While Patrick Muldoon’s sudden death has shaken the industry and left those close to him grieving, it has been especially difficult for those who worked with him on his final film. Among them is his ex-partner and closest friend, Denise Richards, who shared a deeply personal tribute while opening up about her experience of working with him one last time.
GettyRichards first met Muldoon when she was 19, and he was 21, and the two quickly formed a close connection that would shape the years of their lives. The “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star dated Muldoon from 1998 to 2000, according to Us Weekly.
Although their romantic relationship ended, their bond only deepened over time, evolving into a lasting, family-like connection that remained central to both of their lives.
Richards Shares Emotional Tribute About Patrick Muldoon’s Final Film ‘Dirty Hands’
In a wholesome Instagram statement, Richards looked back on their final collaboration, sharing how much the project meant to him and those closest to him.
“Pat & I were supposed to do press this week for DirtyHands. He was so passionate about this movie & worked so hard on it. He was personally close to many involved..”
She also spoke about the full-circle nature of their work together, having shared both early and final moments of their careers.
“We did our first movie together & I am so blessed & grateful I did his last movie with him.”
Still processing the loss, Richards acknowledged the shock and heartbreak she continues to feel, while choosing to honor his memory by sharing a piece of his work.
“While I’m still in shock and devastated, I wanted to share this clip. I know he would want everyone to see the movie.”
She went on to highlight the close-knit group behind the film, emphasizing how personal the project was to Muldoon.
“His dear friend Kevin wrote & directed & acted in it & his dear friend Guy produced & acted in it. He was so proud of this movie 🙏💔✨”
Richards’ tribute was met with an outpouring of love from those closest to her, including her daughter, Lola, who wrote, “Ugh, I love you, Mom. I’m so so sorry. He’s cheering you on from heaven ❤️.” Fellow “Baywatch” alum Carmen Electra also shared her condolences, commenting, “I’m so sorry.”
Richards Called Muldoon Her ‘Best Friend’ in Emotional Tribute
Two days earlier, Richards had spoken publicly for the first time following Muldoon’s death, sharing a heartfelt tribute on social media.
“You were my best friend & my family. We met in our first acting class, I was 19 never had an acting job and you were 21 a student at USC doing a recurring role on who’s the boss,” she wrote.
“And here we are. 36 years later. My whole adult life & I don’t know it without you.”
The two dated for several years in the 1990s and remained close long after their relationship ended. They also shared the screen in the 1997 film “Starship Troopers.”
Looking back on their bond, Richards described it as rare and deeply meaningful.
“The friendship, love, support, respect & loyalty we had was unconditional and rare.”
A Lasting Bond Built on Friendship and Loyalty
In her earlier tribute, Richards remembered Muldoon as someone who brought light and energy into every space.
“You lit up every room you walked into. You are larger than life & Everyone was drawn to you,” she shared. “So talented & most underrated actor. And most humble. Everything you did was infectious. Your laugh, your kindness, your wit, your strength, your loyalty, your passion, and your zest for life. We’ve been each other’s rock.”
She also described him as a steady presence in her life.
“Especially during this last year of pain & heartache. And now I need you more than ever, for this pain and heartache of losing you,” she wrote.
Richards’ tribute drew an outpouring of support from friends, fans, and family members.
Among those responding were her daughters, who shared messages of love and remembrance.
“such a beautiful video & message. love you so much,” one wrote, while another added, “This is so beautiful mom, I am so so sorry. I love you so much, you guys are endgame forever.”
Muldoon’s impact also extended to those closest to Richards, with her family recalling the joy he brought into their lives.
