The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Robert Carradine, the beloved actor from "Revenge of the Nerds" and "Lizzie McGuire," who has died at the age of 71. His family confirmed his death was by suicide, revealing his long and private struggle with bipolar disorder in a heartfelt statement aimed at destigmatizing mental illness.
A Family's Courageous Statement
In a moving announcement to Deadline on Monday, the Carradine family expressed their profound grief while shining a light on Robert's mental health journey. "It is with profound sadness that we must share that our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother Robert Carradine has passed away," they stated. They described him as "a beacon of light" despite his internal battles, emphasizing his "valiant struggle against his nearly two-decade battle with bipolar disorder."
The family hopes his story will encourage open conversations about mental health, stating, "We hope his journey can shine a light and encourage addressing the stigma that attaches to mental illness." They have requested privacy as they navigate this devastating loss.
Keith Carradine's Tribute to His Brother
Robert's older brother, actor Keith Carradine, spoke openly to Deadline about the importance of transparency regarding mental illness. "We want people to know it, and there is no shame in it," he asserted. Keith celebrated Robert's resilience, calling him "profoundly gifted" and highlighting his humor, wisdom, and tolerance. "That's who my baby brother was," he added, reflecting on the deep bond they shared.
The Trigger and Diagnosis
Robert Carradine's mental health challenges were reportedly triggered by the tragic death of his older brother, David Carradine, in 2009. David died at age 72 from asphyxiation in a hotel room in Thailand, an event that profoundly affected Robert. He was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a condition he battled for almost twenty years.
A Storied Acting Career
Born in 1954, Robert was the youngest son of actor John Carradine and part of a renowned acting family that included his brothers David, Keith, and Christopher. He launched his film career in 1972 with "The Cowboys," starring alongside John Wayne. His early roles included appearances in the Oscar-winning film "Coming Home" and Martin Scorsese's "Mean Streets," where he notably shot his brother David in a scene.
In 1980, he starred in "The Long Riders" with his brothers, portraying the Younger brothers in a depiction of a real outlaw family. However, his breakthrough came with the 1984 comedy "Revenge of the Nerds," where he played lead character Lewis Skolnick. Carradine immersed himself in the role, even going undercover at the University of Arizona to blend in as a nerd. He reprised the role in three sequels released in 1987, 1992, and 1994.
Later Success and Personal Life
Carradine gained renewed fame with a younger audience as Sam McGuire, Lizzie's father, in the hit children's show "Lizzie McGuire." He appeared in 65 episodes from 2001 to 2004, acting alongside Hilary Duff and becoming a household name for a new generation.
His personal life included a daughter, actor Ever Carradine, with Susan Snyder. He later married Edith Mani, with whom he had two children, Marika and Ian, before divorcing in 2015 after 25 years of marriage. During their 2017 divorce proceedings, Mani alleged that Carradine attempted to kill them both in a 2015 car crash in Colorado, with Carradine admitting he was in a "psychotic state" at the time.
Mental Health Resources
In light of this tragedy, it is crucial to highlight available mental health support. In the United States, individuals can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or visiting 988lifeline.org. In the United Kingdom and Ireland, Samaritans offer support at freephone 116 123 or via email. Australians can reach Lifeline at 13 11 14. For international resources, befrienders.org provides a directory of helplines.
Robert Carradine's legacy extends beyond his iconic roles to his family's brave advocacy for mental health awareness. As they grieve, their message resonates: addressing mental illness with compassion and without stigma is essential for healing and prevention.
