Billy Bob Thornton's estranged wife has sued him, alleging he stalked and assaulted her during their four-year marriage.

Pietra Thornton is seeking unspecified damages from the writer, director and star of the movie "Sling Blade," which won an Academy Award for best adapted screenplay. Her lawyer, Gloria Allred, released copies of the complaint to reporters Thursday in Santa Monica, Calif.The lawsuit, which was filed Sept. 10, alleges Thornton punched, choked and bit his fourth wife, making her fear for her life. The couple have two young sons.

In June, a judge issued dual restraining orders after Thornton alleged it was he who had been threatened by his wife.

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