American actor Robert Carradine, best known for his role as Sam McGuire on Disney’s Lizzie McGuire, has died at the age of 71.
In a heartbreaking statement to Deadline, Carradine’s family revealed that the Revenge of the Nerds actor had struggled with bipolar disorder for the last two years and confirmed that he’d taken his own life.
“It is with profound sadness that we must share that our beloved father, grandfather, uncle, and brother Robert Carradine has passed away,” the statement reads.
“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.”
Speaking to the publication, the actor’s brother Keith Carradine wanted the public to know that there’s no shame in struggling with the disorder.
“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,” the actor’s brother said.
“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.”
Lizzie McGuire costars share tributes in memory of Robert Carradine
Tributes have begun to flow for Carradine, with fellow Lizzie McGuire star and singer Lalaine (who played Miranda Sanchez) sharing an Instagram post of the star on Instagram.
“It’s really not fair. I’m fucked up ATM… I am thankful tho. Thankful I had time with you, thankful for our last conversation, and your constant fatherly-like support. I love you Bobby,” she wrote.
Jake Thomas, who played Carradine’s son and menace Matthew McGuire, also shared a touching tribute for his TV dad, remembering the star as the “coolest guy you could ever meet”.
“I was fortunate to know Bobby for most of my life,” Thomas began.
“Funny, pragmatic, sometimes cranky, always a little eccentric. He was a talented actor, musician and director. But more than anything, he was family.”
Thomas ended his statement, sharing his heart is with Marika and Ian during this devastating period.
Carradine was famous for playing Lizzie McGuire‘s goofy dad, Sam McGuire, on the hit Disney series Lizzie McGuire, alongside Hilary Duff, Hallie Todd and Adam Lamberg.
He’s also known for his role as Lewis Skolnick on Revenge of the Nerds and The Cowboys.
Carradine was set to reprise his role as Sam McGuire in the Lizzie McGuire reboot before it was nixed.
The actor is survived by his wife, Edie Mani, their children, grandchildren, brothers, nieces and nephews.
