The Breaking Bad family is mourning one of its own. RJ Mitte, who played Walter“Flynn”White Jr. across all five seasons, died by suicide on Monday at 34 years old. Anna Gunn, his on-screen mother Skyler White, shared a statement with TVLine on Wednesday remembering him as gentle, bold, kind, and wickedly funny, and said she was struck by the depth and complexity of someone so young when they first met.“There truly are no words,”she said.
Mitte’s impact went far beyond television. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age 3, he became one of the most visible advocates for disability representation, serving as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s and as president of The Mitte Foundation. His performance as Flynn gave millions of viewers a character whose disability was part of his story but never the whole story. Bryan Cranston recalled recent texts about meeting for lunch, and Aaron Paul called the loss absolutely tragic.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, help is available right now. Call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. Which RJ Mitte moment on Breaking Bad will you always remember?
About the Author
Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.