In a shocking turn of events, Denise Richards, the “Wild Things” star and former “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” cast member, has been granted a restraining order against her estranged husband, Aaron Phypers, following allegations of severe physical and emotional abuse. Court documents filed on Wednesday reveal a disturbing pattern of violent behavior, including claims that Phypers threatened to kill both Richards and himself if she ever reported him to authorities.
The 54-year-old actress detailed a series of harrowing incidents in the legal filings, obtained by Page Six, accusing Phypers, 52, of repeated physical assaults throughout their relationship. According to Richards, Phypers allegedly choked her, squeezed her head and arms with excessive force, slapped her face and head, and slammed her head into a bathroom towel rack. One particularly alarming incident in 2022 reportedly occurred at Phypers’ Malibu workplace, where Richards claims he became “paranoid” over suspicions that plants he purchased contained listening devices. In a fit of rage, he allegedly called her a “f–king bitch” and struck her in the eye with the palm of his hand, leaving a visible bruise.
Another disturbing episode described in the documents took place when Richards suggested Phypers not join her on a work trip. She alleges he grabbed her by the hair, slammed her to the ground, and screamed, “You are not cancelling my flight, I am going with you and I do not trust you.” Richards included photos of her bruised face as evidence, attributing the injuries to her estranged husband’s actions.
Phypers has vehemently denied the allegations, telling Us Weekly they are “not true” and “conjured up,” insisting he possesses “the real evidence.” Despite his claims, a court has ordered him to maintain a 100-yard distance from Richards, her home, and her vehicle. The couple’s next hearing regarding the restraining order is set for August 8.
The explosive allegations come on the heels of Phypers filing for divorce less than two weeks ago, citing “irreconcilable differences” and listing their separation date as July 4. The filing, which followed six years of marriage, also included a request for spousal support. Sources close to the couple told the Daily Mail that their relationship had been “toxic” for some time, marked by constant fighting. One insider revealed that a heated argument over the July 4 weekend culminated in Phypers storming off to file for divorce, with both parties reportedly declaring, “F–k you,” to each other.
Days after the divorce filing, Phypers was spotted running errands without his wedding ring, signaling the end of their tumultuous union. The couple, who tied the knot in a romantic Malibu ceremony in September 2018, had faced ongoing challenges, with sources describing their dynamic as increasingly volatile.
Richards, a mother of three, has yet to publicly comment on the divorce or the restraining order beyond the court filings. As the legal battle unfolds, the public awaits further developments in this high-profile split, which has already sent shockwaves through Hollywood.