Actor Bryan Cranston has shared an emotional tribute to his late Breaking Bad co-star RJ Mitte. He revealed that they had been exchanging text messages and trying to arrange a lunch meeting just weeks before Mitte’s sudden death at age 34.
Cranston, 70, played Walter White, the on-screen father of Mitte’s character, Walter White Jr., throughout the AMC drama series from 2008 to 2013. Following the news of Mitte’s passing, Cranston posted on Instagram on Monday, October 12, to express his grief and reflect on their long-standing bond.
“[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… But I do know that I loved him, and thoroughly enjoyed being with him throughout the years on the series, and after the spotlight on Breaking Bad dimmed… I’ll miss you, son.”
Reflecting on RJ Mitte’s Journey and Resilience
In his post, Cranston recalled meeting Mitte when the young actor was only 14 years old, casting him as Walter White Jr. Mitte, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age three, brought authenticity to the role while navigating a demanding production schedule.
“Born with cerebral palsy, he never-ever-allowed that challenge to be an excuse for anything,” Cranston wrote. “He met the demanding shooting schedule head-on with great determination.”
Cranston also shared lighter memories from the set, noting that Mitte, like many teenagers, would occasionally ignore the advice of his television parents-Cranston and co-star Anna Gunn-in order to learn lessons firsthand. Over five seasons, Cranston watched Mitte grow from an inexperienced newcomer during the 2007 pilot shoot into a dedicated performer.
Advocacy and Post-Show Impact
Beyond his time on Breaking Bad, Mitte used his platform to advocate for performers with disabilities. He served as the head of a philanthropic organization aimed at supporting the disabled community, channeling his personal experiences into public service.
“That kid was pretty raw when we started shooting the pilot in February of 2007, but little by little we watched him grow into a really fine actor,” Cranston noted. “He parlayed his experience on the show to be a vocal advocate for performers with disabilities, and was the head of a philanthropic organization with a focus on helping the disabled community.”
Mitte’s representatives confirmed his passing in Brownsville, Texas, though no official cause of death has been released by authorities. Representatives asked for privacy for Mitte’s family during this difficult time.
Raising Awareness for Mental Health Support
Concluding his tribute, Cranston addressed the broader issue of mental health, urging anyone experiencing distress or suicidal ideation to seek immediate support.
“I can’t stop there without imploring anyone who is contemplating this to please call for the support you need at the 988 Crisis Lifeline,” Cranston wrote. “There is hope.”
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org to reach the Crisis Lifeline.
