Robert Carradine, the American actor best known for ‘Revenge of the Nerds’ and the Disney Channel series ‘Lizzie McGuire’, has died aged 71 following what his family described as a “valiant struggle” with bipolar disorder. His death on February 23 was confirmed to People magazine.
In a statement, his family paid tribute to him as a “beacon of light” and expressed hope that his journey would help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Carradine made his film debut opposite John Wayne in ‘The Cowboys’ (1972) and went on to appear in Martin Scorsese’s ‘Mean Streets’ (1973) and the Oscar-winning ‘Coming Home’ (1978). He gained wider recognition as Lewis Skolnick in the Revenge of the Nerds franchise and later starred as Sam McGuire in Lizzie McGuire and its 2003 film adaptation.
Following news of his death, Hilary Duff and co-star Jake Thomas shared tributes, recalling his warmth and generosity.
A member of the renowned Carradine acting dynasty, he was the son of John Carradine and brother of David Carradine and Keith Carradine.
He is survived by his children, including actor Ever Carradine, grandchildren and extended family.
