Actor Robert Carradine, best known for his lead role in the Revenge of the Nerds movie series, has died at 71. He won the hearts of millions with his scene-stealing performances on Disney’s beloved Lizzie McGuire. His family would later announce that Carradine had taken his own life after a long battle with Bipolar Disorder.
Born in 1954, Davitt Carradine starred on the big screen right from his teen years. He enjoyed memorable turns on televised series such as The Cowboys and led the television film The Hatfields and the McCoys. He is best known for his role as Lewis Skolnick in the 1984 cult classic Revenge of the Nerds. Carradine went on to reprise this iconic role in following sequels, cementing his Hollywood legacy.
Carradine’s contribution to the Revenge of the Nerds franchise would have long-lasting effects. He was the star of such superlative films as Coming Home, Mean Streets and The Long Riders. He starred with his brothers Keith and David in Walter Hill’s The Long Riders. Collectively, they proved their family’s prowess in the industry.
Carradine’s versatility extended to television as well. He made his mark as the character actor who played Lizzie McGuire’s dad in the hit Disney television series, which originated in 2001. His character quickly became a central part of the overall storyline, making him a favorite with a younger generation of theater-goers.
Despite his professional accomplishments, Carradine waged a losing, almost twenty-year struggle with mental illness. His family shared profound love for him and his cherished spirit in this hard moment. In a statement, they wrote, “This disease got the best of him, but since he was patient and up for anything, we want to make sure that his fight celebrates and honors his gorgeous spirit. He was so talented and we will miss him every day. We’ll take comfort in his humor, wisdom, and amazing acceptance—that’s how my baby brother will always be with us.”
His family remembered him as “a beacon of light to everyone around him.” They wanted to focus instead on the indelible mark he left on all who knew him.
