Legendary ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘Starship Troopers’ Patrick Muldoon star dies at 57
The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Patrick Muldoon, whose career spanned television, film, and music. The actor and producer died at the age of 57 after suffering a heart attack at his home in Beverly Hills, according to his manager, who confirmed the news to Variety.
His passing occurred on Sunday morning, with further details later shared by his family. His sister, Shana Muldoon-Zappa, told TMZ that Muldoon had gone to shower and was later found unconscious on the bathroom floor by his girlfriend, Miriam Rothbart. Paramedics attempted to revive him at the scene.
A career that defined an era
Muldoon built a steady presence in Hollywood over decades, beginning his career while still a student at the University of Southern California. Early appearances included roles on sitcoms such as “Who’s the Boss?” and “Saved by the Bell,” before his breakthrough role took shape.
He became widely recognized for portraying Austin Reed on “Days of Our Lives,” a role he played from 1992 to 1995 and later revisited nearly two decades later. He also gained further attention as Richard Hart on “Melrose Place,” appearing across multiple seasons.
On the big screen, Muldoon was known for his role in the 1997 science fiction film “Starship Troopers,” where he starred alongside Denise Richards. The two maintained a close friendship over the years and later reunited professionally in the upcoming film “Dirty Hands,” set for release this year.
Beyond acting, Muldoon pursued music as the lead singer and guitarist for The Sleeping Masses, while also earning producing credits on several projects, including “The Tribes of Palos Verdes” and “Marlowe.”
Tributes and final moments
In one of his final public appearances, Muldoon attended the 2026 Saturn Awards in March, posing for photos alongside Richards. Just a day before his death, he shared a message on Instagram expressing excitement about working on the film “Kockroach,” which is currently in production.
Following the news, tributes poured in from colleagues and loved ones. Actress Alison Sweeney, who worked with him on “Days of Our Lives,” wrote on X that the news was “heartbreaking,” describing him as “brilliantly talented” and “endlessly kind.”
His “Starship Troopers” co-star Dina Meyer also shared a message, saying she “can’t believe he’s gone” and remembered him as “one of the kindest people” she had known.
Richards paid tribute as well, calling Muldoon her “best friend” and “family” in a social media post, reflecting on their decades-long bond.
Muldoon is survived by his partner Miriam Rothbart, his parents, his sister and her family, leaving behind a legacy marked by lasting roles and deep personal connections.
