When the beloved soap‑opera actor Patrick Muldoon passed away on Sunday, April 19, 2026, the entertainment world felt a sharp pang of loss. The 57‑year‑old, who had been a familiar face on television for decades, died after suffering a fatal heart attack. In the days that followed, his former co‑star and longtime friend Lisa Rinna, now 62, took to social media to honor his memory and share a slice of their shared past.
Revisiting a Soap‑Opera Legacy
Patrick Muldoon first captured audiences’ hearts as the charismatic and mischievous character of Ben Weston on the long‑running daytime drama Days of Our Lives. His tenure on the show spanned the early 1990s, a period when the series was a staple of American households. Muldoon’s portrayal of Ben, a charming yet troubled figure, earned him a loyal fan base and a reputation as one of the era’s most memorable soap‑opera actors.
Lisa Rinna, who was also part of the show during that same period, played the role of Lily Raines. The two actors shared a dynamic on‑screen relationship, portraying siblings who navigated the complex family drama that is the hallmark of daytime television. Their characters’ bond was a key storyline that kept viewers engaged, and it also forged a real‑life friendship between the two performers.
A Heartfelt Instagram Tribute
In the wake of Muldoon’s death, Rinna posted a nostalgic throwback image on her Instagram Story on Monday, April 20. The photo, taken during the early 1990s, shows the pair sitting back‑to‑back in a promotional shoot for the show. Rinna is dressed in an off‑the‑shoulder top and high‑waisted black jeans, while Muldoon sports a blue tee, jean jacket, and light‑washed jeans. The candid snapshot captures the warmth and camaraderie that existed between them, even decades after their time together on set.
Accompanying the image, Rinna added a broken‑heart emoji, a simple yet powerful symbol of her grief. The gesture was a quiet acknowledgment of the loss of a friend and a reminder of the impact Muldoon had on those who worked alongside him. The post quickly garnered attention from fans and fellow actors alike, many of whom shared their own memories of the actor’s talent and kindness.
Beyond the Screen: A Brief Romance and a New Chapter
While Rinna and Muldoon’s professional relationship was the most prominent aspect of their time together, the two also shared a brief romantic fling during the filming of Days of Our Lives. The affair was short‑lived, but it added a layer of personal history to their shared story. After the fling ended, Rinna’s life took a new direction when she met and married Harry Hamlin, a celebrated actor best known for his roles in films such as Clash of the Titans and the television series Stargate SG‑1. The couple tied the knot in 1997 and have since built a family together.
Muldoon’s death, therefore, came at a time when Rinna’s personal and professional life had evolved significantly. Yet, her tribute underscores the enduring bonds formed in the entertainment industry and the way those connections can transcend time and career milestones.
Patrick Muldoon’s Career Beyond Soap Operas
Although Muldoon is best remembered for his role on Days of Our Lives, his career spanned a variety of television and film projects. He appeared in popular series such as Baywatch, Melrose
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