Actress Denise Richards was granted a temporary restraining order against her estranged husband, alleging Aaron Phypers emotionally and physically abused her throughout their relationship — accusations he vehemently denied.
“Let me be unequivocally clear. I have never physically or emotionally abused Denise — or anyone,” Phypers wrote in a statement to US Weekly. “These accusations are completely false and deeply hurtful. Denise and I, like many couples, have faced our share of challenges, but any suggestion of abuse is categorically untrue.
“I have always tried to approach our marriage with love, patience and respect. I ask for privacy as we navigate personal matters, and I hope that the public and media will refrain from spreading harmful and baseless claims.”
Phypers filed for divorce from his wife of seven years earlier this month. As part of that pending case, the 54-year-old Richards filed papers Wednesday seeking a restraining order, alleging abuse by her estranged husband including choking, slapping and threatening to kill her.
In her court papers, the actress and “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” personality said she never reported the alleged abuse previously because Phypers allegedly threatened to kill her and himself if she ever reported him to police.
Richards, known for her roles in films such as “Wild Things” and “Starship Troopers,” also contended that Phypers owns multiple unregistered firearms.
An Aug. 8 hearing was set to determine if the restraining order should be extended.
Phypers, 52, is a businessman and occasional actor. He was previously married to actress Nicollette Sheridan. Richards was previously married to actor Charlie Sheen, with whom she had two daughters.