‘Malcolm in the Middle’ Star Bryan Cranston Pens Heartbreaking Tribute to His ‘Breaking Bad’ Son RJ Mitte
For 5 seasons of ‘Breaking Bad’, Bryan Cranston and RJ Mitte shared the screen as father and son. Cranston’s Walter White and Mitte’s Walter “Flynn” White Jr. formed one of the most emotionally charged relationships in Vince Gilligan’s acclaimed drama, with Mitte appearing in 56 episodes between 2008 and 2013.
The bond between the 2 actors extended well beyond the set. That made the news of Mitte’s death on Monday, October 12, at the age of 34, especially devastating for his former on-screen family.
Now, Cranston has paid tribute to Mitte in a deeply emotional message. Writing that he was in deep despair, the actor shared a photo of the pair together and reflected on their years working side by side.
“We were texting each other just a few weeks ago – figuring out when we could meet for lunch. I don’t know if that lunch would have changed his future… But I do know that I loved him,” Cranston wrote on Instagram.
Cranston also addressed the reported cause of Mitte’s death, describing it as especially devastating. He closed his tribute by telling Mitte he would miss him and calling him son. In his post, Cranston recalled first meeting Mitte when he was just 14 and newly cast as Walter White Jr. He said the young actor approached the role with great joy and enthusiasm.
Cranston also reflected on Mitte’s growth over the course of the series. He noted that Mitte was still quite raw when they began shooting the pilot in February 2007, but that the cast watched him develop into a really fine actor.
He fondly remembered how Mitte listened to advice from his TV parents, Cranston and Anna Gunn. At the same time, Cranston admitted that, like any teenager, Mitte sometimes mischievously ignored their counsel to learn things the hard way.
Cranston praised Mitte for the determination he showed throughout production. Born with cerebral palsy, Mitte never allowed that challenge to become an excuse, according to Cranston, and met the show’s demanding schedule head-on.
Cranston also highlighted Mitte’s advocacy work. He noted that Mitte used his experience on the show to become a vocal advocate for performers with disabilities and led a philanthropic organization focused on helping the disabled community.
Mitte served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He was also president of the Mitte Foundation, which worked to challenge stereotypes about people with disabilities.
Cranston ended his message with an important appeal. He urged anyone who is contemplating suicide to reach out for support through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, adding that there is hope.
His message has resonated widely, with the post shared by millions of people online. Many fans have thanked Cranston for using his platform to encourage others to seek help. Cranston isn’t the only member of the ‘Breaking Bad’ family mourning Mitte. Aaron Paul and Dean Norris were among the castmates who also shared tributes to the late actor.
Mitte was engaged to his longtime partner, Kennedy Suarez, and had recently been promoting his new film, ‘Talking to Strangers’. His death has prompted an outpouring of love from fans and colleagues alike.
For many viewers, Mitte will always be remembered as the heart of ‘Breaking Bad’. Off screen, his advocacy work helped change perceptions of disability in Hollywood. Cranston’s words offer a powerful reminder of the connections formed on set.
They also show just how much Mitte meant to the people who knew him best. If you or someone you know is struggling, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S., or contact local support services wherever you are.
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