Bryan Cranston Pays Tribute to RJ Mitte

Bryan Cranston expressed his heartfelt condolences for his former Breaking Bad co-star RJ Mitte. The acclaimed actor revealed plans he had with Mitte to meet for lunch, which were thwarted by Mitte’s sudden passing at age 34. Cranston, who portrayed Walter White, Mitte’s on-screen father, penned a touching message on Instagram after learning of Mitte’s tragic death on October 12.

Cranston remembered Mitte’s journey as a young actor in Hollywood, praising his transformation into a skilled performer, and highlighting their strong bond away from the cameras. The seasoned actor shared memories of their ongoing friendship and recent text exchanges as they planned a lunch meeting. Reflecting on this unrealized meeting, Cranston pondered if it might have influenced Mitte’s future.

We were texting each other just a few weeks ago – figuring out when we could meet for lunch.

The poignant tribute followed the announcement by Mitte’s representative that he had died by suicide. Cranston expressed profound sadness over the disruption of their long-standing relationship, recalling how they had first met when Mitte was just 14.

The series, which aired from 2008 to 2013, fostered a strong connection between Cranston, Mitte, Anna Gunn, and other cast members. Gunn, who played Mitte’s on-screen mother, Skyler White, joined Cranston in offering guidance to the young actor during filming. Despite Mitte’s lack of acting experience prior to filming the pilot in 2007, he grew in his craft significantly.

Cranston described Mitte as a star, yet still a kid, noting occasional resistance to advice. Their on-screen roles developed into a lasting friendship, and Cranston cherished these final interactions.

But I do know that I loved him.

Other Breaking Bad cast members, like Aaron Paul and Dean Norris, also mourned Mitte’s loss. Paul expressed his love and heartbreak, while Norris recalled protecting Mitte on set as if he were family. The series fostered friendships that endured beyond its conclusion more than ten years ago.

Matt Jones, who played Badger, voiced his devastation at the news, recalling Mitte as a “little brother” from their early days working together.

Mitte’s character, Walter White Jr., was integral to the series’ plot across five seasons, and the actor maintained ties with his co-stars long after its end.

RJ Mitte’s Career Beyond Breaking Bad

Mitte, made famous by Breaking Bad, continued his diverse career in television and film, starring in series like Switched at Birth and Vegas, and films such as Dixieland and Time Share. Outside acting, he gained recognition on the runway for Vivienne Westwood and presenting the 2016 Rio Paralympic Games for Channel 4.

The actor, diagnosed with cerebral palsy at three, championed disability representation in entertainment. Cerebral palsy is caused by brain development issues and affects motor functions. Mitte was a vocal advocate for inclusion, challenging stereotypes through his work.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, or text “988” to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visit 988lifeline.org.