Breaking Bad star RJ Mitte dies age 34

RJ Mitte, a US actor best known for his role as Walter White Jr in the Emmy-winning drama series Breaking Bad, has died aged 34. His representative confirmed the news, stating that Mitte died in Brownsville, Texas, but did not disclose the cause of death.

Mitte was born in 1992 and grew up in Mississippi with his adoptive parents. He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of three, a permanent physical disability that affects movement and posture. Despite this, Mitte went on to have a successful acting career, including roles in several TV series and a new movie, Talking to Strangers.

Mitte's character on Breaking Bad, Walter White Jr, was based on a real-life friend of the show's creator, Vince Gilligan. Mitte credited his role on the show as his career breakthrough, saying it gave him the opportunity to speak on important topics and have a platform to promote disability awareness and inclusion.

Offscreen, Mitte was an outspoken advocate for disability representation in entertainment. He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and as president of the Mitte Foundation, which he created to support philanthropic efforts and community initiatives.

Breaking Bad, which aired on US cable broadcaster AMC from 2008 to 2013, is widely credited as one of the best US TV series of the 21st century. The show earned a whopping 58 Primetime Emmy nominations and won 16, including two for Outstanding Drama Series in 2013 and 2014.

Mitte's death has been met with tributes from his colleagues and fans, who remember him for his authenticity and passion for disability rights. His legacy will continue to inspire and educate audiences about the importance of representation and inclusion in entertainment.