Losing a friend of more than four decades leaves a space that words often struggle to fill. For “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star Denise Richards, that loss has made even the most meaningful moments feel bittersweet as she reflects on her final film with longtime friend Patrick Muldoon.
Muldoon died unexpectedly on Sunday, April 19, at age 57 after a heart attack, as reported by Deadline. The news became public the next day, as friends, co-stars, and loved ones paid tribute by sharing heartfelt memories and photos.
GettyWhile promoting the recently released thriller “Dirty Hands,” Richards shared that returning to the project has been especially difficult following the sudden passing of his co-star, who was 57.
“I can’t watch the final cut yet,” she said in a conversation with “Dancing With The Stars” judge Derek Hough for Extra. “I’ve seen scenes along the way as it was being put together.”
A Friendship That Spanned Decades
Richards spoke with warmth about the bond she shared with Patrick Muldoon, describing a connection that extended far beyond their work on screen.
“Our friendship had gone on for, you know, almost 40 years,” she said.
The two first appeared together in the 1997 film “Starship Troopers” and went on to collaborate on several projects, building a partnership grounded in trust and mutual respect.
“We have always loved being on set together, and there’s such a respect. There’s a safety with us with feeling being able to feel vulnerable and certain scenes and no judgment,” she shared with Hough.
Honoring His Work Through ‘Dirty Hands’
Richards then told Hough that despite the emotional weight of the moment, she remains committed to honoring the film, a project she knows meant a great deal to Patrick Muldoon.
“It’s … very difficult to do press for [the movie] because of the shocking situation. However, I know he would want me to, because he wants us to still honor a project … he was so passionate about this movie.”
She also praised his performance, noting its impact on her.
“To me, this was his best performance,” she said, referring to him as “Pat.”
Released digitally on April 24, “Dirty Hands” follows two brothers navigating danger after a deal goes wrong, with Richards appearing in a central role.
Richards’ Family Grieves as They Hold Onto Memories
Richards said the grief has touched every part of her life, including her daughters, who shared a close bond with Patrick Muldoon.
“My daughters were so close to Pat, so they can’t watch it right now,” she said. “One day we will. We will come back to this, but I’m grateful I have this memory with he and I.”
She also honored him with a deeply personal tribute, reflecting on a friendship that spanned decades.
“This is so hard for me to put into words. I am deeply heartbroken & devastated losing you,” she wrote on Instagram. “You were my best friend & my family.”
She added, “The friendship, love, support, respect & loyalty we had was unconditional and rare.”
As she moves forward, Richards continues to honor his legacy with gratitude, holding close the memories that defined their time together.
