Robert Carradine, the beloved actor renowned for his portrayal of the nerdy Lewis Skolnick in the classic comedy 'Revenge of the Nerds', has died at the age of 71. His family confirmed his passing in a statement sent to the entertainment website Deadline, expressing their deep sorrow over the loss of a talented actor and a beautiful soul. In their message, relatives highlighted Carradine's struggle with bipolar disorder for nearly two decades, aiming to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.

In the statement, Carradine's family conveyed their hope that sharing his story would help others dealing with similar challenges. His brother, fellow actor Keith Carradine, emphasized the importance of destigmatizing mental illness, stating that there is no shame in having such conditions. The family decision to disclose Carradine's diagnosis reflects a broader initiative to encourage open discussions about mental health, potentially fostering understanding and support for those in need.

Born into a family of actors, Robert Carradine was the son of legendary actor John Carradine and sibling to David, Keith, and Christopher Carradine. His illustrious career began in 1972 with a role alongside John Wayne in 'The Cowboys,' and he continued to leave his mark in the entertainment industry through various compelling performances, with his work in 'The Return of the Living Dead' and 'Lizzie McGuire' among his most notable. His legacy not only includes his cinematic contributions but also his passionate advocacy for mental health awareness.