Condolences: Hilary Duff Speaks Out After “Lizzie McGuire” Dad Robert Carradine Takes His Own Life At 71: This One Hurts’

Lizzie McGuire, Robert Carradine

Condolences: Hilary Duff Speaks Out After “Lizzie McGuire” Dad Robert Carradine Takes His Own Life At 71: This One Hurts’

Sad news.

Actor Robert Carradine, best known for his role in Lizzie McGuire, has d!ed at age 71.

His passing was announced on February 23 after he took his own life following a long battle with bipolar disorder, his family said. In a statement shared with Deadline, his loved ones described him as a “beacon of light in a world that can feel dark” and said they hope his story helps raise awareness and understanding of mental illness.

#HilaryDuff, who starred as Carradine’s daughter on the hit #Disney sitcom, was one of many who spoke out following the tragic news. Sharing throwback images on set with Carradine, she wrote, “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.” Hilary added, “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. ?”

Carradine’s older brother, Keith Carradine, also reflected on his life and struggles, saying the family wants people to know there is “no shame” in dealing with the condition that ultimately “got the best of him.” Carradine is survived by his children, grandchildren, brothers and extended family, who have asked for privacy as they grieve.