SYDNEY, 24 February 2026 – The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Robert Carradine, the versatile actor and member of one of Hollywood’s most storied dynasties, who has passed away at the age of 71. Best known for his iconic role as Lewis Skolnick in the Revenge of the Nerds franchise and as the lovable father in Disney’s Lizzie McGuire, Carradine’s career spanned over five decades across film and television.
Latest Updates: Passing of a Hollywood Icon
Reports emerged today, Tuesday, 24 February 2026, confirming that Robert Carradine has died at the age of 71. While specific details regarding the cause of death are being shared by the family, the news has sparked a wave of tributes from former co-stars and fans alike. His passing marks the end of an era for the Carradine family, a lineage that has been central to American cinema since the early 20th century.
A Legacy in Film and Television
Born on 24 March 1954, in Hollywood, Robert was the youngest son of legendary actor John Carradine and actress Sonia Sorel. He followed in the footsteps of his half-brothers, David and Keith Carradine, making his initial mark in Western series such as Bonanza and Kung Fu.
However, it was the 1984 cult classic Revenge of the Nerds that cemented his place in pop culture. As Lewis Skolnick, Carradine became the face of the “nerd” revolution, a role he reprised in several sequels. Later in his career, he found a new generation of fans playing Sam McGuire, the gentle and supportive father on the hit Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire (2001–2004).
Career Highlights and Personal Details
Beyond his comedic roles, Carradine was a respected dramatic actor, appearing in critically acclaimed films such as The Big Red One (1980) and John Carpenter’s Escape from L.A. (1996). He also remained active in the industry well into his later years, recently appearing in the Western The Night They Came Home (2024).
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Carradine |
| Date of Birth | 24 March 1954 |
| Place of Birth | Hollywood, California, USA |
| Date of Death | 24 February 2026 |
| Parents | John Carradine and Sonia Sorel |
| Notable Siblings | David Carradine, Keith Carradine, Bruce Carradine |
| Key Roles | Lewis Skolnick (Revenge of the Nerds), Sam McGuire (Lizzie McGuire) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Robert Carradine’s most famous role?
Robert Carradine is most widely recognised for his role as Lewis Skolnick in the 1984 film Revenge of the Nerds. He is also beloved by younger audiences for playing Sam McGuire in the Disney Channel series Lizzie McGuire.
How many brothers did Robert Carradine have?
Robert was part of a large acting family. He had two full brothers, Keith and Christopher, and several half-brothers, including the late David Carradine and Bruce Carradine.
Did Robert Carradine ever work with his family?
Yes, the Carradine family often collaborated. Robert made early appearances in his brother David’s famous series Kung Fu and appeared alongside his brothers in the 1980 Western The Long Riders, where the Carradine brothers played the Younger brothers.
When did Robert Carradine pass away?
Robert Carradine passed away on 24 February 2026, at the age of 71.