Robert Carradine Dies at 71; Family Speaks Out on Mental Health

Robert Carradine, a talented actor and beloved member of Hollywood’s storied Carradine clan, has passed away at the age of 71. His death is a tragic reminder of the devastating impact of mental illness on individuals and their loved ones.

Born on March 24, 1954, to actor John Carradine, Robert was part of a family that valued creativity and perseverance. He made his big-screen debut in 1972 alongside John Wayne in The Cowboys, which marked the beginning of a successful acting career that spanned over four decades.

Robert’s passion for acting was matched only by his love for music and racing. Despite having no formal training or ability to read music, he maintained a deep love for playing guitar, often performing alongside his brothers Keith and David at the Sheridan Opera House in Telluride, Colorado. He also had a successful stint as a driver on team Lotus with Paul Newman, where winning was not just about speed but also about proving oneself as the best.

As an actor, Robert’s versatility earned him roles in iconic films like Mean Streets (1973), Coming Home (1978), and The Long Riders (1980). His breakout performance in Revenge of the Nerds (1984) cemented his status as a beloved figure among fans. He went on to find new generations of admirers as the father in the Lizzie McGuire series.

Despite his many accomplishments, Robert’s life was marked by a nearly two-decade battle with bipolar disorder. His family has chosen to speak out about his struggle, hoping to raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding mental illness.

“We want people to know it, and there is no shame in it,” said Keith Carradine, Robert’s older brother. “It is an illness that got the best of him, and I want to celebrate him for his struggle with it.”