Hollywood Actor Robert Carradine Passes Away at Age 71
Robert Carradine, a seasoned Hollywood actor whose career spanned more than five decades, has died at the age of 71. He was best known for his roles in the 1980s cult classic Revenge of the Nerds and the popular teen comedy series Lizzie McGuire. Carradine took his own life after a long battle with bipolar disorder, a condition that worsened following the death of his brother David in 2009.
A Legacy in Film and Television
Carradine came from a family of actors, with his father John Carradine and brothers Keith, David, and Bruce all pursuing careers in the entertainment industry. While he never achieved superstar status, Carradine worked continuously, appearing in notable films such as Martin Scorsese's Mean Streets (1973) and Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained (2012). He also starred alongside his brothers in Walter Hill's western The Long Riders (1980), which featured real-life siblings in key roles.
His performance in the Oscar-winning drama Coming Home (1978) showcased his talent as a suicidal Vietnam veteran, sharing the screen with Jane Fonda and Jon Voight. A younger audience recognized him as the endearing father in Lizzie McGuire (2001-04) and its film adaptation, endearing him to a new generation of fans.
Cult Success with Revenge of the Nerds
Carradine's most iconic role came in Revenge of the Nerds (1984), a comedy about college misfits rebelling against athletic bullies. Initially hesitant due to the title, he auditioned and won the lead role of Lewis Skolnick, complete with a distinctive laugh. The film, made on a $6 million budget, grossed over $40 million and spawned three sequels, all featuring Carradine. He later hosted the reality TV show King of the Nerds (2013-15), cementing his status in nerd culture.
On-Set Encounters and Personal Struggles
Carradine had memorable interactions with Hollywood legends, including a run-in with Lee Marvin on the set of The Big Red One (1980), where Marvin famously told him, "Fuck you, Carradine," before showing kindness when Carradine fell ill. He also recalled being reduced to tears by John Wayne during his film debut in The Cowboys (1972), though he noted Wayne later adjusted his performance based on Carradine's advice.
Despite his success, Carradine often expressed ambivalence about acting, preferring his passion for car racing. He competed professionally in events like the 24 Hours of Daytona, driving a Ferrari and finishing eighth overall in 1978. Off the track, he enjoyed driving a decommissioned police car, joking about the politeness it inspired in Los Angeles traffic.
Family and Survivors
Born in Los Angeles to John Carradine and actor Sonia Sorel, Carradine was raised partly by his father's third wife after his parents' divorce. He is survived by his brothers Keith and Christopher, half-brother Michael Bowen, and his children Ever, Madrika, and Ian from previous relationships. His career leaves a lasting impact on both cult film enthusiasts and family audiences alike.
