Patrick Muldoon, best known for his roles on Days of Our Lives and Melrose Place, has died at the age of 57 after suffering a heart attack.
Muldoon passed away suddenly on Sunday morning, April 19. The news comes as a shock to fans and colleagues, especially given how active he remained in both acting and producing.
Just days before his death, Muldoon shared an update on social media announcing his involvement as a producer on the upcoming film Kockroach, which is currently filming in Australia. In the post, he expressed excitement about the project and its cast, signaling continued momentum in his career.
Born and raised in California, Muldoon began acting during college before landing early television roles in Who’s the Boss? and Saved by the Bell in the early 1990s. His breakout came in 1992 when he was cast as Austin Reed on Days of Our Lives, a role he played through 1995 before returning to the series from 2011 to 2012.
He later joined Melrose Place in the mid 1990s, portraying the villain Richard Hart, further cementing his place in the era’s defining television landscape.
Muldoon successfully transitioned into film, appearing in Starship Troopers in 1997 and Stigmata in 1999. More recently, he appeared in Deadlock alongside Bruce Willis and in Marlowe alongside Liam Neeson, in which he also served as a producer.
In addition to his screen work, Muldoon remained connected to his soap roots. Last year, he teased a potential return to Days of Our Lives in a playful video posted by Peacock, ending with the line, “Oh my God I’m in Salem! It’s good to be back.”
His latest film, Dirty Hands, is expected to be released later this year.
Muldoon is survived by his partner Miriam Rothbart, his parents Deanna and Patrick Muldoon Sr., and his sister Shana.
Tributes
Following news of his death, friends and former co-stars shared tributes honoring both his talent and his character.
Jeremy London reacted with shock, writing, “Wtf is happening?!? I just worked with Patrick.”
Dean Cain, who worked with Muldoon on The Dog Who Saved Christmas films, posted, “RIP, my friend,” alongside prayer and broken heart emojis.
Actor Jake Getman remembered Muldoon as a positive presence on set. “RIP Patrick Muldoon. Worked with him when I was 8 on Little Dead Rotting Hood, a great guy and always kept the energy light. #gonetoosoon.”
Alison Sweeney shared a longer tribute, writing, “This is such heartbreaking news. Pat was a rare kind of person—brilliantly talented, endlessly kind, and generous in spirit. I was so lucky to have worked with him when I first started at Days. He made me feel at ease right away. He brought his unique charm and humor to work every day. A truly gifted guy, and one who will be profoundly missed.”
Friends also described Muldoon as someone who made a lasting impact off-screen.
“He loved animals and people alike, gave unforgettable hugs, and possessed a rare quality of making others feel safe and seen,” they shared. “Stylish, charismatic, and full of life, he embraced each day with a full-tilt, rock ’n’ roll spirit.”
His sister, Shana Muldoon Zappa, previously revealed that he was found unconscious at home and could not be revived.
Muldoon’s career spanned decades across television and film, but those who knew him best point to something beyond the work.
A presence.
A spirit.
And a generosity that won’t be forgotten.
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