Robert Carradine, a well-known Hollywood actor from the famous Carradine acting family, passed away at the age of 71. His family revealed that he had been living with bipolar disorder for 20 years and died by suicide, emphasizing that there is no shame in discussing mental health challenges. Despite his successful career spanning over four decades in the film and television industry, Robert did not achieve the same level of global fame as his more renowned siblings, Keith and David Carradine, who sadly passed away in 2009.
Initially, Robert’s passion was to become a race-car driver, but his career path shifted towards acting after being encouraged by his brother David to audition for a role in “The Cowboys.” Throughout his career, he appeared in various notable productions, including Martin Scorsese’s “Mean Streets” and Hal Ashby’s “Coming Home.” However, his breakout role came in 1984 with the hit comedy “Revenge of the Nerds,” where he portrayed the character Lewis Skolnick.
Despite facing personal challenges and setbacks, Robert continued to work steadily in the industry. Notably, he gained recognition for his role as Lizzie McGuire’s father in the Disney Channel series. His daughter, Ever Carradine, fondly remembers him as a loving and supportive father, emphasizing the strong bond they shared.
In 2012, Robert was cast by Quentin Tarantino in “Django Unchained,” showcasing his versatility as an actor. Tragically, he was involved in a car accident in Colorado in 2015 and later divorced from his wife, Edith, after a long marriage. He is survived by his three children, including actor Ever Carradine, who cherishes the close relationship she had with her father.
The entertainment industry mourns the loss of Robert Carradine, recognizing his contributions to film and television over the years. His passing serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health struggles openly and seeking support when needed.