Breaking Bad actor RJ Mitte dies aged 34

US actor RJ Mitte, best known for playing Walter White Jr, the defiant son of drug kingpin Walter White in the hit drama series Breaking Bad, has died aged 34.

“It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte,” his representative told the BBC.

Mitte died in Brownsville, Texas, on 12 October. No immediate cause of death was given.

The Brownsville Police Department confirmed his death in a statement to the BBC, saying the cause and manner of death had not been determined and the investigation remained ongoing. Police said foul play was not suspected.

Cyndi Hinojosa, a Cameron County justice of the peace, told the Associated Press that Mitte was declared dead at what was believed to be his home. A post-mortem examination was to be carried out.

Mitte, who had cerebral palsy, drew on his own experiences for his portrayal of Walter “Flynn” White Jr in the Emmy-winning series, which starred Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul. He won a Screen Actors Guild Award in 2014 for his work on the show.

“Mitte brought authenticity to the role and built a platform on disability awareness and inclusion,” his representative, Sean Reilly, said in a statement to the BBC.

Beyond acting, Mitte was a prominent advocate for disability rights and inclusion. He served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s, supporting organisations dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities.

He also founded The Mitte Foundation to support philanthropic efforts and community initiatives.

Through his work and public profile, Mitte sought to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation for people with disabilities, Reilly said.

Breaking Bad aired on US cable broadcaster AMC for five seasons from 2008-13.

Cranston posted a tribute to his on-screen son on Instagram, writing that he was in "deep despair" following news of Mitte's death.