When news broke that Patrick Muldoon had passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the age of 57, fans immediately reflected on his long-running career; especially his role on “Days of Our Lives.” But as tributes poured in, another name started popping up alongside his: his sister, Shana Muldoon-Zappa.
It seems like not everyone realized the Muldoon talent runs in the family. And yep, you read that right… Shana carved out her own path in the entertainment industry, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes.
A Shared Passion for Acting
Shana Muldoon-Zappa didn’t just orbit Hollywood… she stepped into it. Like her brother, she took on acting roles, appearing in a couple of familiar titles from the late ‘90s and early 2000s.
According to IMDb, she appeared in two episodes of “Malibu Shores,” playing the character Julie. If that show rings a bell, it’s because it was part of that very specific era of 90s teen dramas that leaned into sun-soaked drama and messy relationships. Her appearance may have been brief, but it still places her firmly in that nostalgic TV lineup.
Shana also appeared in the 2006 film “Hollywood,” continuing to build her on-screen résumé. And she didn’t stop there. She later popped up in reality and entertainment programming, including appearances on “Denise Richards & Her Wild Things” and “Entertainment Tonight.”
Let’s be real; those kinds of credits show range. Scripted TV, film, and unscripted appearances? That’s a pretty well-rounded mix.
Building Something Bigger Behind the Scenes
While acting was part of her journey, Shana also leaned into creating; and that’s where things get especially interesting.
She co-created the book and animated series “Disney’s Star Darlings” alongside her husband, Ahmet Zappa. If you’re not familiar, the series focuses on a group of magical girls from a wish-granting universe, blending storytelling with music and animation.
It’s one of those projects that feels both creative and expansive: books, characters, and a whole built-out world. Not exactly a small undertaking.
And honestly? That pivot from acting into creating content for younger audiences says a lot about her versatility. It seems like she found a lane where she could shape stories instead of just stepping into them.
Shana Muldoon-Zappa: Creativity Worth Noting
Patrick Muldoon may have been the more widely recognized name thanks to his soap opera fame, but Shana Muldoon-Zappa’s career adds another layer to the family’s story in entertainment.
There’s something genuinely compelling about siblings who both pursue creative paths… especially when they take slightly different routes within the same industry. One builds a name through iconic TV roles, the other blends acting with producing and co-creating original content.
And while this moment is understandably centered on remembering Patrick, it also highlights the broader creative legacy tied to his family. Because sometimes, the story isn’t just about one career; it’s about the creative ripple effect that extends beyond it.
