Hollywood Icon Robert Carradine Passes Away at 71, Family Advocates for Mental Health Awareness
Robert Carradine's Passing
Robert Carradine, the esteemed actor known for his extensive contributions to film and television, has passed away at the age of 71 on February 23. He had been struggling with bipolar disorder for nearly twenty years, and his death was ruled a suicide. His brother, fellow actor Keith Carradine, confirmed the heartbreaking news through a family statement, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness. Carradine leaves behind a large family spanning multiple generations, who are requesting privacy during this difficult time. He is celebrated for his roles in classics such as Bonanza, Kung Fu, The Cowboys, Revenge of the Nerds, and the Lizzie McGuire series.
Family's Call for Mental Health Awareness
Family's statement highlighting mental health
The Carradine family released a heartfelt statement through a media outlet, expressing their deep sorrow over Robert's passing. They stated, "It is with profound sadness that we must share that our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother Robert Carradine has passed away. 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. At this time we ask for the privacy to grieve this unfathomable loss. With gratitude for your understanding and compassion."
They further added, "We want people to know it, and there is no shame in it. It is an illness that got the best of him, and I want to celebrate him for his struggle with it, and celebrate his beautiful soul. He was profoundly gifted, and we will miss him every day. We will take solace in how funny he could be, how wise and utterly accepting and tolerant he was. That’s who my baby brother was."
A Diverse Career
Body of work
Throughout his five-decade career, Carradine showcased his talent across various mediums, including films, television series, reality shows like King of the Nerds, and voice acting roles, demonstrating his remarkable versatility. Notably, two of his films were featured at the Cannes Film Festival in 1980: Samuel Fuller's semi-autobiographical The Big Red One, alongside Mark Hamill and Lee Marvin, and Walter Hill's The Long Riders, which starred his brothers, David and Keith. For younger audiences, he is fondly remembered as the caring father in Disney's popular series Lizzie McGuire, where he appeared in all episodes and the subsequent 2003 film featuring Hilary Duff.
Carradine Family Legacy
Robert Carradine's family legacy
As the son of the legendary character actor John Carradine, Robert Carradine hailed from one of Hollywood's most distinguished acting families. In addition to his brother Keith, he had a half-brother, David Carradine, and a maternal half-brother, Michael Bowen. His niece is actress Martha Plimpton, and he is also survived by three children, including his daughter Ever Carradine.