Robert Carradine’s daughter, Ever Carradine, 51, whom he raised as a single father before she went on to follow in his acting footsteps, starring in “The Handmaid’s Tale,” shared a mournful post for her dad, who passed away on Feb. 23.
In an 18-photo Instagram carousel, Ever illustrated an imprint of the incredible man her dad was and will be remembered as. “My dad died today. My sweet, funny dad, who’s only 20 years older than I am, who never missed an opportunity to drive me to the airport or tell me how much he loved my homemade salad dressing, is gone,” the actress wrote.
Ever Carradine Remembers Dad Robert Carradine’s Life Lessons
“If you knew my dad, you know he’s the guy that’s always there. Invite him to dinner? He’s in. Kid’s Little League game in Simi Valley, just tell him what time. Red eye flight and need a ride home from the airport, just text him your column number after you get your bags,” she continued of Robert’s kindness.
Ever went on to describe what it was like growing up with the beloved “Lizzie McGuire” actor, who devoted his time to her despite the young age he was when she was born.
“Growing up in the 70s and 80 with a single dad in Laurel Canyon is not exactly the recipe for a grounded childhood, but somehow mine was,” Ever wrote. “Whenever anyone asks me how I turned out so normal, I always tell them it’s because of my dad. I knew my dad loved me, I knew it deep in my bones, and I always knew he had my back. I think it’s partly because we basically grew up together.”
“Twenty years age difference really isn’t that much, and while I never ever thought of him as a sibling, I did always think of him as my partner,” she continued. “We were in it together. I never wanted to let him down, and I wanted him to trust that I had his back the same way that he had mine. I learned a lot from my dad — never put a horse away wet, don’t let hose water dry on your car, change your own wiper blades and never wave a forced call.”
Ever ended her purposeful message by emphasizing the depth of her dad’s love that will continue to be held deep within her heart. “I also learned something that was more foundational than I ever really understood, and that was what a waste of time it is to hold a grudge. My dad was a lover, not a fighter,” she wrote.
“He was all heart, and in a world so full of conflict and division, I think we can all take a page out of his book today, open our hearts and feel and share the love,” Ever continued. “I have a thousand stories and I’m being flooded with memories – so if you see me, please ask me about my dad, Bobby Carradine, who made me who I am. Rest easy, dad. I love you the most.”
Robert Carradine’s Brother Keith Sheds Light on Actor’s Mental Health Struggles
GettyRobert’s death was announced by Deadline after his beloved family shared a statement, explaining that he had taken his life after suffering from bipolar disorder for 20 years.
Within the statement shared on behalf of the “Revenge of the Nerds” actor, Robert’s family wanted to shed light on mental illness and let others know that there is no shame in suffering — or reaching out for help.
“We want people to know it, and there is no shame in it,” Robert’s older brother, Keith, explained. “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. 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.”
Robert was 71 years old when he passed away. May he rest in eternal peace.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to reach the toll-free Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It’s available 24 hours a day, seven days a week (dial 888-628-9454 for assistance in Spanish). You can also speak with a trained crisis counselor anytime by texting HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
