Trigger Warning: This article contains a discussion of domestic violence allegations.
Denise Richards had quite a painful 2025. But she is hoping for a better 2026. The actress and reality TV star took to social media to share that while there were some hard times in the past year, there were also a lot of good times. She’s trying to remain positive about what comes next.
The Denise Richards & Her Wild Things star and estranged husband Aaron Phypers made headlines last year for their tumultuous split and contentious divorce. The couple first filed in July 2025, citing irreconcilable differences. But things quickly went downhill from there.
Denise is locked in a divorce battle with ex Aaron Phypers
Lawsuits, restraining orders, spousal support requests, and an eviction followed. Denise allegedly cheated. Aaron was physically abusive throughout their relationship. It just got worse and worse. Both parties denied the allegations against them. In November, Denise was granted a permanent restraining order against Aaron.
It’s been tough, but she’s now looking to the future. Denise shared a post on Instagram on January 1st and shared a candid caption about the previous year.
“Looking back at all the photos and videos I have of 2025, it feels like I’m looking at two different people and lived two different lives,” the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills alum wrote. “Seeing a lot of your posts, many of you feel the same way. I will never forget this year, one of the most painful years I’ve lived.” She noted that it was the year of the snake and likened it to her “shedding” a lot and letting go.
“As painful as it is, I’m so grateful for the clarity,” she added. “I shed a lot of tears and felt pain and betrayal I never knew existed.” Denise thanked her friends, family, and support system who helped her face and work through everything.
She also mentioned being thankful for work and going to Comic Cons and BravoCon, calling the experiences “so humbling for me.” Denise admitted that despite the pain, she did have happy moments in 2025, especially in the last couple of months.
“I’m starting to feel like me again, only better,” Denise shared. “I’m looking forward to the Year of the Horse. I feel very lucky that it starts on my birthday. Happy New Year to all of you, and Happy New Year to those of you that really went through it in 2025. Happy 2026!”
TELL US – DO YOU THINK THERE’S NOWHERE TO GO BUT UP FOR DENISE? WHAT ARE YOU HOPING FOR HER IN 2026?
