What actor and activist RJ Mitte said about disability

Photo by Shriners Children's

By Louise Kinross

American actor RJ Mitte, who brought disability into the mainstream in his role as Walter White Jr on the TV series Breaking Bad, died yesterday by suicide, People reports. Mitte (second from left in photo) was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age three.

This Vice interview includes his childhood memories and thoughts on disability representation: "I think it's really important that we have real stories on television and film that are having real impact," he said. "People are hungry for realism. They're hungry to see characters like them....I think that's what's really important about Breaking Bad. It shows characters that everyone can relate to."

His advice to people with disabilities: "Don't hide your disability. Don't hide whatever it is that you're hiding. I'm not just talking about physical disability, I'm talking about mental disability. Show who you are and what you are to the world."

His agency said: "It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of beloved actor, philanthropist, and passionate disability rights advocate RJ Mitte." The actor used "his platform to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation.

“Beyond entertaining friends and family around the world, he served as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s.”

Mitte also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, “supporting philanthropic efforts and community initiatives, while using his platform to challenge stereotypes and promote greater representation for people with disabilities.” 

On its Facebook page, Shriners said: "RJ received care for cerebral palsy at Shriners Children’s Shreveport and later became a patient ambassador and spokesperson for the organization’s anti-bullying campaign. By sharing his story, RJ helped build understanding and championed a more inclusive world that celebrates children of all abilities."

The foundation's tagline is: "Better to light a candle than curse the darkness."

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