Robert Carradine, the actor beloved for his roles as the affable father Sam McGuire on the Disney Channel series *Lizzie McGuire* and as the lead "nerd" Lewis Skolnick in the *Revenge of the Nerds* franchise, has died. He was 71.

Robert Carradine
Robert Carradine

Carradine died by suicide on February 23, 2026, following a nearly two-decade struggle with bipolar disorder, his family confirmed in a statement shared with Deadline and other outlets. The announcement came late Monday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans, former co-stars and mental health advocates who praised his warmth on screen and the family's candor about his mental health challenges.

"It is with profound sadness that we must share that our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother Robert Carradine has passed away," the family statement read. "In a world that can feel so dark, Bobby was always a beacon of light to everyone around him. We are bereft at the loss of this beautiful soul and want to acknowledge Bobby's valiant struggle against his nearly two-decade battle with Bipolar Disorder. We hope his journey can shine a light and encourage addressing the stigma that attaches to mental illness."

The family requested privacy as they grieve but emphasized openness to reduce shame around mental health. Carradine's older brother, actor Keith Carradine, told Deadline the illness "got the best of him," describing Robert as a bedrock of the family despite his challenges. He noted that the death of their half-brother David Carradine in 2009 had triggered Robert's mental health struggles, leading to his bipolar diagnosis.

Born Robert Reed Carradine on March 24, 1954, in Hollywood, he was the youngest son of legendary actor John Carradine and part of one of Hollywood's most storied acting dynasties. His brothers included David Carradine, star of *Kung Fu* and *Kill Bill*, and Keith Carradine, an Oscar winner for *I'm Easy*. His niece is actress Martha Plimpton, and his daughter Ever Carradine has appeared in shows like *The Handmaid's Tale*.

Carradine made his film debut in 1972's *The Cowboys* alongside John Wayne, playing a young cowboy in the Western classic. He gained early notice in *Coming Home* (1978), earning praise for his role as a conflicted Marine opposite Jane Fonda and Jon Voight. But it was the 1984 comedy *Revenge of the Nerds* that cemented his place in pop culture. As Lewis Skolnick, the brilliant but socially awkward leader of the Lambda Lambda Lambda fraternity, Carradine brought heart and humor to the underdog story. He reprised the role in three sequels, with fans nicknaming him the "King of the Nerds."

In 2001, Carradine found a new generation of admirers as Sam McGuire, the supportive, slightly goofy dad to Hilary Duff's Lizzie on the Disney Channel hit *Lizzie McGuire*. The series, which ran for two seasons and spawned a 2003 feature film, became a staple of early 2000s tween culture. Carradine's portrayal of a loving, relatable father resonated with viewers, and he often spoke fondly of the experience in interviews.

His career spanned more than five decades, with credits in films like *The Long Riders* (1980), where he played Robert Ford opposite his brothers David and Keith, and television shows including *The Equalizer*, *ER* and *The Mentalist*. He continued acting into recent years, appearing in independent films and guest spots.

Tributes poured in Monday night and Tuesday. Hilary Duff posted on Instagram: "There was so much love and laughter with you, Bobby. You made being on set feel like family. Rest easy, Sam McGuire." Co-stars from *Revenge of the Nerds*, including Anthony Edwards, shared memories of his kindness and comedic timing. Mental health organizations commended the family's decision to speak openly, noting that bipolar disorder affects millions and that destigmatization saves lives.

Carradine is survived by his children, including Ever, grandchildren, siblings and extended family. No funeral arrangements have been announced.

His death adds to the toll of mental illness in Hollywood, where high-profile losses have prompted greater focus on support resources. The family expressed hope that sharing his story would encourage others to seek help.

Carradine's legacy endures through the joy he brought to audiences — from the triumphant underdog in *Revenge of the Nerds* to the steadfast dad in *Lizzie McGuire* — and the courage his family showed in honoring his full story.