The Hollywood celebrity adopted her youngest daughter while she was a single mother. She noticed early on that the child was not developing as expected.
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The actress learned that one of her daughters had a chromosomal disorder. As a mother of three, she has spoken publicly about the experiences and challenges of parenthood.
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Her personal life has evolved alongside her role as a mother. The actress was previously married to actor Charlie Sheen, with whom she tied the knot in 2002. Their marriage ended in 2006, but during their time together, they welcomed two daughters.
Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards at the premiere of “Undercover Brother,” 2002 | Source: Getty Images
Now married to actor Aaron Phypers, whom she described as “the love of my life” after their wedding in 2018, she has embraced another chapter in her life as an adoptive mother to her youngest daughter.
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Parenting has always been a priority for the mother of three, and she has been open about the values that shape her approach. “I think that my daughters will tell you that Im a strict parent,” the star said in a 2019 interview.
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She previously revealed that she had installed security cameras to prevent her oldest child from sneaking out to meet boys, “I definitely have rules and boundaries and theres consequences.” According to the doting mom, she doesnt allow her daughters to “do whatever they want.”
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The Illinois natives approach to parenting is deeply influenced by the lessons she learned from her own upbringing. She follows the values her parents instilled, emphasizing their belief in equality and lack of judgment.
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This perspective is something she hopes to pass on to her daughters. Acknowledging that they may not always make choices she agrees with, she remains committed to reinforcing the principles of fairness and understanding in her household.
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The “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” stars eldest daughter, Sami Sheen, was born in March 2004. In September 2021, the Californian claimed in TikTok posts that she had moved out of her mothers home and in with her father.
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She described feeling “trapped” under her mothers roof and expressed relief at her newfound independence. Sami said she had a “spiritual awakening,” adopted two cats, and dropped out of high school.
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At the time, her father publicly stated that he supported her unconditionally and was enjoying their time together, adding, “GED here we come.” A source later disclosed that his home offered more freedom, while her mother and stepfather maintained stricter rules.
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The insider also noted that Samis younger sister, Lola, primarily lived with their mother but stayed with their father when she was away for work.
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The shift in living arrangements was not easy for the actress. When asked in a February 2022 interview whether she was happy with Sami living with her father, she admitted that she would prefer to have her daughter at home.
However, she also recognized the difficulties of raising a teenager today, especially in California, where young people have access to many influences.
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Discussing their bond, the movie star admitted their relationship was strained and that the situation was difficult. Despite this, she remained hopeful that the duo would reconnect in time.
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Since moving out, Sami, 20, has grown close to her mother again. In 2023, she settled into her own place nearby with her famous parents support. A source shared that their bond is stronger than ever, and the celebrity remains dedicated to keeping her daughters close while balancing work and motherhood.
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The actresss second daughter, Lola Sheen, was born in June 2005. In January 2025, she shared a video of her baptism alongside a Bible verse.
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Reflecting on her past struggles in a recent post, she opened up about battling severe depression and anxiety, describing how she had once felt lost and hopeless.
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She credited her faith for transforming her life, saying Jesus renewed her purpose in her darkest moments. For Lola, her baptism symbolized her commitment to faith and a fresh start.
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Along with her faith, she has pursued her own interests. Lola launched a podcast called “Heavenly Bonded” and has explored her love for music. A fan of country singer Zach Bryan, she once attended one of his concerts, sharing her appreciation for his work.
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In addition to her older daughters, actress Denise Richards welcomed her youngest child, Eloise Richards, through adoption in 2011. The process took a year and a half and Aaron later began the process of legally adopting her following their Malibu wedding.
Eloise and Denise Richards pictured on February 6, 2013, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Raising Eloise presents unique challenges. A chromosomal disorder caused developmental delays, and Denise recalled in one interview that her daughter couldn’t sit up for long or walk until age two, even with therapy.
Lola Sheen, Eloise and Denise Richards attend the 3rd Annual Santas Secret Workshop Benefiting LA Family Housing on December 7, 2013, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
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Diagnosed with a deletion in chromosome 8, Eloise, who is often bothered by noise, continues to face obstacles in speech and emotional development.
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Despite the uncertainties, Denise remains hopeful. Acknowledging that every child is different, she focuses on providing the best support possible, “You take care of your children no matter what is going on with them.” While unsure if Eloise will ever communicate like a typical child, her priority is ensuring she has the support she needs.
Read alsoCharlie Sheen Won Full Custody of His 2 Teen Daughters Who Lived with Their Mom in Her ‘Hell House’Meet Brooke Shields 2 Daughters, Where One of Them Looks Like a Mini Version of Their Star Mom – Their PicsWhat Quincy Jones 7 Kids from Multicultural Relationships Look Like – Pics of 6 Beautiful Daughters & One Talented SonAdvertisement
In another interview, Denise explained why she decided to speak publicly about her daughters special needs. She said the topic first surfaced on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” and when viewers noticed certain things, she felt it was important to address them.
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Following the interview, she received an overwhelming response from families facing similar experiences. “I was so touched at how supportive and really wonderful everyone has been, sharing their stories and bringing it out in the open,” she said, calling the outpouring of kindness “pretty incredible.”
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The support Denise received has only strengthened her devotion to her daughter. In May 2024, she celebrated Eloises 12th birthday with a tribute on Instagram, sharing a photo of her smiling.
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“Our beautiful Eloise… happy birthday!!!! I cant believe youre 12! We love you so much. Youre an angel & teach us so much. We love you so much. Happy Birthday girlie!!!!” she wrote, expressing her deep love and admiration.
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Denises tribute was met with warmth from her followers. “Shes so grown up and beautiful!!” one person wrote, while another reflected, “And just like that! I blinked and all grown up, beautiful young lady.” Others echoed similar sentiments, calling Eloise “so beautiful” and “so pretty.”
Aaron Phypers, Eloise and Denise Richards attend the 91st anniversary of the Hollywood Christmas Parade on November 26, 2023, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Through the joys and challenges of motherhood, Denise Richards remains devoted to her children, celebrating each milestone with love and gratitude. As her daughters grow, she continues to embrace every moment, ensuring they feel supported and cherished.
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