The cause of death for actor Patrick Muldoon, best known for his roles in popular 1990s television shows such as Saved by the Bell, Melrose Place, and Days of Our Lives, has been officially disclosed. According to his death certificate, issued by the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health and obtained by Us Weekly, Muldoon died from a myocardial infarction, commonly referred to as a heart attack.
The document further indicated that Muldoon suffered from a hereditary coagulopathy disorder and experienced a pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs or a vital artery, causing a blockage. Hereditary coagulopathy disorders are genetic conditions that impair the blood's ability to clot properly, potentially leading to excessive bleeding.
Muldoon passed away at the age of 57 on April 19 at his residence in Beverly Hills, as confirmed by his manager to Variety. His death certificate confirms that he was cremated on April 28. In the wake of his death, tributes from those close to him described the actor as endlessly generous, stylish, charismatic, and full of life. A friend remarked that the 1990s television heartthrob embraced each day with a full-tilt, rock 'n' roll spirit.
Early Career and Breakthrough Roles
Born in California, Muldoon began his acting career in the early 1990s. He made his television debut in 1992 with a two-episode appearance on the popular sitcom Who's the Boss? before landing a small role on Saved by the Bell as Jeff, alongside Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Mario Lopez, Dustin Diamond, and Tiffani-Amber Thiessen.
That same year, he secured one of the most significant roles of his career: Austin Reed on Days of Our Lives, the brother of Billie Reed, played by Lisa Rinna. He originally portrayed the boxer character for three years before reprising the role in 2011. Just last year, he teased a possible return to the soap opera in a video shared on Peacock's official Instagram page, where he was seen wandering backstage and saying, 'Oh my God, I'm in Salem! It's good to be back.'
Notable Television and Film Appearances
Following his initial stint on Days of Our Lives, Muldoon was cast as the villain Richard Hart on Melrose Place. He subsequently appeared in a variety of television films, including Chain of Command, Project Viper, Fatal Acquittal, and Patient Killer. On the big screen, he starred alongside his former girlfriend Denise Richards in Starship Troopers, and also appeared in films such as Stigmata, Saving Christmas, Marlowe, Spiders 3D, and The Comeback Trail. His final film credit was as Thomas Bennett in the 2024 movie Murder at Hollow Creek.
Work Behind the Camera and Final Projects
In addition to acting, Muldoon worked as a producer on several projects. His most recent production was Kockroach, starring Chris Hemsworth, Taron Egerton, Zazie Beetz, and Alec Baldwin. He shared his excitement about the project on Instagram just days before his death, posting: 'So excited to be a part of this amazing project KOCKROACH directed by Matt Ross starring Chris Hemsworth, Taron Edgerton, Zazie Beetz And Alec Baldwin. Filming now in Australia.'
Tributes from Fans and Colleagues
Fans have flooded social media with tributes following the news of his passing. One fan wrote: 'Grew up watching you in Starship Troopers. R.I.P legend.' Another commented: 'Omfg noooo I can't believe this is true. RIP Patrick.' A follower shared: 'You will be missed! Wishing all of Patrick's friends, family and devoted fans love, comfort and intentions of peace and ease.' An Instagram user added: 'Such a kind, talented soul. You will be missed,' while a grieving fan wrote: 'RIP Patrick, breaks my heart to see the news. The world has lost a remarkable man!'
Muldoon, affectionately known as 'Bobo' to loved ones, is survived by his partner, entertainment lawyer Miriam Rothbart, and his parents, Deanna and Patrick Muldoon Sr.
