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The Lizzie McGuire community is mourning the loss of one of its cherished members: Robert Carradine.
Robert Carradine, renowned for his role as Lizzie’s father, Sam McGuire, in the beloved Disney Channel series, has passed away at the age of 71. His family confirmed his death on Monday, February 23, attributing it to his ongoing struggle with bipolar disorder.
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our dear father, grandfather, uncle, and brother, Robert Carradine,” his family shared with Deadline. “In a world often shrouded in darkness, Bobby stood out as a beacon of light to everyone he encountered. We are heartbroken by the loss of this extraordinary soul and wish to honor Bobby’s brave battle with bipolar disorder that spanned nearly two decades. Our hope is that his journey inspires others to confront the stigma surrounding mental health. We kindly request privacy during this unimaginably difficult time and thank you for your understanding and empathy.”
His brother, Keith Carradine, emphasized the importance of discussing such struggles, saying, “We want people to know it, and there is no shame in it.”
The entertainment world experienced the loss of several iconic figures in 2026. The year began with the passing of Broadway star and influencer Bret Hanna-Shuford at 46. On January 11, the renowned composer Guy Moon died at 63. Just days after, Grammy-nominated musician John Forté was discovered dead at 50. The month continued with the loss of many more talents. […]
“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,” Keith added. 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.”
The stars of Lizzie McGuire have been sharing their emotional tributes to the former McGuire patriarch, including lead actress Hilary Duff.
Scroll down to read how Duff and her costars are remembering Carradine:
Hilary Duff
“This one hurts. It’s really hard to face this reality about an old friend,” Lizzie actress Duff, 38, shared via Instagram alongside two throwback photos of her and Carradine during their Lizzie McGuire days. “There was so much warmth in the McGuire family and I always felt so cared for by my on-screen parents. 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. 💔”
Jake Thomas
Thomas, 36, who played Lizzie’s brother, Matt, shared a picture of the pair on the Lizzie McGuire set via Instagram and wrote, “My heart hurts today.”
“I was fortunate to know Bobby for most of my life. And he was one of the coolest guys you could ever meet. Funny, pragmatic, sometimes cranky, always a little eccentric,” Thomas continued.
“He was a talented actor, musician, and director. But more than anything, he was family. I have many fond memories being with him and his family throughout my life. Good moments, challenging moments, and lots of laughs between,” he added.
“I looked up to him growing up. And later in life, I came to realize he thought I was pretty neat, too. So I guess I was doing something right in his eyes,” Thomas went on. “My heart is with Marika and Ian. Rest easy, Bobby. Love you. -’Jaker.’”
Hilary Duff’s breakout role on Lizzie McGuire yielded years of success for the actress that continues today, while her costars chose slightly different paths. The sitcom — starring Duff (Lizzie McGuire), Lalaine (Miranda Sanchez), Adam Lamberg (Gordo), Jake Thomas (Matt McGuire), Hallie Todd (Jo McGuire) and Robert Carradine (Sam McGuire) — aired from 2001 to 2004 and […]
Lalaine
“It’s really not fair. I’m f***ed up atm.. I am thankful tho,” Lalaine, who played Lizzie’s best friend Miranda shared via Instagram, per Deadline. “Thankful I had time with you, thankful for our last conversation, and your constant fatherly like support. I love you Bobby.”