Hilary Duff has paid tribute to herLizzie McGuireco-starRobert Carradine following his death at the age of 71. Carradine, who played her on-screen father, died after a decades-long battle withbipolar disorder, his family confirmed. Duff wrote on Instagram that 'this one hurts' and said she always felt cared for by her television parents. Co-star Jake Thomas also shared his grief, describing Carradine as talented, pragmatic and, above all, family.

For those unfamiliar, they might be wondering: Who exactly was Robert Carradine?

Robert Reed Carradine was born on 24 March 1954 in Los Angeles to actress and artist Sonia Sorel and actor John Carradine. He was part of the Carradine acting family, the brother of Christopher and Keith Carradine, and a paternal half-brother of Bruce and David Carradine. His early life included a custody dispute after his parents divorced, during which he and his brothers spent three months as wards of the court in a home for abused children.

He was raised mainly by his stepmother, Doris Grimshaw, and believed she was his mother until meeting Sonia Sorel at a Christmas party at age 14. While in high school, he lived with his half-brother David in Laurel Canyon, where he pursued race-car driving and music. The brothers performed together in a musical quartet in clubs across Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Carradine made his film debut in 1972 inThe Cowboys, starring John Wayne. He later appeared in Martin Scorsese'sMean Streets, playing a killer who shoots a character portrayed by David Carradine.

In 1976, he played Jim Cantrell inCannonball, a cross-country car race film directed by Paul Bartel. The following year, he appeared in the thrillerOrcaand joined the cast ofJoyride. In 1978, he took on a role inComing Home, the Oscar-winning Vietnam War drama directed by Hal Ashby.

Carradine continued to work steadily in 1980, portraying one of the Younger brothers inThe Long Ridersalongside his brothers. That same year, he co-starred inThe Big Red One, a World War II drama directed by Samuel Fuller. In 1983, he appeared in the science fiction filmWavelengthand performed several of his own songs for the project.

Carradine achieved his most recognised commercial role in 1984 as Lewis Skolnick inRevenge of the Nerds. To prepare, he spent time at the University of Arizona during rush week to observe fraternity culture. He reprised the role in three sequels and served as executive producer on the latter two films.

The role established him in popular culture and led to later appearances connected to the franchise, including events such as the 2018 Niagara Falls Comic Con. In 2001, he appeared in Max Keeble'sBig Move, and in 2000 he co-starred inMom's Got a Date with a Vampire. His film work continued alongside regular television roles.

Carradine's television career began in 1971 with an appearance onBonanza. He later appeared onKung Fuin 1972 and continued with roles inThe Survival of Danaand the miniseriesThe Sun Also Rises. In 1987, he appeared inConspiracy: The Trial of the Chicago 8.

Source: International Business Times UK