Robert Carradine: Lizzie McGuire and Revenge of the Nerds star dies aged 71 as Hilary Duff leads tributes
US actor Robert Carradine, known for his roles in Lizzie McGuire and Revenge of the Nerds, has died at the age of 71.
The actor’s death was confirmed by his family. They issued a statement to Deadline which read: “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 on 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.”
Carradine was best known to millennials around the world as Sam McGuire, the dad of Lizzie McGuire in the Disney Channel show of the same name. Starring alongside Hilary Duff, Carradine played the role from 2001 until 2004, as well as in the film spin-off of the series.
He also has brief roles in ER, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, The Twilight Zone, and Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman.
Carradine also had many film credits to his name. His breakout role came in the 1984 comedy film Revenge of the Nerds and its sequels. He also appeared in flicks such as Escape From L.A, Ghosts of Mars, and Django Unchained among many others.
Hilary Duff has led tributes to her former co-star. Sharing an image of the pair together on the Lizzie McGuire set, Duff said: “This one hurts. It’s really hard to face this reality about an old friend.
“There was so much warmth in the McGuire family and I always felt so cared for by my on-screen parents. I’ll be forever grateful for that. I’m deeply sad to learn Bobby was suffering. My heart aches for him, his family, and everyone who loved him.”
Jake Thomas, who played Lizzie’s brother Matt on the show, added: “I was fortunate to know Bobby for most of my life. And he was one of the coolest guys you could ever meet. Funny, pragmatic, sometimes cranky, always a little eccentric.”
“He was a talented actor, musician and director. But more than anything, he was family. I have many fond memories being with him and his family throughout my life. Good moments, challenging moments, and lots of laughs between.”