The latest season of TLC’s reality show The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives centers around the tumultuous relationship of stars Jessi and Jordan Ngatikaura. The series unfolds as Jessi publicly confesses to an emotional affair with Vanderpump Rules alum Marciano Brunette, rocking their already strained marriage. The revelations force the couple to confront deeply ingrained issues within their dynamic, ultimately leading them to a separation in hopes of repairing the damage.
Season three opens with Jessi taking ownership of her actions: she admits to kissing Brunette twice and engaging in what she describes as an “emotional affair” driven by a desperate need for validation. She explains that Jordan knew about the infidelity for months prior, and together they made the controversial decision to keep it concealed while attempting to work through their marriage problems.
However, this attempt at secrecy is undermined by ongoing tensions within the relationship. Jessi’s disclosures of Jordan’s emotional abuse add another layer of complexity to their situation. This ultimately leads them to agree to a 90-day separation as they grapple with the repercussions of her affair and her accusations against him.
While the show depicts their struggles, there is good news for fans: the couple has publicly reconciled. Jessi confirmed in November 2023 that she and Jordan are indeed still together after dedicating themselves to extensive therapy sessions. This commitment to working through their issues stems from both individuals recognizing a need for accountability and personal growth.
“We’ve been doing a lot of therapy,” Jessi told SheKnows. “I think it needed to happen this way, almost, for both of us to hold ourselves accountable…Now that the world is going to know it’s like, we can’t act that way anymore.”
In addition to their own well-being, they cite the importance of setting a healthy example for their two young children: daughter Jovi (2.5 years old) and son Jagger (5 years old). The couple acknowledged the challenges brought about by Jessi being the primary breadwinner in their household. Jordan reportedly struggled with feelings of purpose and inadequacy stemming from not contributing financially, adding further strain to their relationship dynamic.
Despite these hurdles, there were glimpses of hope throughout the season. At its climax, Jordan expresses his desire to salvage their marriage, telling Jessi he wants “to make it work” and that both deserve a fresh start free of past baggage. He attributes his emotional outbursts to unresolved trauma from his past and pledges to confront them through therapy.
Jessi reciprocates with cautious optimism but acknowledges the daunting prospect of breaking old patterns. Still, they agree to give their marriage another chance, choosing to move forward as a united family. Jordan’s effusive Instagram post dedicated to Jessi on Mother’s Day further emphasizes his affection and commitment to her role within their family unit.
Ultimately, the journey documented in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives paints a complex picture of a couple grappling with infidelity, emotional abuse, gender roles, and personal growth — illustrating how even seemingly insurmountable challenges can be met head-on with honesty, introspection, and unwavering commitment.
