How Breaking Bad's RJ Mitte changed the way we see cerebral palsy

"I have cerebral palsy but I've never let it hold me back."

These impactful words were expressed by RJ Mitte, the esteemed 22-year-old actor from Breaking Bad, in an essay for HuffPost in 2014.

In discussing his journey of confronting bullies during his youth, he articulated, "It shouldn't define you. I just happen to have CP." This sentiment mirrored that of his character, Walter 'Flynn' White Jr., the son of Bryan Cranston's character in the critically acclaimed drama, which was recently recognized by the New York Times as the best TV show of the 21st Century.

"What I find particularly compelling is that he portrayed a character who had cerebral palsy, yet the storyline was not solely focused on that aspect of his identity," remarks Emma Livingstone, founder and CEO of Up - the Adult Cerebral Palsy Movement.

"When we see RJ Mitte on television simply embracing a role while also living with CP, I believe that sends a profoundly powerful message."

Mitte, who tragically passed away by suicide at age 34, was not merely an actor; he was also a passionate advocate, serving as an ambassador for organizations such as United Cerebral Palsy and Can Do Canines. He established The Mitte Foundation, which provided community grants in his native Texas.

Susan Sellers, the president and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy, notes, "His advocacy stemmed from a deep commitment to ensuring that individuals with cerebral palsy and other disabilities are recognized, heard, and given opportunities to reach their fullest potential."

Mitte's influence, particularly regarding performers with disabilities, is noteworthy.

Ruth Madeley, who portrays disability rights advocate Judy Heumann in the new film Being Heumann, shared with the BBC: "If you don't see it, you don't think it's possible. During my earlier years, acting didn't even cross my mind; it felt unattainable."

The actress, who has spina bifida, continues, "Having individuals like RJ on-screen opens the door for young people who aspire to enter the arts... He was an exemplary figure in that regard.

"Moreover, he transcended the role of merely being a disabled individual dismantling industry barriers; he was an extraordinary talent, and that is what will be profoundly missed."

Keron Day, another actor who featured in the Netflix series Sex Education, conveyed to the BBC: "The greatest tribute I can pay to RJ and his contributions is that I'm reaching out to you today from the set of a television show."

"That is his legacy: empowering disabled individuals to forge careers in the creative industries. If I could achieve half the impact that RJ has had, I would be immensely proud. Today is a somber moment for both our industry and our community."

Comedian and screenwriter Laurence Clarke echoes this sentiment. "As we witness more representations on television, it will inspire additional disabled individuals to believe they can pursue this career path," he states.

"While there has been considerable progress since Breaking Bad aired in 2008, there remains much work to be done."

Reflecting on Mitte's portrayal in Breaking Bad, Clarke shares with the BBC: "What's remarkable is that his disability is overt and part of his character, yet it does not overshadow his story."

He emphasizes the influence of inclusive dramas and their effect on viewers.

"The more audiences experience such portrayals, the more normalized they become, shaping how society perceives the world around them."

Mitte was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of three; the NHS characterizes this condition as a collection of lifelong disorders affecting movement and coordination, resulting from a complication in brain development around the time of birth.

He was cast in Breaking Bad at 14 and noted in an interview with Channel 4 News in 2016 that the series "pioneered a lot of TV and writers to be bolder in their storytelling."

However, he approached the issue with caution, adding, "There is still a considerable way to go... it's still a business, and progress must be gradual."

Earlier this month, he indicated his interest in possibly continuing the Breaking Bad narrative but cautioned that any revival would face high expectations.

"I aspire to surpass Breaking Bad; that goal feels quite daunting," he remarked. "I've set a standard for myself that seems nearly unattainable. I tell people, 'It's a long way down from the top of the mountain.'"

Beyond Breaking Bad, Mitte's additional television credits include Hannah Montana, Switched at Birth, Westhampton, and his most recent project, Talking to Strangers, which was released earlier this year.

However, his most significant achievement—and source of pride—was his philanthropic efforts.

"Where I felt most accomplished was in my ability to assist others through Breaking Bad, particularly with my endeavors for individuals with disabilities... my mission has always been to remind people they have a voice and to amplify mine in their support.

"The greatest gift that Breaking Bad has afforded me is the opportunity to utilize my voice to champion causes that create meaningful change and improve lives."