There are news stories that leave you reeling, and the death of RJ Mitte is one of them. On October 12, TMZ broke the news that the actor—who’s best known for portraying Walter White Jr. in Breaking Bad—had passed away at just 34 years old.
The tragedy occurred at his home in Brownsville, Texas, where emergency responders could only confirm his death. At first, no official details were released and an autopsy was requested, but shortly afterward, his lawyers and the press confirmed that the actor had taken his own life.
The news left everyone speechless, especially because—just a few weeks earlier—RJ had appeared on the red carpet for the L.A. premiere of his new independent film, Talking to Strangers. On October 8, he posted about the event on Facebook, writing, “It’s got a little love, some comedy, and maybe even some drama. Go check it out!”
A year earlier, he’d gotten engaged to Kennedy Suarez, with whom he had been in a relationship for years. At the time, he told People, “I’m thrilled to have found my person, my partner in life who makes me want to be better, no matter what we’re doing. Kennedy is my everything and I can’t wait to officially start our life together and see what adventures life takes us on next.”
Born in Mississippi, RJ moved to Los Angeles as a teen. What made him famous was the role of the protagonist’s son in the cult series Breaking Bad. He shared a real condition with that character: cerebral palsy, diagnosed when he was 3 years old. RJ, however, never let this difficulty hold him back.
After working in other series and films, he devoted much of his time to helping others, fighting prejudice against people with disabilities through his foundation and various charities.
The news of his passing especially devastated the people who had worked with him for a long time. The first to remember him was Bryan Cranston, his onscreen father. Bryan said he had met RJ when he was only 14 and had immediately admired his great willpower, able to face very long workdays without ever complaining.
Recalling the sincere affection he felt for him and a lunch they were planning, the actor expressed all his grief and wanted to send a clear message: anyone going through a dark time must find the courage to ask for help, because they are never alone.
Other actors from the series also paid tribute to RJ with messages posted on social media and public statements. To The Hollywood Reporter, Aaron Paul said he was speechless and heartbroken over the loss of a dear friend, reminding readers that the love of others is always there, even when we don’t see it.
Dean Norris, who played Uncle Hank in the series, recalled on his social media channels how sweet and polite a young man RJ was, and how everyone on set had looked after him from the very first episodes.