The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, a new reality TV series set in suburban Utah, delves into the lives of a group of Mormon women who are reshaping the narrative of their community and faith. This show offers a candid portrayal that challenges traditional perceptions of Mormon lifestyles through the lens of its cast, most of whom gained notoriety as influencers on TikTok.
The series follows these mothers as they navigate controversy, marital challenges, and competitive dynamics stemming from their growing fame and monetary opportunities. Jessi Ngatikaura, one of the show’s stars, shares that they are still learning how to exist in the reality TV sphere, emphasizing, “We’re actually still figuring it out, so you’re getting a genuine look at us.”
Initially a casual endeavor, creating content online turned into a full-time career for the women. They openly discuss the financial implications of reality TV and brand collaborations. “We could walk away anytime, but we chose this,” says Jessi. However, she acknowledges how newfound wealth can strain friendship dynamics, with Whitney Leavitt admitting that competition does arise. Despite tensions, they assure fans that their bonds remain firm even off camera.
During its two-season run, the dramatic storylines featured include Whitney being labeled as a villain and Jessi facing infidelity rumors. Both women express the challenges of being in the public eye, with Whitney revealing, “It’s tough coming to terms with not controlling your narrative.” They underscored the challenges involved in filming regularly, repeatedly emphasizing the emotional truths that unfold naturally.
Given the stressors that come with reality TV, they highlight the importance of aftercare provided by the production team. Jessi and Whitney both have accessed therapy to cope with the pressures of the show, with Whitney explaining her experience as a character dealing with backlash. “I felt a lot of resentment being cast as the villain, but engaging in tough conversations was empowering,” she reflects.
The show has sparked controversies, particularly concerning its candid discussions around sex and drinking, which attracted criticism from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Whitney recounts the initial backlash when the series trailer was released, noting that the church was apprehensive but ultimately realized that the show portrays the diversity of Mormon experiences.
The cast has found that their open conversations encourage others to rethink their faith, with Jessi adding that some viewers feel inspired to explore their spirituality more deeply. “While we’re not representatives of the entire church, we’re sharing our honest experiences as women,” she concludes, aiming to illustrate the relatable struggles many face within their complex identities.
