The entertainment community gathered in Santa Monica on Saturday, May 16, to bid farewell to Patrick Muldoon, the former Melrose Place and Days of Our Lives star who passed away at age 57. The memorial service, held at St. Monica's Catholic Church, brought together friends, family members, and colleagues who had worked alongside the actor throughout his multifaceted career.
Among those in attendance was Rodney Peete, Muldoon's former teammate from their days playing football at the University of Southern California. Peete shared his grief on social media, writing, "Tough Day saying goodbye to my friend Pat Muldoon!!! He was my Teammate, My Brother, My Friend🙏🏾 miss you already brotha."
The connection to USC football represents an important chapter in Muldoon's life that predated his acting fame. Before becoming known for his television roles, Muldoon was a star football player who played tight end for the USC Trojans during the 1980s. This athletic background shaped his discipline and work ethic throughout his entertainment career.
Also present at the celebration of life service was Sami Sheen, the 22-year-old daughter of Denise Richards, Muldoon's former girlfriend. Sheen shared the memorial service handout on social media, writing, "Miss u so much Patrick." The gesture underscored the lasting impact Muldoon had on those who knew him, extending across generations and relationships.
The entertainment world was shocked when news broke on April 19 that Muldoon had died from a heart attack. A death certificate later revealed multiple underlying causes, including a pulmonary embolism and coagulopathy disorder, a genetic condition that impairs the blood's ability to form clots properly. These medical complications contributed to the sudden nature of his passing.
In a statement released to the media, Muldoon's family painted a portrait of a man whose impact extended far beyond his professional accomplishments. "With his poetry, his humor, and his unmistakable presence. [Patrick] loved animals and people alike, gave unforgettable hugs, and possessed a rare quality of making others feel safe and seen," the statement read. "Stylish, charismatic, and full of life, he embraced each day with a full-tilt, rock 'n' roll spirit."
The memorial service came nearly a month after an outpouring of tributes from friends and former colleagues. Lisa Rinna, his former Days of Our Lives castmate, Tori Spelling, another ex-girlfriend, and numerous soap opera stars shared their memories and condolences following the news of his death.
Denise Richards, who dated Muldoon in the late 1990s and worked with him on the 1997 science fiction film Starship Troopers, shared an emotional tribute on April 21. The two had maintained a close friendship spanning 36 years, having first met in an acting class when Richards was 19 and Muldoon was 21, already working on a recurring role on Who's the Boss while attending USC.
"You were my best friend & my family," Richards wrote in her Instagram tribute. "The friendship, love, support, respect & loyalty we had was unconditional and rare. You lit up every room you walked into. You are larger than life & Everyone was drawn to you. So talented & most underrated actor. And most humble."
Richards expressed the depth of her loss, writing that she would always remember Muldoon for "your laugh, your kindness, your wit, your strength, your loyalty, your passion, and your zest for life." She described him as her voice of reason and pillar of strength, particularly during the past year.
"We've been each other's rock. Our memories together are endless. You've had my back and protected me more than anyone. I don't know what I'm going to do without you here," Richards continued. "We thought we'd live forever or at least into our 90's. Schweetbabe I will be looking for those signs. I need to know you're still here with me. I love you so much & miss you dearly schweetbabe."
Muldoon is survived by his longtime girlfriend, Miriam Rothbart. The memorial service at St. Monica's Catholic Church provided an opportunity for those who knew and loved him to gather in remembrance, celebrating a life that touched many through both his professional achievements and personal relationships.
