Robert Carradine, Revenge of the Nerds and Lizzie McGuire actor, dies aged 71

The Guardian World

by Sian Cain

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Robert Carradine, a celebrated actor known for his roles in *Revenge of the Nerds* and *Lizzie McGuire*, has passed away at the age of 71. His family revealed that he took his own life after a nearly two-decade-long battle with bipolar disorder, a condition they hope to bring attention to through their statement. This heartbreaking news highlights the ongoing challenges faced by individuals living with mental health conditions and underscores the importance of raising awareness about such issues. Carradine was part of a prominent acting family and began his career in the 1970s, appearing in *The Partridge Family* and *Grease: School Version*. He later gained wider recognition for his role as Dr. Samuels in *Revenge of the Nerds* (1984) and as Mr. McGuire in *Lizzie McGuire*, a Disney Channel series that aired in the early 2000s. His career spanned decades, but it was overshadowed by his struggle with bipolar disorder, which he reportedly managed for nearly two decades. The family’s statement not only mourned Carradine’s passing but also aimed to shed light on the stigma surrounding mental health issues. By sharing his story, they hoped to encourage others to seek help and destigmatize conditions like bipolar disorder. This approach aligns with growing global efforts to prioritize mental health awareness, particularly in high-profile cases where public figures’ struggles can inspire conversations about wellness and resilience. Carradine’s death serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden battles many face due to mental illness. His passing is not just a loss for his family and fans but also a call to action for society to address mental health with greater compassion and understanding. As a prominent actor, his legacy will likely inspire ongoing dialogue about the importance of mental wellness in both public and private lives.

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/24/2026