Aaron Paul has paid tribute to his former Breaking Bad co-star RJ Mitte after his death by suicide at his home in Texas, saying he wished he had known his friend was struggling.
Paul shared a video of Mitte discussing the importance of mental health alongside a message mourning the actor’s death. “RJ, You have always been an inspiration for so many. I am so sorry you were hurting my friend. I wish we knew,” he wrote.
The actor said Mitte had “constantly had a smile” and faced every challenge “with such confidence and grace”. Paul also recalled watching him grow from a child into “a beautiful young man”.
Remembering their last meeting, Paul wrote: “The last time we saw each other I kept calling you Superman. You reminded me of him. You reminded me of him because you always led with kindness and strength. It was blinding.”
Paul praised Mitte for not allowing the challenges he faced from cerebral palsy to stand in his way.
“I’m so sorry RJ. What an absolute tragic loss,” Paul added. “I love you my friend. I loved your mother. Your sister. I loved your laugh and how much fun you had riding the wave we were all blessed to be on with Breaking Bad.”
He urged anyone feeling lost, sad or uncertain to speak to someone, writing that “life is so damn special” and calling for people to support one another.
“Connect with someone you care about and say I love you. RJ, love you my friend. I’m so sorry,” Paul concluded.
Law enforcement said the investigation into Mitte’s death is ongoing.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available by calling or texting 988.
