American actor RJ Mitte, who gained international recognition for playing Walter White Jr in the acclaimed television drama Breaking Bad, has died aged 34.

His representative, Sean Reilly, confirmed the news to the BBC, describing Mitte as a beloved actor, philanthropist and disability rights advocate. He died in Brownsville, Texas, although no cause of death was immediately disclosed.

Mitte, who lived with cerebral palsy, brought aspects of his personal experience to his portrayal of Walter White’s son in the Emmy-winning series, which ran from 2008 to 2013. His performance earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award in 2014.

Beyond acting, Mitte championed disability inclusion through his work with organisations including United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children’s. He also established The Mitte Foundation to support charitable projects and community initiatives.

His representative said Mitte used his public profile to challenge stereotypes and promote better representation of people with disabilities.

Born and raised in Louisiana, Mitte moved to Los Angeles in 2005 to support his younger sister’s acting ambitions. He subsequently auditioned for Breaking Bad, the crime drama starring Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul.

Created by Vince Gilligan, the series became one of American television’s most celebrated dramas, earning 16 Primetime Emmy Awards during its run.

Mitte later reflected on the show’s anti-drug message, saying he viewed it as a warning about the consequences of methamphetamine use.