Updated: February 25, 2026
In the wake of Hollywood actor Robert Carradine’s tragic passing on February 23, 2026, at age 71, public interest has surged around his personal life—especially his long marriage to Edie Mani. Often referred to in searches as “Edie Mani first husband,” the query points to her role as the late actor’s spouse from 1990 to 2018. Edie, whose full name is Edith Mani (sometimes listed as Edith Carradine during the marriage), stayed largely out of the spotlight but was a key figure in Robert’s life for nearly three decades.
This post dives into what we know about Edie Mani, her relationship with Robert Carradine, their family, and the challenges they faced. While Edie has kept a low profile, her story offers a glimpse into the realities behind Hollywood marriages.
Table of Contents
Who Is Edie Mani?
Edie Mani is best known as the former wife of actor Robert Carradine, famous for roles in Revenge of the Nerds, The Long Riders, and as the dad in Lizzie McGuire. Unlike many celebrity spouses, Edie didn’t pursue fame herself. Public records and reports describe her as a private individual who supported Robert through his career highs and personal struggles.
Little is publicly documented about Edie’s early life, career, or background before meeting Robert. She entered the public eye primarily through her marriage and the family’s occasional mentions in media. Following their divorce, she has remained discreet, with no major interviews or social media presence drawing attention.
How Did Edie Mani and Robert Carradine Meet and Marry?
The couple’s story began in the late 1980s. Robert had recently ended a relationship with Susan Snyder (mother of his daughter, actress Ever Carradine). Soon after, he connected with Edie, and their relationship moved quickly.
- Key milestone: They tied the knot on January 7, 1990.
- Duration: The marriage lasted 28 years until their divorce in 2018 (proceedings started in 2015 after about 25 years together).
- Edie stood by Robert during his acting career peaks and his passion for car racing.
Their union brought stability for a time, with Edie helping navigate the demands of Hollywood life and family responsibilities.
Family Life and Children
One of the strongest aspects of Edie and Robert’s marriage was their family. They welcomed two children together:
- Daughter Marika Carradine
- Son Ian Carradine
Robert also had an older daughter, Ever Carradine (born to Susan Snyder), making three children in total. The family dynamic appeared close-knit for many years, with Edie playing a central role as a mother and partner.
Here’s a quick overview in table form:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Marriage Date | January 7, 1990 |
| Divorce Year | 2018 (filed 2015) |
| Duration | 28 years |
| Children Together | Marika (daughter), Ian (son) |
| Robert’s Other Child | Ever Carradine (with Susan Snyder) |
| Notable Challenges | 2015 car crash, mental health issues, contentious divorce |
The couple raised their kids amid the ups and downs of show business, with Robert often crediting family support in interviews over the years.
Challenges and the End of the Marriage
No long marriage is without hurdles, and Edie and Robert’s faced significant ones. In 2015, a serious car accident in Colorado made headlines. Edie accused Robert of deliberately causing the crash (driving into a semi-truck), while he claimed it stemmed from an acute psychotic episode related to bipolar disorder—allegedly after medication issues. Both survived, but the incident strained their relationship deeply.
- The divorce process began in late 2015.
- It finalized in 2018 amid public reports of contention.
- Robert later spoke about his long battle with bipolar disorder (over two decades), which contributed to personal struggles.
Despite the difficulties, the marriage produced lasting family bonds, with their children remaining connected to both parents.
Conclusion: A Chapter in a Hollywood Legacy
Edie Mani’s story is tied to Robert Carradine’s— a 28-year marriage that weathered fame, family joys, and tough times. As the actor’s first and only wife, she shared in his journey from rising star to family man facing mental health challenges. Following Robert’s recent passing, tributes from family (including daughter Ever) highlight love amid complexity.
While Edie remains private, her role as a devoted partner and mother endures in the Carradine family narrative. In an industry full of fleeting relationships, their long union stands out—even if it ended painfully. As fans reflect on Robert’s legacy, Edie Mani deserves recognition for the quiet strength she brought to it.