RJ Mitte [Getty Images]
RJ Mitte [Getty Images]

RJ Mitte, the actor best known for playing Walter White Jr. in the acclaimed American drama series "Breaking Bad," has died at 34.

Mitte was also a prominent advocate for disability rights.

Mitte was found dead Monday (local time) in Texas, according to US entertainment outlet TMZ and other media.

Police are investigating the cause of death while keeping multiple possibilities open.

His agency said in a statement that it was sharing "with great sadness the tragic news of the passing of Mitte, a beloved actor and passionate advocate for disability rights."

Born in 1992, Mitte starred in "Breaking Bad," alongside Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul.

He played Walter White Jr., the son of Walter White — an ordinary chemistry teacher who transforms into a drug kingpin. Mitte appeared in 56 episodes across all five seasons, which aired from 2008 to 2013.

Mitte, who had cerebral palsy, drew praise for bringing authenticity to the role through his own lived experience. He also served as an ambassador for the United Cerebral Palsy Association and Shriners Hospitals for Children, working to raise awareness about disability.

Beyond "Breaking Bad," Mitte appeared in "Switched at Birth," "The Oak Room," "The Recall" and "The Guardians of Justice."

'Breaking Bad' ranks among the greatest TV series ever made

"Breaking Bad" is widely regarded as one of the greatest television series of all time.

In 2014, it entered the Guinness World Records as the highest-rated TV series ever.

The series follows Walter White, a mild-mannered high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with stage 3 lung cancer who decides to leave behind a "special" legacy for his wife and son. Season 1 premiered in January 2008, and the show concluded with Season 5 in September 2013.

"Breaking Bad" is a piece of American Southwest slang meaning to rebel or go off the rails.


yul@heraldcorp.com