Robert Carradine Dead at 71 After Long Battle With Bipolar Disorder

Actor Robert Carradine has died at the age of 71. His family said he took his own life after a nearly two-decade battle with bipolar disorder.

In a statement to Deadline, the Carradine family said they were “bereft at the loss of this beautiful soul” and described him as a “beacon of light” who struggled bravely with mental illness. His brother, Keith Carradine, said the family wanted people to know about Robert’s illness to help fight the stigma around mental health. “There is no shame in it,” he said. “It is an illness that got the best of him.”

Born on March 24, 1954, Robert Carradine was the youngest son of actor John Carradine and part of a well-known Hollywood family that includes brothers David Carradine and Keith Carradine.

He made his film debut in 1972 in The Cowboys, starring alongside John Wayne. He later appeared in Coming Home and Mean Streets. In 1980, he starred with his brothers in The Long Riders.

Carradine became widely known for his role as Lewis Skolnick in the 1984 comedy Revenge of the Nerds, a film that became a popular franchise. He later introduced himself to a younger generation as the father on the Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire.

Outside of acting, Carradine loved music and often played guitar with his brothers. He also had a passion for race car driving and competed at the Grand Prix level in the 1980s and 1990s.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren, brothers, nieces, and nephews. His family has asked for privacy as they grieve.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, help is available.