American actor and producer Patrick Muldoon, widely recognized for his roles in Days of Our Lives and Starship Troopers, has died at the age of 57, according to U.S. media reports. His manager confirmed that he passed away at home on Sunday after suffering a heart attack.
Muldoon became a familiar face to television audiences in the 1990s, also appearing in the hit series Melrose Place. He was best known for portraying Austin Reed on Days of Our Lives from 1992 to 1995—a boxer who developed a romantic storyline with Carrie Brady, played by Christie Clark. He later reprised the role briefly in 2011.
On the big screen, Muldoon took on the role of Zander Barcalow in Starship Troopers, directed by Paul Verhoeven, where he starred opposite Casper Van Dien as a rival in a love triangle.
Tributes quickly poured in following news of his passing. His former co-star Alison Sweeney described him as “brilliantly talented” and “endlessly kind,” recalling how he made her feel welcome early in her career. Actress Dina Meyer, who worked with him on Starship Troopers, said he was “one of the kindest people” she had known and likened him to a brother.
Born in San Pedro, California, Muldoon began acting while studying at the University of Southern California, where he also played for the USC Trojans. After graduating in 1991, he landed a recurring role on Saved by the Bell before achieving his breakthrough on Days of Our Lives.
Beyond acting, he was involved in music with his band The Sleeping Masses and worked behind the scenes producing films such as The Tribes of Palos Verdes and Marlowe. He was also attached as a producer to the upcoming project Kockroach, reportedly starring Chris Hemsworth.
Muldoon’s final on-screen appearance is expected in the upcoming action-crime film Dirty Hands, where he reunites with co-star Denise Richards. He is survived by his partner Miriam Rothbart, his parents, and extended family.
