Mitte subsequently built a successful Hollywood career while becoming an outspoken advocate for disability rights and greater representation in entertainment.
While living with cerebral palsy, Mitte brought personal experience to his portrayal of Walter White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston’s chemistry teacher-turned-drug manufacturer Walter White, aka Heisenberg.
The acclaimed series, which also starred Aaron Paul, became one of television’s most celebrated dramas and gave Mitte global fame.
His representative announced his death in a statement praising his professional achievements and campaigning work.
They said: “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte.”
James Watson-O’Neill, chief executive of disability charity Sense, also paid tribute to the actor’s contribution to representation.
“We’re deeply saddened to hear of the death of RJ Mitte,” he said. Watson-O’Neill praised the portrayal of Walter White Jr. for demonstrating that disability need not dominate a character’s identity.
He said: “His character’s cerebral palsy was part of who he was, but it didn’t define him or dominate his storyline.”
The charity executive highlighted continuing inequalities in television representation, citing research indicating 39 percent of disabled people rarely or never encounter experiences resembling their own in the media.
“Representation matters. Seeing disabled people on our screens, telling their own stories and playing a wide range of roles helps challenge stereotypes, break down barriers and create a more inclusive society,” Watson-O’Neill noted.