Actor’s Passing Linked to Anoxic Brain Injury, Officials Confirm
Months after the passing of beloved actor Robert Carradine, the cause of his death has been officially determined. The star, best known for his role in the 1984 cult comedy Revenge of the Nerds, died at the age of 71.
According to documents released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, Carradine’s death resulted from an anoxic brain injury sustained during what authorities described as a suicide attempt. The manner of death has been officially ruled as suicide.
The newly released records offer a somber look into the final weeks of the veteran actor’s life, highlighting a prolonged battle with severe mental illness, a struggle his family has publicly acknowledged.
Details of Final Hospitalization
Robert Carradine, who portrayed the iconic character Lewis Skolnick, died on February 23, 2026. Medical Examiner records indicate a history of bipolar disorder, severe depression with psychotic features, anxiety, and previous suicidal ideation.
The investigative summary reveals that Carradine voluntarily admitted himself to UCLA’s Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital on January 16, 2026, due to experiencing suicidal thoughts. The following day, hospital staff discovered him unresponsive in his room following an incident investigators characterized as an apparent hanging involving a leather belt.
Medical personnel were able to restore circulation, and Carradine was subsequently transferred to intensive care. He remained hospitalized for over five weeks, during which his condition continued to decline. He was pronounced dead on February 23.
Official Findings
The Medical Examiner’s report specifically lists the cause of death as ‘sequelae of anoxic brain injury’ resulting from the hanging. The report also notes that no foul play is suspected in connection with his death.
This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is in distress or crisis, support is available. In the US, you can connect with people who can support you by calling or texting 988 anytime. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
