Denise Richards Accuses Ex Aaron Phypers of Abuse, Gets Temporary Restraining Order Amid Divorce
In a shocking turn of events, actress Denise Richards has accused her estranged husband, Aaron Phypers, of physical and verbal abuse, leading to the granting of a temporary restraining order against him. The 45-year-old star, known for her roles in "Wild Things" and "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," filed the documents with the court just days after Phypers filed for divorce citing irreconcilable differences.
According to the court documents, Richards alleged that Phypers subjected her to a range of abusive behavior during their marriage, including violent choking, slamming her head into bathroom towel racks, and threatening to kill her. She also claimed that Phypers regularly threatened to "break her jaw" and would cry and beg her to stay in the relationship despite his promises to get help.
Richards also submitted gruesome photos of her alleged injuries, including one where her eye is badly bruised and swollen. She claimed that she has been repeatedly abused throughout their marriage and has suffered at least three concussions. The actress stated that she was afraid to report Phypers' abuse until now "because he has repeatedly threatened to kill himself and me if I reported him to the police."
Phypers, 52, vehemently denied the allegations, telling TMZ that the claims are "not true" and that Richards is "creating a story to save her image." He claimed to have all the details and said that he has evidence to back up his side of the story.
The Relationship: A Look Back
Richards and Phypers began dating in June 2017 and got married during a ceremony documented on Season 9 of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" in September 2018. The couple shares no children, but Phypers listed Richards' youngest daughter, Eloise, 14, as his stepdaughter. Eloise was adopted by Richards immediately after her birth in May 2011.
Richards has two older daughters, Sami and Lola, from her previous marriage to actor Charlie Sheen. The couple's divorce filing came weeks after Phypers' initial move to end the relationship.
A National Crisis: Domestic Abuse and Support
The allegations against Phypers come as a stark reminder of the prevalence of domestic abuse in our society. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four women experiences some form of domestic violence in her lifetime. The Independent is committed to shining a light on this critical issue and providing resources for those affected.
For immediate support, please contact the following national helplines:
- US: National Domestic Abuse Helpline - 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- UK: Refuge - 0808 2000 247
- US: US National Domestic Violence Hotline - 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- International: Befrienders Worldwide - www.befrienders.org
We urge anyone experiencing domestic abuse to reach out for help. Your voice matters, and you are not alone.