Bryan Cranston has paid an emotional tribute to his Breaking Bad co-star RJ Mitte following the actor’s death at the age of 34.
Cranston, who played Walter White, described himself as being in “deep despair” over the loss of Mitte, who portrayed his television son Walter White Jr throughout the acclaimed AMC series.
“I’m in deep despair as I write this tonight,” Cranston wrote on Instagram. “I’ll miss you, son.”
Cranston remembers meeting Mitte at 14
Cranston recalled first meeting Mitte when he was only 14 and had been cast as Walter White Jr.
He praised the young actor for approaching the programme’s demanding production schedule with determination while living with cerebral palsy.
Mitte’s character also had cerebral palsy, allowing him to bring his own experiences to one of television’s most recognisable disabled characters.
Cranston said Mitte remained a teenager despite becoming one of the stars of a hugely successful television programme.
He remembered watching him develop from a relatively inexperienced performer into a talented actor during Breaking Bad’s five-season run.
Lunch meeting never happened
Cranston revealed that he and Mitte had exchanged text messages only weeks before his death as they attempted to arrange a lunch meeting.
Reflecting on the plans they never completed, Cranston questioned whether seeing Mitte might have affected what happened.
He said he did not know whether the lunch would have changed anything but remained certain of the love he felt for his former co-star.
Mitte’s death was confirmed by his representative, who said the actor died by suicide in Texas on Monday.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.
Co-stars share their heartbreak
Cranston was joined by other Breaking Bad cast members in mourning Mitte.
Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, said he was heartbroken and at a loss following the news. He reminded people experiencing difficulties that they were loved and not alone.
Dean Norris, who portrayed Hank Schrader, remembered looking out for Mitte when he was a young actor on the programme’s set. He described him as a sweet young man who would be greatly missed.
Disability rights legacy
Away from acting, Mitte became a prominent campaigner for performers with disabilities.
He used his platform to challenge stereotypes, promote inclusion and call for disabled actors to be considered for roles that were not defined solely by disability.
Mitte served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s and was involved in philanthropic work supporting disabled communities.
His other acting credits included Switched at Birth, The Guardians of Justice, The Oak Room and Triumph.
Cranston concluded his tribute by encouraging anyone considering suicide to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Anyone struggling in the UK or Ireland can contact Samaritans free on 116 123. In the United States, call or text 988 for confidential crisis support.
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