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

In 2014, RJ Mitte, a 22-year-old star of the critically acclaimed TV show Breaking Bad, penned an essay for Huffpost detailing his personal experiences with cerebral palsy. Mitte, who portrayed the son of Bryan Cranston's character in the series, emphasized that his cerebral palsy should not define him, stating, "It shouldn't define you.

I just happen to have CP." This sentiment resonated with Emma Livingstone, founder and CEO of Up - the Adult Cerebral Palsy Movement, who praised Mitte for portraying a character with cerebral palsy but never letting it overshadow his role. Mitte, who died by suicide on January 8, 2023, at the age of 34, was not only an accomplished actor but also a passionate advocate for cerebral palsy awareness.

He worked with organizations like United Cerebral Palsy and Can Do Canines, and founded The Mitte Foundation, which provided community grants in his hometown in Texas. Susan Sellers, president and CEO of United Cerebral Palsy, lauded Mitte's advocacy for ensuring people with disabilities are seen, heard, and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Mitte's presence on screen played a crucial role in inspiring young people, including disability rights advocate Judy Heumann, who has spina bifida, to consider acting as a viable career path. His work in Breaking Bad was groundbreaking, as the show's protagonist, Walter White Jr., was portrayed by Mitte and lived with cerebral palsy, challenging the typical portrayal of disabled characters in media.

Despite his untimely passing, Mitte's legacy continues to inspire, both within the entertainment industry and the cerebral palsy community, as his advocacy helped to normalize the representation of individuals with disabilities in mainstream media.