Denise Richards has paid tribute to her late friend and former partner, Patrick Muldoon, on what would have been his 58th birthday. Richards, 55, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message reflecting on their deep friendship that spanned over two decades, as well as the memories from their last weekend together in Scotland prior to his untimely passing in April.
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The actress shared a touching photograph that captured their final embrace on an airport runway after a trip to Scotland. In her caption, she expressed the profound sense of loss she feels, wishing she had hugged him “tighter and longer” during their farewell. “We had just gotten off our flight from Scotland. A whirlwind weekend with our Starship Troopers family,” she reminisced, highlighting the joy of that reunion.
Richards recounted how thrilled Muldoon was on their return to Los Angeles, particularly noting his excitement when a private service picked them up directly from the tarmac at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Reflecting on their time waiting in the lounge for their luggage, she remembered the laughter they shared, remarking, “I haven’t laughed that hard in a long time.” Their final moments together included plans for future meet-ups, a hug, and the bittersweet realisation that it would be their last goodbye.
Patrick Muldoon, who died suddenly on April 19, was confirmed by his manager to have suffered a heart attack at the age of 57. The news sent shockwaves through the entertainment community and hit Richards particularly hard. The two stars first met when she was just 19, and their initial romance evolved into a lasting friendship, especially after they co-starred in the 1997 cult classic Starship Troopers.
On the occasion of his birthday, Richards conveyed a sense of connection with Muldoon, sharing that she feels his presence around her and receiving signs that she interprets as his way of reaching out. “I feel you and see all your signs… Now do you get it?” she playfully quoted him, giving the impression of his enduring spirit influencing her life.
Richards also reflected on a sweet memory shared with her youngest daughter, Eloise, during last year’s Los Angeles Comic Con, where Muldoon made a significant impression on the child. “You had her giggling all day,” she remarked, emphasising the delight her daughter derived from their time together. The bond seemed to have left a lasting impact on Eloise, who still remembers Muldoon fondly.
In her heartfelt tribute, Richards noted how her daughter lit up upon hearing of Muldoon’s birthday, recalling joyful memories of him that brought laughter back. “Wow… never did I think that would be your last birthday here that I would see you,” she continued, expressing the weight of grief intertwined with cherished memories.
The poignant message concluded with gratitude for their final weekend in Scotland, which she remarked will always hold a special place in her heart. “I am so beyond grateful that we had that weekend in Scotland with everyone and the time we got to spend talking for hours about life… what a blessing and gift you gave me,” Richards expressed. She concluded with an affectionate, “Schweetbabe, Happy Birthday,” acknowledging their special bond and the enduring void left by his absence.
Just days after Muldoon’s death, Richards and he reunited professionally in the crime thriller Dirty Hands, which was released digitally on April 24. The film, being an important part of their professional journey together, further connected the two, even after Muldoon’s passing. The legacy of their friendship remains alive, not only through shared memories but also through the work they accomplished together.