RJ Mitte, the American actor widely recognized for playing Walter White Jr. in the hit television series Breaking Bad, died at the age of 34. Police opened an investigation after finding the actor lifeless in Brownsville, Texas, while his representative confirmed the death to CBS News without immediately releasing a cause. TMZ learned from a county official that the actor died by suicide on Monday.
Police Investigation and Representative Statement in Texas
Law enforcement in Brownsville initiated an inquiry following the discovery of the actor. Representatives for Mitte issued a statement to the BBC and other outlets addressing the loss. It is with profound sadness that we announce the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate advocate for disability rights RJ Mitte,
the representative said. Staff later asked the public to respect the privacy of the actor’s family and loved ones during the investigation.
Career Breakthrough in Breaking Bad and Major Awards
Born in Jackson, Mississippi, and later adopted, Mitte appeared in 56 episodes of Breaking Bad, portraying the son of characters played by Bryan Cranston and Anna Gunn. Like his television alter ego, Mitte lived with cerebral palsy, a condition diagnosed when he was three years old. His work on the final season earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award for outstanding performance by an ensemble in a drama series in 2014. That same year, he received the SAG-AFTRA Howard Russell Award, named after the first actor with a disability to have won an Oscar.
Activism and Advocacy for Disability Representation in Hollywood
Mitte leveraged his platform to challenge industry stereotypes and advocate for authentic representation of performers with disabilities. He served as an ambassador for organizations including United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, alongside leading the Mitte Foundation. Representatives noted that he drew directly from his personal experiences to build awareness and inclusion within the entertainment industry.
Recent Projects and Personal Life
Before his death, Mitte maintained an active schedule promoting his film Talking to Strangers, through various podcast appearances. His recent credits also included the Netflix series The Guardians of Justice, a recurring role in Switched at Birth, and feature films such as The Recall (2017) and The Oak Room (2020), with several additional projects left in pre-production. He is survived by his partner, Kennedy Suarez, with whom he had been in a relationship since 2018 and to whom he was officially engaged.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Investigation and Career
What caused the death of RJ Mitte?
Authorities in Texas opened an investigation into the death, and while initial representative statements did not disclose a cause, TMZ reported on information from a county official indicating death by suicide on Monday.
Which award did RJ Mitte win for Breaking Bad?
Mitte won a Screen Actors Guild Award in 2014 for best ensemble in a drama series, recognizing his work during the final season of the show.
What charitable organizations did Mitte support?
He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, and he directed the Mitte Foundation to promote community initiatives and disability rights.