RJ Mitte, the actor best known for his role as Walter White Jr. on the acclaimed television series "Breaking Bad," died by suicide on Monday at the age of 34. He was found at his home in Brownsville, Texas, with emergency services responding shortly before he was pronounced dead, according to local authorities. No foul play was suspected, and an autopsy has been ordered.

Mitte’s portrayal of Walter "Flynn" White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston’s chemistry teacher-turned-drug kingpin character, was widely praised for its authenticity and nuance. Like his character, Mitte lived with cerebral palsy, a neurological condition affecting muscle control and coordination. His personal experience informed his performance, bringing a rare level of realism to a role that was notable for portraying disability as incidental rather than defining. The series aired from 2008 to 2013, with Mitte appearing in 56 episodes.

Born Roy Frank Mitte III in 1992, he was adopted as an infant and diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age three. Raised in Mississippi, he later moved with his family to Los Angeles to support his and his sister’s acting careers. Mitte began acting as a child and gained significant recognition with “Breaking Bad.” His work extended beyond the show to include roles in series such as "Switched at Birth" and “The Guardians of Justice,” as well as appearances in independent films, including his most recent project, the romantic drama "Talking to Strangers."

Mitte was also known for his advocacy on behalf of people with disabilities. He served as an ambassador for organizations including United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s Hospital and was president of the Mitte Foundation, a family-run philanthropic organization supporting community initiatives in Brownsville. Throughout his career, he spoke openly about the challenges faced by disabled actors in Hollywood, criticizing the industry’s preference for able-bodied performers in disability roles and calling for greater inclusivity and opportunity.

In a statement, Mitte’s representatives described him as a “beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate,” noting that he built a platform “to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation for people with disabilities.” He was also involved in public speaking and had appeared at educational institutions to discuss his experiences and the importance of disability awareness.

Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans. Bryan Cranston, who played his on-screen father, described Mitte as “my sweet son on Breaking Bad” and “a really fine actor” who met his disability “head-on with great determination.” Cranston recalled their recent text conversations and expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Aaron Paul, another co-star, said he was “heartbroken” and urged those reading to remember they are not alone. Dean Norris, who portrayed Mitte’s television uncle, called him “a sweetheart of a young man” who would be greatly missed. Actress and disability advocate Marlee Matlin also paid tribute, saying her “heart was shattered” by the news.

In interviews, Mitte emphasized the importance of viewing disabilities as challenges to overcome but not limitations, and he rejected the idea that disabled characters should only be played by disabled actors, instead advocating for broader industry education and openness.

Mitte is survived by his parents, Roy Franke Mitte Jr. and Dyna Mitte, and his sister, Lacianne Carriere. His passing has prompted reflections on mental health and the pressures faced by actors with disabilities, as well as renewed conversations about representation and support for disabled performers in entertainment.

For those seeking support, hotlines such as the U.S. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are available.