Skateboarder and the actor best known for playing Walter “Flynn” White Jr. in Breaking Bad, RJ Mitte has died at 34.
According to reports, the cause of his death is by suicide. Mitte's connection to skateboarding brings the news to the attention of a community built around spending time together, supporting one another, and sharing a love for being on a board.
His representative also remembered him for his work as an actor, philanthropist, and disability rights advocate.
Mitte used his platform to promote inclusion and better representation for people with disabilities, serving as an ambassador for United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s.
He also served as president of The Mitte Foundation, which supported charitable causes and community initiatives.
Following the news, his Breaking Bad castmates shared tributes. Dean Norris, who played Hank Schrader, remembered Mitte as a kind young man he looked out for on set. Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, also expressed his heartbreak and love for his friend.
For the skateboarding community, this is a moment to check in on the people around you.
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Think about all the good homies you see at the local park, the ones you film clips with, or the people who have not shown up for a session in a while.
Send them a message, ask how they are doing, and make time to listen if they need someone to talk to.
You do not need to know exactly what to say or have a solution to every problem. Showing genuine care and helping someone find support can matter more than you realize.
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Skateboarding brings people together, and looking out for your crew should be part of that connection.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to someone you trust or a mental health professional. You can call or text 988 for support through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Look after your crew. Make sure they do not have to deal with everything alone.