PHOTOSDenise Richards 'Devastated' by Ex Patrick Muldoon's Sudden Passing: 'She Can't Stop Crying'
Denise Richards and Patrick Muldoon began dating after they met on the set of the 1997 film 'Starship Troopers.'
April 21 2026, Published 7:01 a.m. ET
Denise Richards faces an emotional upheaval following the sudden death of her ex-boyfriend Patrick Muldoon. The actor, known for his role in Days of Our Lives, died unexpectedly on Sunday from a heart attack at the age of 57.
Sources claim that Richards is heartbroken.
"She's devastated. Really, really sad," a source dished. "I'd even call her inconsolable. She can't stop crying."
Richards, now 55, dated Muldoon for nearly five years during the late '90s and has known him since her teenage years.
Denise Richards and Patrick Muldoon Remained Close After Their Split
The two maintained a close friendship even after their romantic relationship ended.
"Patrick is the ex that she had the best relationship with," the insider noted. "There was a ton of respect on both sides."
This amicable bond allowed them to remain in constant contact, with each serving as a significant supporter for the other.
How Denise Richards and Patrick Muldoon Met
- Inside Patrick Muldoon's Dating History: Denise Richards, Miriam Rothbart and More
- Patrick Muldoon's Tragic Final Minutes: Actor Enjoyed 'Coffee With His Girlfriend' Before Suffering Fatal Heart Attack in Bathroom, Sister Reveals
- Patrick Muldoon of 'Melrose Place' Passes Away at 57: Official Cause of Death Revealed
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Richards first met Muldoon at 19 years old in an acting class. Their connection blossomed into a relationship that lasted years, even as they navigated their separate paths in Hollywood. Despite their romantic ties ending, Muldoon continued to share a close relationship with Richards' daughters, Lola Sheen and Sami Sheen.
During a recent podcast appearance on Tori Spelling's "MisSPELLING," Patrick spoke fondly of his relationship with Richards and her family.
"I have a good relationship with both Lola and Sami. I've known them since they were first born," he said, demonstrating the lasting bond between the families.
Lola Sheen Reacted to Patrick Muldoon's Death
In the wake of Patrick's death, Lola took to Instagram to express her grief. She shared that she once "begged" her mother to reunite with him, believing he was meant to be a permanent part of their lives.
"I thought you were the one that was supposed to be in our lives forever," she wrote in her emotional tribute.
Lola also reminisced about the joy Patrick brought to their lives.
"Your voice always brightened my day and I'm gonna miss hearing it but I know my mom will more," she shared.
The heartfelt message emphasized the unique bond that existed between Patrick and Denise.
