When you hear the name Irv Richards, you might only think of him as the father of actress Denise Richards, but his life story holds so much more loss, perseverance, family devotion and second chances. In exploring who Irv Richards is, we dive deep into his early life, career, relationships, and the important role he played in shaping Denise’s life and public journey.
Quick Bio of Irv (Irving) Richards
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Irv (Irving) Richards |
| Date of Birth | June 24, 1949 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 76 years |
| Occupation | Retired Telephone Engineer |
| Known For | Father of actress Denise Richards |
| Spouse | Late Joni Richards (d. 2007) |
| Children | Denise Richards, Michelle Richards |
| Grandchildren | Eloise, Sam, and Lola Sheen |
| Famous TV Shows | Denise Richards: It’s Complicated, The Millionaire Matchmaker, RHOBH |
| Nationality | American |
| Current Status | Alive (as of 2025) |
| Relationship After Joni | Engaged to Deb (d. 2018), later dated Kimberley |
| Residence | United States (exact city private) |
From Engineer to Proud Father
Irv Richards was born on June 24, 1949, and worked for many years as a telephone engineer, far removed from the Hollywood spotlight. His steady, practical career provided a foundation for a family life punctuated by love and tragedy. He and his first wife, Joni Richards, raised two daughters: Denise and her younger sister, Michelle.
Early on, Irv’s priority was giving his daughters a stable home. When Denise later rose to fame with films like Wild Things (1998) and The World Is Not Enough (1999), the family’s bond remained central.
A Family in the Spotlight
Denise’s success brought the family into the public eye, including Irv. The reality show Denise Richards: It’s Complicated (2008–2009) featured Irv and offered viewers a window into their lives how Denise, her children, and her father navigated fame and family. As a father, Irv came across as supportive, down-to-earth, and committed to his daughter’s wellbeing despite the tumult of show business.
Tragedy and Resilience
Life has not been without pain for Irv Richards. His first wife Joni died of kidney cancer in November 2007—an event that shook the family deeply. Later, Irv appeared on The Millionaire Matchmaker (Season 6, Episode 4) in January 2013, seeking love again. On the show, he dated Sherilee, and it was reported they were “planning their trip to Yosemite.” However, he did not marry her, and his relationship path continued through further engagements.
In 2018, Denise revealed that Irv’s fiancée, named Deb, had passed away about a month after Denise’s wedding. “She brought a lot of light into my dad’s life since losing my mom,” Denise said. By 2021, reports indicated Irv had found love yet again, dating a woman named Kimberley. Through all this, Irv Richards demonstrated remarkable resilience losing both a wife and a fiancée to cancer and yet remaining open to love and family connection.
Why His Story Matters
The story of Irv Richards is not simply the back-story of a celebrity’s father. It’s about how a father supports his child while pursuing his own journey. Irv navigated career shifts, public attention, heartbreak and second chances. He was the father behind Denise’s early years, and the steady presence in her career dramas and personal life peaks.
His appearance on reality TV wasn’t just for the cameras it underscored a man who was open about life’s ups and downs, including loss, love, and one daughter’s rise to fame.
Legacy and Present Day
Today, Irv Richards may not seek the spotlight, but his influence remains clear. His daughter Denise Richards frequently speaks of him with love and respect. He has lived a life marked by an ordinary beginning, extraordinary family moments, and personal reinvention.
As of 2025, while details of his current relationship are private, Irv Richards continues to be recognized as the beloved dad of Denise and Michelle, a grandfather, and someone who rebuilt his world after major losses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is Irv Richards?
Irv Richards is the father of actress Denise Richards, a retired telephone engineer, and a reality TV personality.
2. Is Irv Richards still alive?
Yes, Irv Richards is alive and well as of 2025, and still maintains a close bond with his family.
3. Who was Irv Richards’ wife?
His first wife was Joni Richards, who sadly passed away from kidney cancer in 2007.
4. Did Irv Richards remarry after Joni’s death?
No, Irv Richards never remarried, but he was later engaged twice, most recently to Deb, who passed away in 2018.
5. What TV shows has Irv Richards appeared in?
He has appeared in Denise Richards: It’s Complicated, The Millionaire Matchmaker, and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
Final Thoughts
He is more than just a name in a celebrity bio. He is a father who valued family, a man who faced life’s fragility and found hope again, and a person who remains supportive of his daughter’s journey. His life is a testament to the power of resilience, love, and quiet strength.
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