Denise Richards speaks publicly about the strain of her divorce

Denise Richards has spoken publicly for the first time about the strain of her divorce from Aaron Phypers, describing the split as a “very, very, very difficult time” and acknowledging that she has been masking trouble online. In an emotional video posted to social media, the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum said she had been posting as if nothing were amiss but felt she could no longer maintain that stance. The remarks come as a divorce filed in July continues to unfold in a highly contentious, high-stakes battle over money, home life and parental status.

The couple’s breakup timeline underscores the fragility of a marriage that began in 2018. Phypers filed for divorce in July, listing irreconcilable differences and noting their separation date as July 4. Richards, meanwhile, has faced a series of court actions that have drawn public attention: a temporary restraining order Richards obtained against Phypers on abuse allegations, and an array of disputes over property and custody arrangements. In the video, Richards thanked supporters for their encouragement and said that “there are circumstances around my divorce that are difficult to talk about,” adding that she hoped to...