Academy Award-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis has shared a deeply emotional response to the passing of actor Robert Carradine, revealing the profound personal connection they shared as her "first love." Carradine, known for his roles in films like "The Cowboys" and "The Long Riders," died on Monday at the age of 71. His family confirmed to Deadline that he had been grappling with bipolar disorder for almost twenty years.
A Touching Tribute on Social Media
Upon learning of his death, Curtis took to Instagram to honor Carradine with a heartfelt post, reminiscing about the joyful moments they experienced together. She described him as her first love, highlighting the enduring impact he had on her life. The tribute painted a picture of a relationship that, though it ended romantically, left a lasting bond of friendship and mutual respect.
Their Unforgettable First Meeting
The 67-year-old Curtis recounted their initial encounter, which she called a "very public meet cute." It occurred live on television during the Dinah Shore show, where a group of second-generation actors—now often referred to as "Nepo babies"—were gathered. Curtis revealed that Carradine deliberately rearranged the seating arrangements to position himself next to her.
"And he kissed me, live on television," she added, emphasizing the spontaneity and charm of that moment. This televised kiss marked the beginning of a relationship that would introduce Curtis to new aspects of life, including domesticity and motherhood, as Carradine had a three-year-old daughter, Ever, at the time.
Connections Through Film and Friendship
Curtis noted that Ever has since grown into a talented actress, and she reflected on how her relationship with Carradine provided her first experience with partnership and family life. She also shared an interesting anecdote about Carradine's past romance with actress Melanie Griffith, with whom he made a movie.
"Later in my life, Melanie and I became colleagues and ride or die best friends, and we remain so to this day," Curtis said. It was Griffith who personally informed Curtis of Carradine's passing, underscoring the interconnected nature of their Hollywood circles.
Sweet Memories and Cinematic Links
One of the more poignant recollections Curtis shared was her sudden realization that Carradine had acted in John Wayne's 1972 Western "The Cowboys." "He was my first crush in the movies, and I didn't realize it," she admitted, connecting her childhood admiration to their later relationship.
She further highlighted that Carradine starred in another Western, "The Long Riders," in 1980, which featured her future husband, Christopher Guest. This detail illustrates the serendipitous ways their lives remained intertwined through the film industry.
A Lasting Friendship
Despite their romantic relationship ending, Curtis emphasized that they maintained a friendship over the years. "We remained friends after we broke up, and Ever and I have as well," she said, showcasing the enduring connections that transcended their initial love.
In her tribute, Curtis concluded with a heartfelt farewell: "The long and winding road. Rest in speed and humor and love, Bobby." Her words not only mourn his loss but celebrate the humor, love, and shared history that defined their bond, offering a glimpse into the personal side of two beloved Hollywood figures.
