Hollywood’s sweetheart Denise Richards is now center stage in one of the most shocking celebrity divorces of 2025.

Her estranged husband, Aaron Phypers, has filed to dissolve their marriage, sparking a legal war that could expose secrets, upend fortunes, and reshape reputations.

With abuse allegations and lavish lifestyle claims colliding, the courtroom drama is poised to grip the entertainment world.

The divorce already carries an explosive edge thanks to Richards’ shocking allegations against Phypers.

Court filings reveal that the actress secured a temporary restraining order, accusing him of a disturbing pattern of abuse.

According to Richards, Phypers punched her, tracked her phone, planted hidden cameras, and even threatened to kill her in front of her daughter.

A full hearing is scheduled for August 8, which will determine whether the restraining order becomes permanent.

“This is not your average Hollywood split,” attorney Amy Lass, founding partner of Lass Law, told The Blast. “With the abuse allegations and massive income disparity, the courts will be looking very closely at who gets what and who’s telling the truth.”

Lass added that if the court finds Richards’ claims credible, Phypers could lose any right to spousal support. “If Denise’s claims are substantiated, the court may strip Aaron of any claim to support. Domestic abuse is a game-changer in California family law.”

At the heart of the dispute is the issue of money. Phypers is demanding a significant portion of Richards’ reported $250,000 monthly income.

His filings even detail expenses, such as $25,465 each month for groceries and dining alone.

Despite portraying himself as financially strapped, he still wants Richards to bankroll his luxurious habits.

However, according to Lass, California law isn’t on his side. “California law allows for spousal support when one spouse cannot maintain the marital lifestyle. But it doesn’t reward bad behavior,” she explained. “If Aaron has been abusive or deceptive, the court could outright deny his request.”

Given Richards’ independent success from her OnlyFans earnings, reality television roles, and endorsements, Lass says she’s well equipped to defend her wealth.

In contrast, Phypers may find his claims dismissed if the abuse allegations hold weight.

The filings also highlight Phypers’ unusual demands to keep certain assets.

He wants sole ownership of his Shelby GT500 muscle car, an Indian motorcycle, and even a collection of power tools.

To most, these requests may sound trivial compared to multimillion-dollar estates, but in divorce court, every asset counts.

“Unless those items were clearly acquired before the marriage or outlined in a prenup, they’re community property,” Lass explained. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a car or a crescent wrench — it’s all on the table.”

Phypers has also attempted to claim control of their production company, but Lass stressed that without evidence of sole contribution or separate ownership, that claim will likely fail.

The court’s approach is straightforward; if it was built or accumulated during the marriage, it’s subject to division.

While Richards and Phypers share no biological children, the latter had been pursuing adoption of the former’s daughter, Eloise.

That process, however, now appears in jeopardy.

“An incomplete or unfinalized adoption doesn’t grant any rights,” said Lass. “And with a restraining order pending, the court isn’t going to favor granting access to minors.”

This means Phypers’ legal standing with Eloise may dissolve entirely, leaving Richards as the sole guardian and decision-maker.

For her, that could provide both relief and reassurance, ensuring her daughter’s safety remains paramount.

As for where the present situation leaves the couple as the August 8 court date approaches, Lass offered a blunt assessment.

She noted, “She has the income, the public sympathy, and a documented pattern of abuse claims. Unless Aaron can disprove everything, he’s walking away with little more than a toolbox and a bad reputation.”

For Richards, the legal landscape looks far less grim than the tabloid headlines might suggest.

Between her financial independence, her strong public image, and the serious weight of her allegations, the odds appear stacked in her favor.

Still, in Hollywood divorces, nothing is ever simple. Every filing, testimony, and court appearance will be scrutinized under a glaring spotlight.

Fans and critics alike will be watching to see whether Richards emerges triumphant or if Aaron Phypers manages to shift the narrative.