped establish the character’s place in the series’ family storyline. Beyond his work on screen, Mitte’s advocacy for disability awareness and inclusion formed a significant part of his legacy. His death at 34 has prompted tributes from colleagues who remembered him not only for his acting but also for his personal warmth and commitment to disability rights.