Actress and reality star Denise Richards shares her experiences of sexual harassment, her fears, and the empowerment she finds in her daughters and the #MeToo movement.
- February 23, 2025
AceShowbiz - Denise Richards recounted her harrowing experiences of sexual harassment within the entertainment industry. Reflecting on her early career, she recalled being pressured to stay silent. "I was told I would be blacklisted," the actress shared, emphasizing the vulnerability she felt as a young and unknown talent.
Richards revealed how the fear of losing her dream career was overwhelming, leading her to keep quiet despite the trauma. "This was the career I wanted to do. To be told that you're never going to work in an industry that you are passionate about, it's a hard thing," she explained.
With over three decades in Hollywood, Richards has witnessed significant changes, particularly following the #MeToo movement. She was relieved and happy for the current climate where women "are able to have more of a voice and be more protected." She acknowledged that, had these protections been in place during her early career, she might have reacted differently.
Richards drew strength and inspiration from her three daughters, Sami, 20, Lola, 19, and Eloise, 13. She admired their confidence and ability to speak up, reflecting, "If I had that, I think I would've been able to handle it a little differently." This generation's assertiveness contrasted sharply with Richards' own experience as a self-professed "people pleaser."
Through her daughters, Richards found a new perspective on empowerment. She was proud of their unfiltered expressions, even if it sometimes made her uncomfortable and wanted them to "tone it down." Yet, she admited, "for the most part, I'm glad that they're able to say what's on their mind. I wish I was able to back then."
Richards also shared her traumatic encounters as a teenager, including a sexual assault at 15 and a recent road rage incident where shots were fired at her truck. These experiences underpinned her desire to teach her daughters to be resilient and fearless. "I want them to be able to never go through that. And also, if something, God forbid, [happens], to be strong enough," she states.
Richards credited her late mother, Joni, for instilling a survivor's spirit in her, recalling her mom's mantra, "This too shall pass." On her 54th birthday, Richards reflected on her journey, "I've realized that I'm stronger than I thought I was."
"Denise Richards and Her Wild Things," a new reality TV series, will premiere on Bravo, featuring Richards alongside her family, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into her personal and professional life.