Patrick Muldoon, Star of Days of Our Lives, Dies at 57

Actor and producer Patrick Muldoon, known for his roles in the soap operas Days of Our Lives and Melrose Place, died suddenly on April 19, 2026, following a heart attack. He was 57 years old.

Born in San Pedro, California, Muldoon graduated from the University of Southern California (USC), where he was a member of the Trojans football team. He began his acting career during college with a two-episode arc on the sitcom Who’s the Boss? in 1990. Shortly after his graduation in 1991, he landed a three-episode recurring role on Saved By the Bell, playing the manager of the student hangout spot, The Max.

Muldoon gained fame for originating the role of Austin Reed on Days of Our Lives, a character he portrayed from 1992 to 1995 and then again in 2011. His performance was notable for its complexity, as Austin was a boxer entangled in romantic drama with Carrie Brady, played by Christie Clark. Muldoon later appeared on Melrose Place as the villainous Richard Hart from 1995 to 1996, a character whose violent actions led to his demise in a police shootout.

On the big screen, Muldoon starred as Zander Barcalow in the 1997 sci-fi film Starship Troopers, directed by Paul Verhoeven. The film, initially met with mixed reviews, has since developed a cult following among genre fans. Muldoon’s contributions to the film and television industry also included executive producing several projects, such as The Tribes of Palos Verdes, Arkansas, Marlowe, The Card Counter, and the upcoming film Kockroach, which features stars like Chris Hemsworth and Taron Egerton.

Beyond acting, Muldoon was a passionate musician, serving as the lead singer for the band The Sleeping Masses. The band’s song “The Woman Is the Way” was featured in the 2009 film Powder Blue. Described by friends as “endlessly generous” and “stylish, charismatic, and full of life,” Muldoon was known for his ability to make others feel safe and seen. He often brought his guitar to gatherings, embodying a rock ’n’ roll spirit that resonated with those around him.

Muldoon is survived by his partner, Miriam Rothbart; his parents, Deanna and Patrick Muldoon Sr.; his sister, Shana, and brother-in-law, Ahmet Zappa; and his cherished niece and nephew, Halo and Arrow Zappa. His sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of many who admired his work and cherished his friendship.

As news of his death spread, tributes poured in from fans and colleagues alike, highlighting the impact he made throughout his career. One commenter noted, "He brought so much joy to our screens and will be missed dearly," capturing the sentiments of many who grew up watching his performances.

Muldoon’s final film project, the crime thriller Dirty Hands, is set to be released later this year, ensuring that his legacy in the film industry continues even after his untimely departure.

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