Jamie Lee Curtis calls Robert Carradine her 'first love' in tribute

Robert Carradine, 71, has died; his brother told USA TODAY that Carradine died by suicide and had struggled with bipolar disorder. Jamie Lee Curtis posted an Instagram tribute calling him her "first love" and recalled their time together in the late 1970s.

Actor Robert Carradine has died at 71, and family members have spoken publicly about his death. His brother Keith Carradine told USA TODAY that Robert died by suicide and that he had struggled with bipolar disorder. Jamie Lee Curtis posted an emotional Instagram tribute calling him her "first love" and described their relationship and time together in Laurel Canyon. Curtis said actress Melanie Griffith informed her of Carradine's death and noted a continuing friendship with his daughter, Ever Carradine. Key reported details: - Robert Carradine, aged 71, has died; his brother Keith Carradine confirmed to USA TODAY that the death was by suicide and said Robert had long struggled with bipolar disorder. - Jamie Lee Curtis posted an Instagram tribute saying Carradine was her "first love," recalling they met on the late-1970s Dinah Shore show and lived for a time in Laurel Canyon. - Curtis wrote that Melanie Griffith informed her of the death and that she maintained a lasting friendship with Carradine's daughter, Ever Carradine. - Carradine's screen work included roles in Revenge of the Nerds and Lizzie McGuire, and earlier appearances in The Cowboys, Coming Home, Mean Streets, and The Long Riders. Summary: The reported death has prompted public remembrances from colleagues and friends, including an Instagram tribute from Jamie Lee Curtis. Family statements reported the cause and noted a history of bipolar disorder. Undetermined at this time.