Denise Richards has long been one of Hollywood’s most recognisable and talked-about stars. From her breakout roles in Wild Things and The World Is Not Enough to her appearance on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Denise has captivated audiences with both her on-screen talent and off-screen charisma. But just as much as fans follow her career, they have been equally intrigued by her love life.
Over the years, the actress and former model has been linked to a number of big names in Hollywood. While some romances were confirmed, others remain rumoured, and many are marked by drama and unexpected reunions. Whether it was her whirlwind marriage to Charlie Sheen or a brief encounter with a rockstar, Denise Richards’ relationship timeline has time and again raised eyebrows. Here’s a complete look at her relationship history.
Denise Richards’ early romance with John Stamos was rekindled later
Denise Richards’ first known Hollywood romance was with Full House heartthrob, John Stamos. The pair first dated in 1988 when Denise was just 19. Though it didn’t go far the first time, they rekindled their connection briefly in 2006. Denise confirmed on The Howard Stern Show that they shared a deep bond but ultimately didn’t pursue things further due to family differences, particularly John’s’ reluctance to date a woman with children. Despite things not working out romantically, the two remained on friendly terms, with Denise also appearing on John’s short-lived show, Losing It with John Stamos.
Denise Richards’ quiet connection with Paul Walker
One of the lesser-known but most intriguing relationships of Denise’s was her rumoured fling with the late actor Paul Walker. The pair starred together in the 1994 film Tammy and the T-Rex, and rumours of a brief relationship surfaced following their steamy on-screen chemistry.
Though neither Denise nor Paul ever confirmed the relationship publicly, she paid tribute to him after his tragic death in 2013, describing him as a ‘kind, beautiful soul.’ Their alleged romance may have been short-lived, but it clearly left a lasting impression on Denise.
Denise Richards’ relationship with Patrick Muldoon
Richards’ on-again, off-again romance with Days of Our Lives actor, Patrick Muldoon began in 1998. After splitting shortly after, the pair reconnected in 2012, sparking fresh interest, especially since Patrick had also dated The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills castmate, Lisa Rinna.
Their complex past was brought to light during Denise’s show, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, where their mutual connections made for entertaining and awkward drama. Still, Denise spoke fondly of Patrick and even called him ‘Schweet Babe’, a nickname from their Starship Troopers days.
Denise Richard’s short-lived fling with Scott Baio that turned into a public feud
Denise Richards was linked to Charles in Charge star, Scott Baio in the late ’80s or early ’90s, though this relationship turned controversial when Scott discussed their alleged sex life on The Howard Stern Show in 2007. Denise clapped back hard, denying they were ever serious and making it clear that they never even slept together. She said that Scott’s claims were pure fabrication and even added that she wouldn’t hide it if something had happened.
Denise Richard and her marriage to Charlie Sheen
Denise Richards’ most infamous relationship was with actor, Charlie Sheen. The two started dating in 2001, got married in 2002, and had two daughters together, Sami and Lola. But after a rocky few years filled with personal and public drama, Denise filed for divorce in 2005 while she was pregnant with their second child.
Their divorce was finalised in 2006 after a nasty custody battle. Despite their turbulent past, Denise later took in Charlie’s twin sons with Brooke Mueller under her custody during one of Brooke’s rehab stints. Years later, now the two exes are committed to co-parenting their kids and have been on good terms and were recently spotted together on a red carpet event.
Denise Richards’ romance with Richie Sambora
In 2006, Denise sparked controversy when she began dating Bon Jovi guitarist, Richie Sambora, who had just separated from her close friend, Heather Locklear. The scandal rocked Hollywood and allegedly ended the friendship between Denise and Heather. Despite the public scrutiny, the pair stayed together for about a year before splitting amicably. They reportedly reconciled in 2011, only to part ways again in 2012 after a major argument that couldn’t be resolved this time around.
Denise Richards was rumoured to be dating Bradley Cooper
In 2009, Denise was briefly linked to A Star Is Born actor, Bradley Cooper after they were spotted dining together. The rumours were short-lived, and both Denise and Bradley flatly denied any romance among them. Richards even joked that she was ‘flattered’ by the speculation.
Denise Richards’ relationship with Nikki Sixx
Denise Richards briefly dated Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx in late 2010. She confirmed the relationship on Watch What Happens Live, noting they were taking things slow. But by January 2011, the relationship was over, with insiders confirming it was never exclusive or serious. Nikki later described it as a ‘short, short time,’ and both moved on without much fanfare.
Denise Richards’ marriage to Aaron Phypers: The fairytale marriage that turned into a nightmare
Denise’s most recent and perhaps most heartbreaking relationship was with Aaron Phypers. The two met in 2017 and quickly fell in love. They married in September 2018 after a whirlwind romance, and Aaron began the process of adopting Denise’s daughter, Eloise. However, the fairytale ended in July 2025 when Aaron filed for divorce.
What followed was a bitter and public legal battle filled with allegations of abuse, infidelity, and unfiled adoption papers. Denise addressed the emotional toll in an Instagram video, while Aaron claimed that Denise had never filed adoption paperwork for Eloise, leaving him legally disconnected from the daughter he had raised.
From passionate affairs to painful divorces and intense legal battles, Denise has lived a love life filled with as much drama as any Hollywood film. Through it all, she has remained committed to her children and her personal growth.
Also Read: Inside Charlie Sheen’s Love Life, 4 Yrs Marriage With Denise Richards To Most High-Profile Romances