Denise Richards pays emotional tribute to late co-star Patrick Muldoon

Hollywood is in mourning as Denise Richards has paid a heartbreaking tribute to her “best friend” Patrick Muldoon after his sudden death aged 57.

The 55-year-old actress took to Instagram just days after his passing, laying bare her grief in an emotional message that has left fans in tears. 

Denise revealed the pair shared a bond spanning more than three decades, describing Patrick as her “family” and “voice of reason”.

Recalling their first meeting, she wrote: “I was 19 with no acting job, and you were 21… and here we are, 36 years later. My whole adult life and I don’t know it without you.”

The duo’s friendship blossomed after meeting in acting class, eventually leading to romance and a long-lasting connection that endured even after their split. 

They famously starred together in the sci-fi hit Starship Troopers, cementing their on-screen chemistry as well as their off-screen bond.

In her tribute, Wild Things star painted a vivid picture of Patrick’s larger-than-life personality, calling him “so talented, humble and completely unforgettable”. 

She added: “You lit up every room… your laugh, your kindness, your strength — everything about you was infectious.”

The Starship Troopers actress also opened up about leaning on Patrick during her toughest moments, admitting: “We’ve been each other’s rock… and now I need you more than ever.”

Patrick’s death, reportedly following a heart attack, has shocked fans and colleagues alike. 

Known for his roles in Days of Our Lives and Melrose Place, he was widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most underrated stars.

The pair were set to reunite on screen once more in upcoming thriller Dirty Hands, making the loss all the more poignant.

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