RJ Mitte, ‘Breaking Bad’ Star, Dies by Suicide After Financial and Career Struggles
Breaking Bad actor RJ Mitte died by suicide at 34, facing IRS debt and Hollywood typecasting challenges.
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RJ Mitte, the star of the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad, died by suicide at the age of 34, according to representatives who confirmed the news on Tuesday. The cause of death was revealed after initial speculation following the tragic news on Monday.
Financial Troubles and IRS Debt
Mitte’s death comes amid a long-standing financial struggle, with reports indicating he was allegedly defrauded by his business manager, leading to a crippling IRS debt. The actor had been earning millions from his role as Walter White Jr. on Breaking Bad, but his manager allegedly pocketed the money and submitted forged tax filings, leaving Mitte with a massive tax bill.
According to the Daily Mail, Mitte’s financial woes began during his teenage years, when he hired a business manager to handle his earnings and taxes after three years on the show. Despite his growing fame, he was left with a debt that took nearly a decade to resolve.
Struggles with Hollywood and Typecasting
Friends and insiders reported that Mitte grew increasingly frustrated with Hollywood, particularly for typecasting him as disabled due to his cerebral palsy. He was never allowed to move beyond his role as Walter White Jr., which limited his opportunities in the industry.
“As soon as he finished his final episode, his downward spiral started,” a source told an outlet. “He kept saying he’d never get another role anywhere near as good.”
A text from Mitte in 2017 appeared to confirm his frustration, where he expressed his desire for roles that allowed characters to be disabled. “They get real uncomfortable when I say that,” he wrote.
Co-Stars Mourn and Reflect on His Legacy
Mitte’s co-stars expressed deep sorrow and shock at his passing. Bryan Cranston, who played Walter White, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, calling Mitte his “sweet son” on the show and praising his determination and spirit.
“Born with Cerebral Palsy, he never – ever – allowed that challenge to be an excuse for anything. He met the demanding shooting schedule head on with great determination,” Cranston wrote. “He was one of the stars of a hit TV show – but still a kid.”
Mitte’s legacy as a talented actor and his resilience in the face of adversity will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
Source: Breitbart
