Hollywood’s Robert Carradine Dies by Suicide at 71 After Bipolar Disorder Battle

Robert Carradine, the American actor best known for his role as Lewis Skolnick in the 1984 cult classic ‘Revenge of the Nerds,’ has died by suicide at age 71 following a nearly two-decade struggle with bipolar disorder. His brother Keith confirmed the death in a statement to Deadline, revealing the actor’s “valiant struggle” with the illness.

The family described Carradine as “a beacon of light” and hoped his journey would “shine a light and encourage addressing the stigma that attaches to mental illness.” Carradine made his film debut in 1972 with ‘The Cowboys’ and built a decades-long career spanning studio films, independent cinema, and television.

Beyond acting, he was a passionate race car driver who competed at Grand Prix level alongside Paul Newman. He is survived by his children, actress Ever Carradine, Marika, Ian, brothers, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Key Points:

Carradine’s death highlights the devastating toll of untreated or treatment-resistant bipolar disorder.
His family’s openness aims to combat stigma around mental illness.
Loved ones mourn, while his legacy encourages mental health conversations.
This signals the importance of mental health awareness and support.
The timing, with family’s statement, prioritises destigmatisation.

‘Revenge of the Nerds’ star Robert Carradine dies by suicide at 71 after 20-year bipolar battle, family hopes to challenge mental illness stigma.

Sources: The Cable, Deadline, Family Statement