Hollywood is mourning the death of RJ Mitte, the actor best known for playing Walter White Jr. in the hit television series Breaking Bad, who died at the age of 34 in Texas.
Bryan Cranston, who portrayed Mitte’s on-screen father, Walter White, shared his grief on social media, revealing that the two had been exchanging messages just weeks earlier to arrange a lunch meeting. Mitte’s death was confirmed by his representative, with reports identifying it as suicide.
Cranston reflected on their relationship and the plans they had hoped to make.
“We were texting each other just a few weeks ago figuring out when we could meet for lunch,” Cranston wrote. “I don’t know if that lunch would have changed his future.”
He also remembered the years they spent working together on Breaking Bad, praising Mitte’s growth as an actor and his efforts to improve representation for people with disabilities.
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“I’ll miss you, son,” Cranston wrote in an emotional farewell.
Cranston also encouraged people experiencing suicidal thoughts to seek support, highlighting the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States.
RJ Mitte’s Career and Disability Advocacy
Mitte became widely known for portraying Walter White Jr., the son of Cranston’s character, throughout all five seasons of Breaking Bad. The role drew on his own experience living with cerebral palsy and helped bring greater visibility to performers with disabilities.
His representatives described him as a beloved actor, philanthropist and passionate disability rights advocate. Beyond his television career, Mitte worked with organisations including United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s and served as president of the Mitte Foundation. <Cite refs={[“turn410396search1″,”turn410396search6”]}/>
Born in Jackson, Mississippi, Mitte was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of three. He used leg braces and crutches during his childhood and later became less dependent on walking aids through exercise and physical activity.
He also faced significant family challenges early in life. Following his parents’ separation, he was raised by his adoptive mother. At 13, he took on financial responsibilities for his mother and younger sister after his mother became paralysed.
Despite these difficulties, Mitte built a career in Hollywood and used his platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for greater inclusion in the entertainment industry.
Alongside Breaking Bad, his credits included Switched at Birth, The Oak Room and The Guardians of Justice. Shortly before his death, he had been promoting his film Talking to Strangers.
RJ Mitte Was Engaged to Kennedy Suarez
Mitte was engaged to his longtime partner, Kennedy Suarez, when he died.
The actor proposed to Suarez, a human resources professional, on October 10, 2025, her 30th birthday. The couple had known each other for years before their friendship developed into a romantic relationship.
In an earlier interview, Mitte spoke warmly about their future together.
“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,” he said.
“Kennedy is my everything and I can’t wait to officially start our life together,” he added.
A Lasting Legacy
Tributes from Mitte’s colleagues and fans have highlighted both his acting talent and his commitment to disability rights.
His performance as Walter White Jr. brought his personal experience into a globally recognised television drama, while his advocacy work helped challenge stereotypes and encourage broader representation in film and television.
As colleagues and audiences remember the actor, his work on screen and his efforts to improve inclusion remain central to his legacy.
