Robert Carradine Cause of Death: Revenge of the Nerds and Lizzie McGuire Star Dies at 71
Robert Carradine, one of Hollywood's most beloved character actors and a proud member of the storied Carradine acting dynasty, has died. Carradine died by suicide on February 23, 2026, at the age of 71, after suffering from bipolar disorder for two decades. His death was announced by his brother Keith. His family has chosen to speak publicly about his mental health struggle in hopes of reducing stigma and encouraging others to seek help.
Robert Carradine Cause of Death: Bipolar Disorder and Suicide
Robert Carradine took his own life. His family issued a statement to Deadline: "It is with profound sadness that we must share that our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother Robert Carradine has passed away. In a world that can feel so dark, Bobby was always a beacon of light to everyone around him. We are bereft at the loss of this beautiful soul and want to acknowledge Bobby's valiant struggle against his nearly two-decade battle with Bipolar Disorder. We hope his journey can shine a light and encourage addressing the stigma that attaches to mental illness."
It was David Carradine's death in 2009 that reportedly triggered Robert's mental health illness, which was later diagnosed as bipolar disorder.
Brother Keith Carradine Speaks Out
Older brother Keith Carradine said: "We want people to know it, and there is no shame in it. It is an illness that got the best of him, and I want to celebrate him for his struggle with it, and celebrate his beautiful soul. He was profoundly gifted, and we will miss him every day. We will take solace in how funny he could be, how wise and utterly accepting and tolerant he was. That's who my baby brother was."
Who Was Robert Carradine?
Robert Reed Carradine was born on March 24, 1954, in Los Angeles, the son of actor John Carradine. He is the brother of Christopher and Keith Carradine, and paternal half-brother of the late David Carradine.
His career spanned more than five decades and over 140 acting credits:
| Project | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| The Cowboys | Film debut opposite John Wayne | 1972 |
| Mean Streets | Supporting role (Martin Scorsese) | 1973 |
| Coming Home | Supporting role | 1978 |
| The Long Riders | Bob Younger (with brothers Keith & David) | 1980 |
| Revenge of the Nerds | Lewis Skolnick | 1984 |
| Lizzie McGuire | Sam McGuire (Hilary Duff's TV dad) | 2001–2004 |
His acting career stretched back more than 50 years, to his TV debut on an episode of Bonanza in 1971. His daughter Ever Carradine is known for The Handmaid's Tale, Once and Again, and Commander in Chief. His niece is actress Martha Plimpton.
Hilary Duff and Co-Stars React
Hilary Duff, who played Robert's on-screen daughter in Lizzie McGuire, wrote a heartfelt Instagram tribute: "It's really hard to face this reality about an old friend. There was so much warmth in the McGuire family and I always felt so cared for by my on-screen parents. I'll be forever grateful for that. I'm deeply sad to learn Bobby was suffering. My heart aches for him, his family, and everyone who loved him."
Robert Carradine is survived by his children, grandchildren, brothers, nieces, nephews, and all those who had the honor of having him in their lives. His family has asked for privacy at this time.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
