Accusations of Affair and Divorce Sparks Between Denise Richards and Aaron Phypers

Actor Aaron Phypers has publicly claimed that his estranged wife, Denise Richards, engaged in a six-month affair with Rudy Reyes, an instructor on the reality competition show Special Forces: World’s Toughest Challenge. Phypers shared that he uncovered more than 100 explicit messages, photos, and videos between Richards and Reyes on her phone, which initially raised his suspicions due to a shift in her behavior.

Phypers claims Richards admitted to the affair but later denied it, despite the evidence he found. He alleges the relationship resumed in May after claimed promises to cease, and he discovered ongoing contact over the Fourth of July weekend. He described Reyes dismissively as a “w—-r,” saying the messages deeply hurt him.

During a heated confrontation, Richards allegedly stole and destroyed Phypers’ phone after discovering he had saved some of her conversations with Reyes, which were later published. The ongoing conflict led Phypers to file for divorce after nearly seven years of marriage, seeking spousal support. Richards responded by obtaining a temporary restraining order against Phypers, accusing him of physical abuse, which he denies.

Phypers also alleged Richards struggles with substance abuse, mixing Vicodin pills—potentially costing thousands—with alcohol, and staying awake all night. He contended she has a serious problem, buying large quantities of pills in bottles of 500, and expressed concern over her behavior and the impact on their family, especially as they have moved homes multiple times in less than a decade.

In response, Richards has maintained her innocence, with representatives for both parties not commenting further. Reyes, meanwhile, had previously spoken about the challenges of temptation and managing social media during the airing of Special Forces. He described himself as a family-oriented man and a veteran who values growth and connection.