Robert Carradine, the veteran film and television actor known for roles in “Revenge Of The Nerds,” “The Long Riders,” and the Disney series “Lizzie McGuire,” has died at 71. His family confirmed the news, sharing that he had lived with bipolar disorder for nearly two decades. They spoke openly about his struggle, encouraging conversation around mental health and the importance of removing stigma.
Born into the storied Carradine acting family, Robert was the youngest son of John Carradine and brother to David, Keith and Christopher Carradine. He made his film debut in 1972 in “The Cowboys” alongside John Wayne, later earning acclaim for performances in “Coming Home” and Martin Scorsese’s “Mean Streets.” In 1984, he became a cultural fixture as Lewis Skolnick in “Revenge Of The Nerds,” a role that defined a generation of studio comedies.
Two decades later, Carradine reached a new audience as Sam McGuire on “Lizzie McGuire,” earning affection from a younger generation of viewers. Co star Hilary Duff paid tribute, writing that she was deeply saddened by his passing, while Jake Thomas remembered him as funny, pragmatic and eccentric. Off screen, Carradine was known for his warmth, humor and devotion to family.
Beyond acting, Carradine pursued music and race car driving with equal passion. He played guitar with brothers Keith and David, performed with Peter Yarrow and Ramblin Jack Elliott, and raced at the Grand Prix level with team Lotus alongside Paul Newman. He is survived by his children, grandchildren and extended family, who remember him as kind, generous and deeply loved.