Robert Carradine, a well-known Hollywood actor from the famous acting Carradine family, passed away at the age of 71. The actor, best known for his roles in iconic films like “Revenge of the Nerds” and the Disney Channel’s “Lizzie McGuire,” lived with bipolar disorder for 20 years before dying by suicide, as confirmed by his family in a statement to the media on Tuesday.
Keith Carradine, Robert’s brother, emphasized that there is no shame in discussing mental health issues like bipolar disorder. He acknowledged Robert’s struggles with the illness and celebrated his talent and spirit. Despite a successful career spanning over four decades in both film and television, Robert Carradine did not achieve the same level of fame as his more renowned siblings, Keith and the late David Carradine.
Originally aspiring to become a race-car driver, Robert’s foray into acting began with appearances on TV shows like “Bonanza” in 1971 and in the film “The Cowboys” alongside John Wayne in 1972. Throughout his career, he worked on projects with esteemed directors like Martin Scorsese and Hal Ashby, starring in movies such as “Mean Streets” and “Coming Home.”
Robert gained significant recognition for his role as Lewis Skolnick in the 1984 hit comedy “Revenge of the Nerds.” He continued to portray the character in subsequent film sequels and TV adaptations, as well as appearing in various other projects alongside his brother David. Additionally, he found success on the small screen, notably in the Disney Channel series “Lizzie McGuire.”
In recent years, Robert’s career saw a resurgence when he was cast by Quentin Tarantino in the film “Django Unchained.” He also faced personal challenges, such as a car accident in Colorado in 2015, which led to his divorce from his wife Edith after a long marriage. Robert is survived by his three children, including actor Ever Carradine.
His daughter Ever Carradine expressed her deep bond with her father on social media, highlighting his unwavering love and support throughout her life. The news of Robert Carradine’s passing has deeply saddened his colleagues and fans, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of his impactful career.
For those struggling with mental health issues or in crisis, various resources are available for support and assistance. It is essential to be aware of the warning signs and reach out for help if needed.
