Denise Richards Discusses Past Trauma on TV

Denise Richards opened up about her traumatic experiences, including a sexual assault she endured at 15, during the season three premiere of Fox's Special Forces: World's Toughest Test. The challenge of performing a helicopter extraction triggered her memories, prompting her to express a desire to overcome fear and trauma. Richards described a specific incident where she was followed and assaulted, stating, "I just froze" and couldn't call for help. She also recounted a recent road rage incident where she was shot at, revealing how fear paralyzed her in both situations. Despite failing the helicopter challenge, she emphasized her commitment to learning how to deal with fear and being stronger for her three daughters. Richards admitted that she had only shared her assault story with her husband and broke down in tears discussing her fears for her children.