Bryan Cranston has shared a heartfelt tribute to his Breaking Bad co-star RJ Mitte. Cranston revealed that the two had been planning to meet for lunch just weeks before the 34-year-old actor’s death. Mitte, who played Cranston’s on-screen son Walter White Jr. in the AMC series, passed away on October 12.
In a moving Instagram post, Cranston expressed his sorrow. He remembered watching Mitte grow from a teenager into a talented actor. Despite the end of the series, their close relationship continued. Cranston recounted how they were hoping to meet up soon, a meeting that sadly never happened. He reflected on their final communication and emphasized how much Mitte meant to him.
Mitte’s representative informed People and Variety that the actor died by suicide. Newsweek reached out for further comments about Mitte, who was known for portraying Walter White Jr. throughout Breaking Bad’s five seasons.
“I’m in deep despair as I write this tonight,” Cranston began his tribute, recalling their first meeting when Mitte was only 14. Cranston, Anna Gunn, who portrayed Mitte’s on-screen mother, often provided advice to the young actor. Cranston fondly noted that while Mitte appreciated guidance, he still had a youthful spirit. “He was one of the stars of a hit TV show but still a kid,” Cranston remarked.
Cranston further remembered Mitte’s development in acting, despite having limited experience when they began shooting the show’s pilot in 2007. Their on-screen father-son bond blossomed into a lasting friendship beyond the series. Cranston’s most poignant memories include their last conversations, recognizing the lunch that never took place.
“But I do know that I loved him,” Cranston concluded his tribute with the words, “I’ll miss you, son.”
Cast members from Breaking Bad joined Cranston in honoring Mitte. Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, admitted he was deeply saddened by the news. Dean Norris, who played Hank Schrader, shared his heartache, expressing his protective instincts toward Mitte. Norris described Mitte as a kind soul who would be greatly missed.
Matt Jones, who played Brandon “Badger” Matthew, reminisced about meeting Mitte 19 years ago. Jones described Mitte as a little brother within the cast family.
RJ Mitte’s Career Beyond Breaking Bad
Although Breaking Bad brought Mitte into the spotlight, his career extended beyond the critically acclaimed show. Mitte appeared in television series such as Switched at Birth and films including Time Share and Dixieland. He also modeled for designer Vivienne Westwood and contributed to Channel 4’s Paralympic Games coverage in Rio.
Mitte was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age three. He advocated for disability representation in entertainment. His condition involves movement difficulties and is due to brain development issues, typically occurring before or shortly after birth.
Throughout his career, Mitte was vocal about living with cerebral palsy and breaking stereotypes, using his platform to support broader inclusion and understanding.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available. Dial 988, text “988” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visit 988lifeline.org for assistance.