Patrick Muldoon, the actor best known for his roles as Austin Reed on NBC’s long-running soap opera Days of Our Lives and as Richard Hart on Fox’s primetime drama Melrose Place, has died at the age of 57. His passing was confirmed by his representative on April 5, 2026, though the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed as of this writing. Muldoon’s career spanned over three decades, marked by memorable performances in daytime and primetime television, as well as appearances in film and theater.
Born on September 27, 1968, in San Pedro, California, Muldoon began acting in the late 1980s before landing the role of Austin Reed on Days of Our Lives in 1992. His portrayal of the charming, often-torn romantic lead earned him a dedicated fanbase and two Soap Opera Digest Award nominations. He remained on the show until 1995, with brief returns in later years, becoming one of the series’ most recognizable faces during its 1990s heyday.
Following his success on Days of Our Lives, Muldoon joined the cast of Melrose Place in 1995, taking over the role of Richard Hart, a wealthy and enigmatic businessman entangled in the show’s signature web of romance, betrayal, and intrigue. His character became central to several major storylines during the show’s fourth and fifth seasons, contributing to the series’ cultural impact as a defining fixture of 1990s primetime television.
Beyond television, Muldoon appeared in films such as Starship Troopers (1997), where he played Sergeant Ace Levy alongside Casper Van Dien and Denise Richards, and The Large Hit (1998). He also guest-starred on numerous series including CSI: Miami, NCIS, and Charmed, demonstrating a versatility that allowed him to transition between genres throughout his career. In recent years, he had stepped back from regular acting roles to focus on personal projects and occasional convention appearances.
News of his death prompted an outpouring of tributes from former co-stars and fans across social media. Actress Catherine Bell, who worked with Muldoon on JAG, wrote on Instagram: “Patrick was a kind, talented man with a warm presence both on and off set. My thoughts are with his family and friends.” Former Days of Our Lives co-star Kristian Alfonso shared a photo of the two from their time on the show, captioning it, “So sad to hear this news. Austin Reed will always live on in our hearts.”
According to verified public records, Muldoon was born in Los Angeles County and resided in the San Fernando Valley at the time of his death. No official statement has been released regarding funeral arrangements or memorial plans. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office has confirmed that an investigation into the cause of death is underway, though no further details have been made public as of April 6, 2026.
Muldoon is survived by his mother, two sisters, and a wide circle of friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry. His legacy includes not only his on-screen performances but also his reputation among peers as a professional and generous collaborator. Fans have begun sharing clips and memories online using the hashtag #RememberingPatrick, celebrating his contributions to television history.
As the entertainment community processes this loss, attention turns to the lasting influence of the shows that defined his career. Both Days of Our Lives and Melrose Place remain influential in shaping modern soap opera and primetime drama storytelling, with Muldoon’s performances continuing to be cited by critics and historians as emblematic of the era’s leading male archetypes.
For updates on official statements or memorial information, readers are encouraged to refer to verified sources such as the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office (lacounty.gov) or reputable entertainment news outlets with established fact-checking practices. No further details have been confirmed at this time.
Patrick Muldoon’s death marks the end of a career that brought joy and drama to audiences worldwide. His operate on two of television’s most iconic series ensures that his presence will continue to be felt in reruns, streaming platforms, and the memories of those who grew up watching him.
We invite readers to share their favorite memories of Patrick Muldoon in the comments below and to honor his legacy by celebrating the stories he helped bring to life.