Robert Carradine, best known for his roles in Revenge of the Nerds and Disney Channel’s Lizzie McGuire, has died at 71.
The veteran actor’s passing was confirmed Thursday by his management company. In a heartfelt statement shared with Deadline, Carradine’s family expressed their deep sorrow. “We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother, Robert Carradine,” the statement read. “His loss leaves an immeasurable void in our lives.”
Carradine built a decades-long career in Hollywood, earning recognition for his performances in films like The Long Riders before becoming a pop culture favorite as Lewis Skolnick in the Revenge of the Nerds franchise. A new generation later embraced him for his recurring role as Sam McGuire, Lizzie’s dad, on the hit Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire.
In their tribute, Carradine’s family described him as a bright presence in their lives. “In a world often shrouded in darkness, Bobby was a constant source of light and joy for everyone fortunate enough to know him,” they shared.
The family also revealed that Carradine had battled Bipolar Disorder for nearly two decades, calling him courageous in facing the condition. They expressed hope that by speaking openly about his journey, they can help reduce stigma surrounding mental health and encourage more conversations about it.
Carradine’s death marks the loss of a beloved character actor whose work spanned generations of film and television audiences.
