No Salem Comeback! Patrick Muldoon Shuts Down Return Rumors

On Jun 19, 2025

Days of Our Lives fans were reeling recently when actor Patrick Muldoon, who originated the Austin Reed character, popped on the soap’s Instagram handle in a video that seemed to hint he was returning to storylines. Still, there is far more to this story than meets the eye.

Days Representative Clears The Story Up

As it turns out, Muldoon had returned to the soap, but only to the studio to give a tour to a friend. According to Soap Opera Digest (SOD) the soap clarified that the actor would not be making an onscreen comeback. Apparently, the IG video was some ‘tongue and cheek’ humor.

In the video, Muldoon can be seen walking through a brown door that has the words “Studio 4” on it. As he mutters ‘studio four’ in the clip, he checks the sign, snaps his fingers, and then says, “It’s gotta be … Is it studio two?”

Muldoon proceeds to look at the camera and states, “I just got off the 101 South in Burbank and studio two and four…”

Muldoon seemingly has a lightbulb moment when he exclaims, “Oh! Oh my God, I’m in Salem!” The video ends with the actor smiling as he walks off saying, “Oh, it’s good to be back.” The caption on the IG post read “Who is that wandering around Salem…and why?! #DOOL #days #daysofourlives”

Muldoon’s History On Days

Muldoon debuted as Austin in 1992 and would leave the show in 1995. He also returned for a short stint from 2011 to 2012.

The show recast the character, and Austin Peck entered the part in 1995, playing Austin Reed until 2006 and again in 2017-2021.

Unfortunately, it’s been over a decade since Muldoon played Austin Reed, the son of Kate Roberts Brady (Lauren Koslow), and about four years since the character has been in Salem.

In fact, Carrie Brady (Christie Clark) recently returned to be by John Black’s (Drake Hogestyn) side during his final days in the little town and for his memorial. Austin stayed back due to their son, Noah Reed’s, graduation.

Are you sad Patrick Muldoon is not returning to the show?? Join the conversation below! Watch your favorite soap on Peacock daily and check out this regularly for the hottest Days of Our Lives news and spoilers.