Patrick Muldoon’s family has shared heartbreaking details about the actor’s final moments, revealing the shock surrounding his unexpected death at the age of 57.
The Days of Our Lives star tragically passed away from what is believed to be a sudden heart attack at his Beverly Hills home on a Sunday. His producer girlfriend, Miriam Rothbart, found him unconscious in the bathroom, beginning a chain of events that would forever alter their lives.
Patrick’s sister, Shana Muldoon Zappa, gave an exclusive interview to the Daily Mail, in which she tearfully recalled the day of her brother’s death. She described how it began like any other Sunday morning, with Patrick having coffee with his girlfriend before going into the bathroom to take a shower.
Shana explained, “Miriam thought he was in there a little long—about 10 minutes—and when she went in, he was on the floor, not breathing. She called 911 and tried to revive him. By the time the paramedics arrived, it was too late.”
The family, who lives in Los Angeles, rushed to the scene, but Patrick was already gone. “We just had this beautiful Easter together, and I talked to him. He was supposed to have lunch with my husband the next day. It’s just unbelievable,” Shana continued.
To make matters worse, during their scramble to reach Patrick, their father fell and fractured his shoulder.
Patrick Muldoon, known for his role as Austin Reed on Days of Our Lives, was in peak physical health with no known medical conditions. His sister described him as an ex-athlete, practicing jiu-jitsu and living a healthy, active lifestyle. “He was at a high point in his life,” she added. “It just doesn’t make sense.”
The paramedics told the family that Patrick’s cause of death was a heart attack. “There were no signs of any other issues, and thankfully, he didn’t suffer,” Shana said.
Following Patrick’s death, his ex-girlfriend Denise Richards has been left inconsolable. A close friend revealed to the Daily Mail, “Denise is devastated. She can’t stop crying. Patrick was the ex she had the best relationship with. They were better friends than lovers, and they stayed in touch all these years. She’s just heartbroken.”
Patrick and Denise dated on and off during the 1990s and maintained a close friendship. The two were last seen together at the Saturn Awards in March 2026, where they walked the red carpet together, marking Patrick’s final public appearance.
Patrick’s relationship with Miriam Rothbart, whom he had been dating since the summer of 2023, was described as a strong bond. Shana called her “his life partner,” and noted that Miriam is also devastated by the loss.
Friends, co-workers, and fellow actors, including Dirty Hands co-star Erik Aude, have shared tributes to Patrick, describing him as a kind, funny, and generous person who made everyone around him feel special. Erik fondly remembered, “He was one of the good ones, and he was taken too soon.”
Patrick Muldoon’s passing has left a huge hole in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans. He is survived by his partner Miriam Rothbart, his parents Deanna and Patrick Muldoon Sr., his brother-in-law Ahmet Zappa, and their children Halo and Arrow Zappa.
Source: Daily Mail
