Robert Carradine, ‘Lizzie McGuire’ Dad, Dies by Suicide at 71

Robert Carradine, best known for his role as Sam McGuire, the father of Hilary Duff’s character in the Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire, has died by suicide at the age of 71. His family confirmed he had been battling bipolar disorder for nearly two decades.

Tributes from ‘Lizzie McGuire’ Cast

Hilary Duff expressed her grief on Instagram, sharing photos with Carradine and writing, “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.”

Hallie Todd, who played Jo McGuire, Carradine’s on-screen wife, shared her heartbreak, stating, “My heart is broken. I’m going to miss my sweet buddy so much. He was a generous and loyal friend…He was my family on screen and off.”

Jake Thomas, who portrayed Matt McGuire, described Carradine as “one of the coolest guys you could ever meet” and added, “But more than anything, he was family.”

Family Statement on Carradine’s Death

The Carradine family released a statement acknowledging his long struggle with bipolar disorder. “In a world that can experience so dark, Bobby was always a beacon of light to everyone around him,” the statement read. “We are bereft at the loss of this beautiful soul and aim for 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.”

A Veteran Actor’s Career

Robert Carradine, the son of actor John Carradine and brother to actors David and Keith Carradine, had a prolific career spanning several decades. He appeared in films such as Mean Streets, Coming Home, The Big Red One, The Long Riders, Revenge of the Nerds, The Player, and Django Unchained. USA Today reports that his television credits include Bonanza, The Fall Guy, ER, NYPD Blue, and The Practice.

Keith Carradine emphasized the importance of acknowledging his brother’s mental health struggles, stating, “We want people to understand it, and there is no shame in it. 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.”

Robert Carradine is survived by his children, Ever Carradine, Marika Reed Carradine, and Ian Alexander Carradine, as well as his brothers, Keith and Christopher Carradine.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help. Resources are available at www.rte.ie/helplines.