Robert Carradine, Lizzie McGuire Star, Dead at 71

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Actor Robert Carradine, known for his roles in Revenge of the Nerds and Lizzie McGuire, has died at age 71. His family confirmed to the New York Times that he died by suicide after a long, private battle with bipolar disorder. His daughter, Ever Carradine, shared the news, and the family released a statement hoping his experience will help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. His brother, Keith Carradine, wants people to remember Robert’s kindness and celebrate his fight with the disease, emphasizing that there should be no shame in seeking help for mental health. He described Robert as a profoundly talented and accepting person who will be deeply missed, and the family will find comfort in remembering his humor and wisdom.

Growing up, it felt like everyone in Robert Carradine’s family was in the movies – his dad, John Carradine, was a really versatile character actor, known for everything from spooky horror films to Westerns and even Shakespeare! Funny enough, Robert wasn’t interested in acting at all. He dreamed of being a race car driver! He actually started with a small role in a John Wayne Western called The Cowboys back in 1972, and while it didn’t stop him from racing cars for years, it did make him realize he loved being on screen. Most people probably remember him as Lewis Skolnick, one of the nerds in Revenge of the Nerds, and later as the hilarious dad, Sam McGuire, on Lizzie McGuire with Hilary Duff. He even started filming a reboot of Lizzie McGuire for Hulu, but sadly it was canceled. Thankfully, he and the original cast got together for a fun table read of an old episode in 2020, which was a real treat for fans like me.

Below, tributes from the Carradine family and the cast of Lizzie McGuire.

If you’re struggling with thoughts of suicide, or if you know someone who is, please reach out for help. You can connect with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by simply calling or dialing 988.

Carradine family

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Carradine, our loving father, grandfather, uncle, and brother. He was a source of light and positivity in a world that often feels dim, and we are heartbroken by his loss. Robert bravely fought Bipolar Disorder for almost twenty years, and we hope his story will help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. We ask for privacy as we mourn this immense loss, and we appreciate your kindness and understanding.

Hilary Duff

Lalaine, who starred as David Carradine’s daughter on the popular show Lizzie McGuire, fondly remembered him as an “old friend.”

Lalaine

I was so saddened to hear about Bobby Carradine’s passing. Lalaine, who played a close friend to Duff on Lizzie McGuire, shared a really touching photo of him on her Instagram. She wrote that it just wasn’t fair and that she was really hurting. But she also expressed gratitude for the time she had with him, especially their last conversation, and how he was always so supportive, like a father figure. She ended by saying she loved him.

Hallie Todd

The actress who played Carradine’s wife on Lizzie McGuire developed a close friendship with him, and she expressed gratitude to the Disney Channel series for bringing them together for over 25 years.

Jake Thomas

Thomas McGuire, being the son in the McGuire family, likely shared the most screen time with Carradine and grew close to him like family.

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2026-02-25 01:54