Robert Carradine, a character actor whose career spanned decades and included memorable roles in films like “Revenge of the Nerds” and the Disney Channel series “Lizzie McGuire,” has died by suicide. He was 71.
The Carradine family confirmed his death in a statement to Deadline, noting his “valiant struggle against his nearly two-decade battle with Bipolar Disorder.” They expressed hope that his experience would encourage open discussion and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Carradine’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and friends, highlighting his warmth, kindness, and talent. Hilary Duff, who starred alongside Carradine as her on-screen father in “Lizzie McGuire,” shared her grief on social media, stating, “This one hurts. It’s really hard to face this reality about an old friend.” She recalled the sense of care she felt as part of the “McGuire family” and expressed gratitude for the support she received from her on-screen parents.
Martha Plimpton, Carradine’s niece, offered a particularly poignant remembrance, describing him as “the best one of all” his siblings. She shared a childhood memory of his kindness and affection, recalling how he “cuddled and kidded” her during a visit to her father in Los Angeles. Plimpton also emphasized Carradine’s acting ability, asserting he was “the best actor of the bunch, by a thousand miles.” She spoke of his inherent kindness, non-judgmental nature, and genuine love for others.
Ever Carradine, Robert’s daughter, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, describing her father as “all heart.” She reflected on growing up with a single father in Laurel Canyon and credited him with instilling in her a sense of normalcy despite an unconventional upbringing. She emphasized his unwavering love and support, stating she always knew he had her back.
Born on , in Los Angeles, Carradine came from a prominent acting family. He was the youngest son of actors John Carradine and Sonia Sorel, and a brother to actors David and Keith Carradine. His early career included a role in the 1972 film “The Cowboys” alongside John Wayne, and an appearance in a short-lived television series based on the film.
Carradine’s career encompassed a diverse range of projects. He appeared in Martin Scorsese’s 1973 film “Mean Streets,” the Oscar-winning “Coming Home” (), and “The Long Riders” (). However, he achieved widespread recognition for his portrayal of Lewis Skolnick in the “Revenge of the Nerds” franchise, beginning with the 1984 film and continuing through several sequels.
On television, Carradine’s credits included appearances in “Kung Fu” (alongside his brother David), “Police Story,” “The Fall Guy,” and “ER.” His role as Sam McGuire, Hilary Duff’s father, in “Lizzie McGuire” introduced him to a new generation of viewers. He also appeared in “Dark Skies” and numerous television movies.
Carradine’s death underscores the often-hidden struggles faced by individuals battling mental health issues. His family’s decision to publicly acknowledge his battle with bipolar disorder is a courageous step toward reducing the stigma associated with mental illness and encouraging others to seek help. The family requested privacy during this difficult time, expressing gratitude for understanding and compassion.
While Carradine’s comedic timing and memorable characters brought joy to audiences for decades, the tributes from those who knew him personally reveal a man defined by kindness, warmth, and a genuine love for others. His legacy extends beyond his on-screen performances, serving as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and support for those facing mental health challenges.
