Denise Richards is reportedly "broken" and "inconsolable" following the sudden death of actor Patrick Muldoon, who passed away at age 57. The pair, who dated for nearly five years in the late 1990s and remained close friends, shared a history dating back to their early twenties. Richards, who called Muldoon the "love of her life" and expressed that she "don't know life without you," has been observed in a state of deep mourning, with friends indicating she is struggling to cope.
The circumstances surrounding Muldoon's death remain starkly presented as sudden, prompting a significant outpouring of grief from Richards, who stated she is "deeply heartbroken." Muldoon, known for his roles in 'Days of Our Lives' and 'Melrose Place,' died on April 19th. His passing has plunged Richards into a "s* storm" of personal crises, according to sources close to the actress, though the specifics of these additional troubles are being kept private.
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Richards marked Muldoon's death with a heartfelt public tribute on Instagram, sharing a message that spoke of his vibrant presence: "You lit up every room you walked into. You are larger than life & everyone was drawn to you." She described him as her "best friend" and "like a brother," highlighting the enduring depth of their connection, even decades after their romantic relationship concluded.
Friends note Richards' tendency to maintain a composed exterior despite her distress, suggesting she "tries to keep her head up, and she tries to keep a smile on her face." Despite the personal heartbreak, Richards and Muldoon had a recent professional collaboration, with a new movie titled 'Dirty Hands' scheduled for release on April 24th, a mere five days after his passing. This shared project underscores the ongoing professional and personal ties between them.
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The long-standing connection between Richards and Muldoon began when Richards was 19 and Muldoon was 21. Their relationship, which lasted for nearly half a decade, has been described as one where they were each other's "biggest supporter." Even after their split, they reportedly maintained a positive relationship. Notably, Lola Sheen, Richards' daughter, also held affection for Muldoon, suggesting his influence extended to her immediate family.