Robert Carradine, the versatile actor who carved out his own identity within one of Hollywood’s most storied families and became a cult comedy icon in the 1980s, has died at 71.
His family confirmed his death in a statement Tuesday, sharing that he had lived with bipolar disorder for more than two decades. His brother, Keith Carradine, said he died by suicide and spoke candidly about the realities of mental illness, stressing that there should be no shame attached to it.
Born into the legendary Carradine acting dynasty, Robert was the son of character actor John Carradine and the younger brother of actors Keith Carradine and David Carradine. While his siblings achieved international recognition, Robert built a steady and resilient career defined by range, persistence, and a knack for scene-stealing performances.
A Los Angeles native, Carradine first appeared on television in Bonanza in 1971 and soon after landed a role in the 1972 western The Cowboys alongside John Wayne. Though acting was not initially his dream, the opportunity set him on a path that would span more than four decades.
Throughout the 1970s, he collaborated with respected filmmakers, appearing in Martin Scorsese’s Mean Streets, Hal Ashby’s Coming Home, and Samuel Fuller’s The Big Red One. He frequently worked alongside his brother David, including in The Long Riders and Cannonball, further cementing the Carradine name in Hollywood.
His breakout moment arrived in 1984 with Revenge of the Nerds. As Lewis Skolnick, the socially awkward but determined college student with an unforgettable laugh, Carradine anchored a film that became a defining comedy of its era. The role led to a theatrical sequel and two television follow-ups, and it remained closely tied to his public persona for decades. He later revisited the character’s legacy through pop culture appearances, including co-hosting the competition series King of the Nerds.
In the 2000s, a new generation met Carradine as the caring father on The Disney Channel’s Lizzie McGuire. Former co-star Hilary Duff remembered him as a warm and supportive presence on set, reflecting the affection many colleagues described.
Even as leading roles became less frequent, Carradine continued to work steadily. In 2012, Quentin Tarantino cast him in Django Unchained, giving him a notable late-career appearance that reintroduced him to film audiences.
Beyond acting, Carradine pursued a longtime passion for racing. In the late 1980s and 1990s, he drove for Lotus, fulfilling a dream he once believed would define his life before Hollywood intervened.
He faced personal challenges in later years, including a serious car crash in Colorado in 2015 that injured both him and his wife at the time. Despite setbacks, he remained professionally active and deeply connected to his family.
Carradine is survived by his three children, including actor Ever Carradine, who shared a heartfelt tribute recalling her father’s steadfast love and support. For those who worked with him and for audiences who grew up quoting his most famous lines, Robert Carradine leaves behind a legacy defined not only by comedy but by dedication, resilience, and heart.
If you or someone you know is struggling, in the United States the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988.