Jamie Lee Curtis Mourns ‘First Love’ Robert Carradine After His Death: ‘We Became a Little Family’

Jamie Lee Curtis has shared a heartfelt tribute to her late ex-boyfriend, Robert Carradine, following his passing at the age of 71. The renowned actress recounted their romantic history and the lasting impression Carradine and his daughter, Ever, had on her life, describing them as “my first loves.”

The sad news of Carradine’s death was announced on 23 February by his family, who noted that he had been battling bipolar disorder for nearly two decades. Curtis, in a post on Instagram the day after, expressed her grief and shared that it was her friend Melanie Griffith who first informed her of Carradine’s passing.

Reflecting on their relationship, Curtis reminisced about their memorable introduction during a live broadcast of *The Dinah Shore Show*. She recounted how Carradine, both keen to sit beside her and expressive in his affection, kissed her on-air. This public moment encapsulated the spontaneity and romance of their early connection.

Curtis described her profound bond with Carradine’s daughter, Ever, highlighting an incident when she met the then-three-year-old in a burns unit where she was receiving treatment for a serious injury. Curtis remembered the child’s radiant smile despite her circumstances, and it was during this difficult time that the budding family unit began to form. Curtis reflected on the simplicity and beauty of life in Laurel Canyon during the late 1970s, sharing cherished memories of daily activities such as going to the local market and doing laundry with Ever.

The actress also touched upon the thrill of life with Carradine, who had a daring side as a racecar driver. Curtis joked about the riskiness of their adventures as he drove “fast and furious” in his Corvette along Mulholland Drive. She described a moment when she realised he was an actor she adored from childhood, revealing a deeper layer to their connection.

Despite their eventual romantic split, Curtis and Carradine maintained a friendship. She noted that Ever and she have continued to share a bond throughout the years. “The long and winding road,” she wrote in her tribute, reflecting on the enduring affection that persisted despite the changes in their lives.

Carradine’s family released a moving statement to announce his death, describing him as a “beacon of light” in dark times. They expressed their sorrow over the loss of such a “beautiful soul” and acknowledged the challenges he faced with his mental health. They hoped his struggles would help combat the stigma surrounding mental illness and requested privacy as they navigated their grief.

Carradine’s career included notable films such as *The Cowboys*, in which he co-starred with John Wayne, as well as appearances in *Mean Streets*, *Coming Home*, and his iconic role in *Revenge of the Nerds*. He also gained popularity as the father of Hilary Duff’s character in the early 2000s Disney Channel series *Lizzie McGuire*. Carradine is survived by three children: Ever, Marika, and Ian.

Ever Carradine, now a successful actress known for her role in *The Handmaid’s Tale*, also honoured her father’s memory in an emotional post on Instagram. She reflected on their unconventional upbringing in Laurel Canyon, crediting Carradine with much of her stability despite the challenges they faced. “I always knew he had my back,” she wrote, highlighting their unique partnership and shared journey through life.

Melanie Griffith acknowledged Carradine’s extraordinary character in a message of condolence to Ever, recalling her past relationship with him. Curtis echoed this sentiment, expressing her appreciation for the shared love they all experienced during their intertwined lives, in a time long gone but not forgotten. Her comments resonated with nostalgia, affirming the deep connections formed in those formative years.