RJ Mitte, 'Breaking Bad' Star and Disability Advocate, Dies by Suicide at 34

Key points

• RJ Mitte died by suicide at age 34, confirmed by his representative to Fox News Digital.
• He passed away on Monday at his home in Brownsville, Texas, according to authorities.
• Mitte was an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children's, and president of The Mitte Foundation.
• Bryan Cranston, who played his on-screen father, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, mentioning a recent plan to meet for lunch.
• Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, expressed heartbreak and offered support to those struggling with suicide.
• Mitte had appeared in 56 episodes of 'Breaking Bad' and other shows like 'Switched at Birth' and 'Hannah Montana'.

Background

RJ Mitte was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as a child and became a prominent advocate for disability rights. He used his role in 'Breaking Bad' to raise awareness and promote inclusion for people with disabilities. His death was confirmed by representatives and local officials, with an autopsy scheduled to determine the manner of death. Co-stars and industry figures paid tribute, highlighting his advocacy and recent positive demeanor.

How outlets are covering it

Fox News and ABC News both confirmed the cause of death as suicide, with Fox News citing Mitte's representative and ABC News noting Cranston's confirmation. Both outlets emphasized Mitte's advocacy work and the grief of his co-stars. Yahoo's article, which appears to be a technical error page, does not provide substantive information on the story. The sources agree on the key facts of his death and his role as a disability rights advocate, but differ in the level of detail provided about his advocacy work and personal tributes from co-stars.

Why it matters

RJ Mitte's death highlights the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the importance of advocacy and representation in media. His work as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children's helped raise awareness and promote inclusion for people with cerebral palsy. His passing has sparked a broader conversation about mental health and suicide prevention, with co-stars and organizations offering support and resources.

What to watch

The Cameron County Justice of the Peace has indicated that an autopsy will be conducted to determine the manner of death. Co-stars and organizations are expected to continue paying tribute to Mitte and advocating for mental health and disability rights. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is being promoted to support those struggling with suicide.