The family of actor Robert Carradine has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), alleging that the hospital's psychiatric unit staff failed to implement standard safety procedures, which they claim contributed to his death.
According to the lawsuit obtained by TheWrap, Carradine, who suffered from bipolar disorder, severe depression, and anxiety, admitted himself to UCLA's locked psychiatric unit on February 4, 2026, seeking treatment for his anxiety. He reportedly expressed relief at being hospitalized, believing the structured environment would be helpful. However, his family contends that the reality of his care fell short of expected safety standards.
The suit specifically cites the failure to confiscate Carradine's belt upon admission, a measure the family argues is standard practice for psychiatric patients with active suicidal thoughts and a history of suicide attempts. The documents state that a belt can be used for self-harm. Carradine's family also alleges that a rolling bedside table, not typically found in the locked unit, was left in his room.
Carradine reportedly attempted suicide 19 hours after his admission. He never regained consciousness and suffered an anoxic brain injury, spending his final five weeks in intensive care. The actor died on February 23, 2026, at the age of 71. His family asserts that UCLA's alleged shortcuts with essential safety protocols directly led to his death.
The lawsuit further claims that UCLA staff did not adhere to the required 15-minute check-ins, leaving Carradine alone for extended periods. The family is seeking general, special, economic, and wrongful death damages.
Robert Carradine was known for his roles in "Revenge of the Nerds" and "Lizzie McGuire." He is survived by his three children: Ever, Marika, and Ian.