Denise Richards wants to return to the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills as she reveals why she originally quit the series

Denise Richards is keen to return to The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

The actress, 55, was a full time cast member on the show for seasons 9 and 10, before quitting after an alleged secret tryst she'd had with Brandi Glanville became a storyline on the show. 

Now Richards says she'd like to return to the show, while also blaming her ex Aaron Phypers for influencing her decision to leave the first time around.

During an appearance on The Jenny McCarthy Wahlberg Show, Richards was asked by McCarthy, 'If they ever asked you to come back, would you?'

The Wild Things star responded, 'Yeah! Actually, I did some episodes last season. But yeah, I would.'

Richards previously appeared as a guest star during seasons 13 and 15.

Despite wanting to return, Richards admitted that her initial run on the Bravo show was difficult.

'It was a hard thing. I felt like no one liked me, except for Garcelle [Beauvais]. And that's part of why I didn't come back for a third [season],' she explained.

Richards then claimed that Phypers was also 'a big part of me not going back'.

'But I think he was more worried about himself,' she clarified, before adding, 'He was probably worried that something would come out.' 

Richards and Phypers have been embroiled in a highly contentious divorce and legal battle since their separation in July 2024, involving financial and property disputes and allegations of domestic violence from both sides.

The actress was granted a five-year restraining order requiring him to stay 100 yards away from her. 

However, Richards was ordered to pay Phypers' attorney fees in addition to temporary spousal support back in February.

She must cough up $25,000 in attorney fees towards Phypers' divorce proceedings and an additional $5,000 to a forensic accountant, per People.

She was told that she must adhere to a structured payment plan of $10,000 per month for March, April and May 2026. 

Richards was also ordered to pay Phypers temporary spousal support of $5,000 a month 'commencing March 5, 2026, and continuing in a like manner until further order of the court.' 

Meanwhile, season 16 of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills is currently filming.

The upcoming season has added actress Leah Remini and reality star Tracy Tutor to the cast.

They will join Kyle Richards, Erika Jayne, Dorit Kemsley, Sutton Stracke, Bozoma Saint John and stylist Rachel Zoe.

Kathy Hilton and Jennifer Tilly are returning in supporting roles.

Money manifestation coach Amanda Frances, who joined last year, was let go from the show and will not be returning.