RJ Mitte, the actor best known for his portrayal of Walter “Flynn” White Jr in the critically acclaimed crime drama Breaking Bad, has died. He was 30.
The news was confirmed in a statement shared by his publicist on behalf of his family. Known for his role in the Emmy-winning series, which aired from 2008 to 2013, Mitte was widely celebrated for his advocacy work regarding disability rights and his efforts to promote greater inclusion within the entertainment industry.
Born with cerebral palsy, Mitte drew upon his personal experiences to bring an authentic depth to the character of Flynn, the son of chemistry teacher-turned-drug-kingpin Walter White.
“Drawing from his own experience living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion,” the family statement read. “Beyond entertaining friends and family around the world, he served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, supporting philanthropic efforts and community initiatives, while using his platform to challenge stereotypes.”
The news has left his former Breaking Bad co-stars in mourning. Bryan Cranston, who played his on-screen father, expressed his “deep despair” in an emotional tribute posted to Instagram.
“I’m in deep despair as I write this tonight. RJ Mitte, my sweet son on Breaking Bad has died,” Cranston wrote. “I met him when he was only 14-years-old when he was cast as Walter White Jr, a part he played with such joy and enthusiasm. Born with cerebral palsy, he never – ever – allowed that challenge to be an excuse for anything.”
Cranston noted that Mitte had approached the show’s grueling production schedule with “great determination.” He added: “He was one of the stars of a hit TV show – but still a kid. All that promise and potential now is such a loss… I’ll miss you, son.”
Aaron Paul, who starred as Jesse Pinkman, shared his heartbreak in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, saying: “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.”
Dean Norris, who played Hank Schrader, also paid tribute on social media, writing: “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.”
Beyond his breakout role, Mitte was a multifaceted talent who appeared in series such as Switched at Birth, Vegas, and Now Apocalypse. He was also an active advocate, walking the runway for Vivienne Westwood and presenting coverage for the 2016 Rio Summer Paralympics.
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