Bryan Cranston has paid an emotional tribute to his former 'Breaking Bad' co-star RJ Mitte following his death at 34, reflecting on their years together and urging people experiencing suicidal thoughts to seek help.

In a social media post on Monday, 12 October, Cranston said he was in 'deep despair' following the news. The actor, who played Walter White in the hit television drama, remembered Mitte as the young performer who portrayed his son, Walter White Jr., throughout the series' five seasons.

'I met him when he was only 14 years old when he was cast as Walter White Jr., a part he played with such joy and enthusiasm,' Cranston wrote.

Mitte's representative confirmed his death reporting that he died by suicide. The circumstances have prompted an outpouring of grief from his former castmates and renewed attention to Cranston's message about seeking support during a mental health crisis.

Bryan Cranston Recalls Their Final Messages

One of the most painful parts of Cranston's tribute was his recollection that he and Mitte had exchanged text messages just weeks earlier while trying to arrange lunch.

The actor acknowledged that he could not know whether meeting might have changed what happened, but said their relationship had remained meaningful long after the series ended.

'I do know that I loved him, and thoroughly enjoyed being with him throughout the years on the series, and after the spotlight on Breaking Bad dimmed,' he wrote.

Cranston also praised Mitte's determination and professional growth. Born with cerebral palsy, Mitte drew on his lived experience while building an acting career and becoming an advocate for performers with disabilities.

Cranston recalled watching him develop from a teenager on set into a talented actor and vocal supporter of greater representation for disabled people. He described the loss of Mitte's promise and potential as devastating.

The tribute ended with a personal farewell: 'I'll miss you, son.'

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Cranston Urges People Experiencing Suicidal Thoughts to Seek Help

Alongside his grief, Cranston addressed people who might be experiencing suicidal thoughts themselves, urging them not to face the situation alone.

He encouraged anyone contemplating suicide to contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the United States, adding: 'There is hope.'

His appeal comes amid the continuing public health impact of suicide in the US. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 48,824 people died by suicide in 2024. An estimated 14.3 million American adults seriously considered suicide that year.

These figures underline the importance of accessible mental health support and taking suicidal thoughts seriously. Reaching out to a trusted person, mental health professional or crisis service can help someone access support during a difficult period.

'You Are Loved, and You Are Not Alone'

Cranston was not the only 'Breaking Bad' cast member to remember Mitte. Aaron Paul, who played Jesse Pinkman, also expressed heartbreak, telling people reading his message that they were loved and not alone.

Dean Norris, who portrayed Hank Schrader, recalled looking out for Mitte when he was a young actor on set, describing him as a kind person who would be greatly missed.

Beyond his acting career, Mitte worked to improve disability representation and support charitable initiatives. His death has left colleagues mourning both a talented performer and an advocate whose work extended beyond television.

For anyone in the US experiencing suicidal thoughts, the 988 Lifeline offers free, confidential support by call or text, 24 hours a day. People in immediate danger should contact local emergency services.

Cranston's message is a reminder that people experiencing a crisis deserve compassion and support, even when others may not fully understand what they are going through.

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