Robert Carradine Dies at 71: Family Reveals Long Battle With Bipolar Disorder, Says “It’s An Illness”

Hollywood actor Robert Carradine has passed away at the age of 71, leaving fans and the entertainment industry in mourning. The veteran performer, who began his career as a teenager, rose to fame for his portrayal of Lewis Skolnick in Revenge of the Nerds.

Born into the legendary Carradine acting dynasty, Robert was the son of John Carradine and the younger brother of Keith Carradine and the late David Carradine. Over the decades, he carved out his own place in Hollywood while remaining closely connected to his prominent family legacy.

Cause of Death Confirmed

Following his passing, Robert Carradine’s family confirmed that the actor died by suicide after a prolonged struggle with bipolar disorder. According to reports, he had been battling the condition for nearly two decades.

In an emotional interview, his brother Keith addressed the stigma surrounding mental health and spoke candidly about Robert’s illness. Emphasising compassion and awareness, Keith said:

“We want people to know 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. 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.”

Keith described Robert as wise, humorous, accepting and tolerant, adding that the family hopes his story will encourage open conversations about mental health.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

In a joint statement, other family members shared their grief while acknowledging Robert’s long struggle with bipolar disorder. The chronic mental health condition is marked by extreme mood swings, ranging from intense emotional highs (mania or hypomania) to deep depressive episodes.

Despite his diagnosis, Robert continued working and remained active, including focusing on his podcast in recent years. Observers noted that his recent social media posts showed no obvious public signs of distress.

Impact of David Carradine’s Death

Robert’s mental health challenges reportedly intensified following the 2009 death of his half-brother, David Carradine. David was found dead in a hotel room in Thailand, with reports indicating asphyxiation as the cause. Later investigations suggested the possibility of auto-erotic asphyxiation, though initial reports had left questions about the circumstances of his death.

According to reports, the tragedy deeply affected Robert and is believed to have contributed to the onset or worsening of his bipolar disorder diagnosis.

Personal Life

In his personal life, Robert Carradine was married to Edie Mani in 1990, and the couple separated after 28 years of marriage. They shared two children, Marika Reed Carradine and Ian Alexander Carradine. Robert also had a daughter, Ever Carradine, from a previous relationship with horse trainer Susan Snyder.

As tributes continue to pour in, Robert Carradine is being remembered not only for his on-screen legacy but also for the courage with which he faced his private struggles. His family’s message underscores a broader call to treat mental health challenges with understanding, compassion and openness.