‘lizzie Mcguire’ Stars Commemorate The Death Of On-screen Dad Robert Carradine

On February 23, the news broke that Robert Carradine, who famously played Lizzie McGuire’s father on the show, passed away at 71. It was reported that he died by suicide after battling bipolar disorder for two decades.

Naturally, people online were in shock, especially after other recent, untimely deaths of beloved actors, including Eric Dane, James Van Der Beek, and Catherine O’Hara.

Carradine’s ‘Lizzie McGuire costars took to Instagram to pay tribute to their on-screen family member, who became an important part of their lives throughout the show and after.

Hallie Todd, who played Carradine’s wife on the show, wrote:

“My heart is broken. I’m going to miss my sweet buddy so much. He was a generous and loyal friend. He was brave, strong, kind and had a wicked sense of humor. He was a champion for the people he loved and always wanted the best for us. He was a wonderful actor, a brilliant guitar player, and the most incredible and devoted father. Over the last 25 years, our families grew extremely close, celebrating birthdays, graduations, Halloweens and Thanksgivings together. My friendship with Bobby and his family is probably my most treasured personal gift from working on Lizzie McGuire. He was my family on screen and off. My heart, love, strength and prayers are with his family and loved ones as they navigate through this enormous loss.

Hilary Duff also wrote a sweet post for Carradine in the midst of the promotion of her newest album, “Luck… Or Something,” which largely explores trying to process her childhood and her complicated family relationships.

“This one hurts,” Duff wrote. “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. 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, who played Lizzie’s younger brother Matthew McGuire on the show, posted a similar tribute to his McGuire father.

“My heart hurts today,” he wrote, echoing Duff’s sentiment. “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.

“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.

“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. My heart is with Marika and Ian. Rest easy, Bobby. Love you. — ‘Jaker'”