RJ Mitte
A video of Breaking Bad actor RJ Mitte sharing a quiet moment with co-star Luis Moncada during a hot-air balloon ride has resurfaced following Mitte's death at 34 Instagram/RJ Mitte

A video showing Breaking Bad actor RJ Mitte sharing a quiet moment with his co-star Luis Moncada has resurfaced following Mitte's death at the age of 34, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans. The footage, filmed during a hot-air balloon ride in Albuquerque, has taken on new significance after Moncada revealed that his friend had been dealing with serious personal struggles shortly before his death.

Mitte, best known for playing Walter White Jr, the son of Bryan Cranston's character in the acclaimed television drama, died on 12 October 2026. His representative confirmed the actor's passing, while authorities in Texas said the circumstances were under investigation. His death has prompted tributes from former castmates and renewed discussion about the importance of checking in on loved ones.

Video Shows a Quiet Moment Between Friends

The footage was recorded during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, where Mitte reunited with Moncada earlier in October. Moncada, who played cartel enforcer Marco Salamanca in Breaking Bad, reportedly took Mitte on his first hot-air balloon ride.

In the video, Mitte appears relaxed as he rests his head against his friend's shoulder while they share the experience. The seemingly ordinary moment has since attracted widespread attention because it was filmed only days before Mitte's death.

Fans have been revisiting the clip while expressing sadness that the actor was experiencing difficulties that were not necessarily apparent to those watching him. However, the footage alone cannot reveal what Mitte was feeling at the time.

Luis Moncada Reveals His Friend Was Struggling

Speaking after Mitte's death, Moncada revealed that the actor had been dealing with several serious personal issues. He explained that the pair had discussed private matters during their reunion, but he did not want to disclose the details publicly. Moncada said Mitte appeared to be under considerable stress and was being pulled in different directions.

The two also spent nearly an hour talking outside an airport before Mitte returned to Texas. Moncada reportedly encouraged his friend to stay with him for a few days to rest and clear his mind, but Mitte declined because he had already spent an extended period travelling.

They promised to remain in contact, and Moncada said he had asked Mitte to call him if he needed someone to talk to. The revelation has added an emotional dimension to the footage, although Moncada has not publicly identified the specific difficulties his friend was facing.

Bryan Cranston Shares an Emotional Tribute

Mitte's former on-screen father, Bryan Cranston, also paid tribute to the actor, describing himself as devastated by the news. Cranston recalled meeting Mitte when he was just 14 years old and beginning his role as Walter White Jr. He praised the young actor's determination, enthusiasm and commitment to his work, noting that Mitte had cerebral palsy and helped bring greater authenticity to the character.

The pair remained in contact long after Breaking Bad ended. Cranston revealed that they had exchanged messages a few weeks before Mitte's death and had attempted to arrange lunch.

He expressed heartbreak over the loss, reflecting on the possibility that their planned meeting might have offered an opportunity to connect. The actor also acknowledged that he could not know whether it would have changed anything.

Fans Remember Mitte Beyond Breaking Bad

Mitte's impact extended far beyond his best-known television role. He became an advocate for disability representation and inclusion, using his experience to challenge stereotypes and encourage opportunities for disabled performers.

He worked with organisations including United Cerebral Palsy and Shriners Children's and served as president of The Mitte Foundation. His representatives remembered him as a passionate advocate who used his public platform to support others.

Online, fans have shared memories of his performance, his advocacy and his interactions with colleagues. Many have also urged people not to assume that someone is doing well simply because they appear cheerful in photographs or videos.

The response reflects the difficulty of understanding another person's private struggles from their public image alone. A smiling face or a peaceful moment cannot provide a complete picture of someone's emotional state.

A Reminder To Check in on Loved Ones

Moncada's account has left many fans mourning not only the loss of a beloved actor but also the struggles that may remain hidden from view. His decision to keep the details of their private conversations confidential has also highlighted the importance of respecting Mitte's privacy while remembering him with compassion.

As tributes continue, Mitte is being remembered for his work on Breaking Bad, his determination and his efforts to improve disability representation in entertainment.

His final video with Moncada captures a brief moment of friendship that has become especially poignant in retrospect. It cannot explain everything Mitte was experiencing, but it has reminded viewers that even people who seem happy in public may need support, understanding and someone willing to listen.