Denise Richards is remembering Patrick Muldoon on what would have been his 58th birthday, sharing an emotional glimpse into the last time she saw her longtime friend and former boyfriend. Muldoon died suddenly on April 19, 2026, at 57, leaving behind friends, family, and colleagues who have continued to honor his memory.
According to Parade, Denise Richards and Patrick Muldoon’s bond stretched across decades, surviving the end of their romantic relationship and growing into a close friendship. In her latest tribute, Richards shared a photograph of the pair embracing on an airport tarmac and revealed that the image captured their final goodbye—something she could never have known at the time.
Denise Richards and Patrick Muldoon’s Friendship Ended With One Final Hug
Richards explained that she and Muldoon had just returned from Scotland, where they spent a weekend with fans and fellow Starship Troopers cast members. She remembered laughing with him while they waited for their luggage and talking about how much fun they had experienced during the trip. They even discussed plans to see each other again before eventually hugging and going their separate ways.
Looking back, Richards admitted that posting the memory on his birthday was difficult. She also remembered how excited Muldoon became when a fancy car arrived to collect him from the airport, describing him as someone who remained humble despite his career. The ordinary details of that final day now carry much greater meaning because neither of them realized they were saying goodbye for the last time.
Their Connection Lasted Long After Their Romance Ended
Richards and Muldoon met while studying acting and dated on and off in the 1990s, later appearing together in Starship Troopers. Although their romance ended, they remained close, and Muldoon became part of Richards’ family life. Her daughter Eloise also grew fond of him, especially after spending time together at LA Comic Con.
The Denise Richards and Patrick Muldoon story therefore became much more than a former Hollywood romance. Their friendship lasted through different stages of life, career changes, and new relationships, remaining strong until his sudden death. Richards’ birthday message captures the painful reality of loss: sometimes a casual hug, a conversation about future plans, and an ordinary goodbye become memories you would give anything to experience one more time.