Patrick Muldoon, the actor best known for his roles in the iconic soap opera Days of Our Lives and the cult classic film Starship Troopers, has passed away at the age of 57. His manager confirmed to media outlets that Muldoon died of a heart attack at his home on Sunday.
Muldoon first captured audiences' hearts as Austin Reed, the charming boxer entangled in a romance with Carrie Brady (played by Christie Clark) on NBC's Days of Our Lives from 1992 to 1995. He made a brief return to the show in 2011. His career soared further when he portrayed Zander Barcalow, the romantic rival in Paul Verhoeven's 1997 sci-fi blockbuster Starship Troopers.
Colleagues and friends have been quick to share their grief and memories. Alison Sweeney, who acted alongside him on Days of Our Lives, posted a heartfelt tribute on social media:
"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 humour to work every day. A truly gifted guy, and one who will be profoundly missed."
Dina Meyer, his co-star from Starship Troopers, also expressed her sorrow:
"I can't believe he's gone. Pat was one of the kindest people I've ever known and was like a brother to me. He was such a light... always making us laugh. My sincere condolences to his family, and everyone who loved him. He will be missed."
Born in San Pedro, California, Muldoon began acting while studying at the University of Southern California, where he also played football for the Trojans. After graduating in 1991, he landed a recurring role on the popular sitcom Saved By the Bell. His breakthrough came with Days of Our Lives, leading to a three-season stint as the villain Richard Hart on Melrose Place from 1995 to 1996.
Beyond acting, Muldoon was a multifaceted talent. He fronted the band The Sleeping Masses and worked behind the scenes as a producer on films like The Tribes of Palos Verdes, Arkansas, and Marlowe. He was also set to produce the upcoming feature Kockroach, starring Chris Hemsworth. His final on-screen appearance will be in the forthcoming action-crime thriller Dirty Hands, where he stars opposite another Starship Troopers alum, Denise Richards.
Patrick Muldoon is survived by his partner, Miriam Rothbart; his parents, Deanna and Patrick Muldoon Sr; his sister and brother-in-law, Shana and Ahmet Zappa; and his niece and nephew, Halo and Arrow Zappa.