Jessi Ngatikaura, cast member of the reality series Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, has rejected recent allegations made by fellow reality TV figure Marciano Brunette, who claimed the two had a romantic encounter during filming at the Vanderpump Villa in Italy.
Speaking with Bustle on May 22, Ngatikaura responded sharply, saying, “What he said was not accurate,” and described Brunette using an expletive. Due to ongoing production for the show’s upcoming season, she indicated she could not share full details, but assured viewers the complete story would unfold on-screen.
The controversy erupted after an episode aired in which Brunette told castmate Layla Taylor that his connection with Ngatikaura went beyond a casual interaction. He further implied that the relationship had extended beyond a single night and that Jessi’s husband, Jordan Ngatikaura, was unaware of the full extent of what had transpired.
Ngatikaura addressed the emotional toll the allegations had on her marriage, noting that her husband was already aware of the situation before the episode aired, but watching it unfold publicly was difficult. She shared that they are currently navigating the aftermath together, though she acknowledged their relationship is under strain and she is not currently wearing her wedding ring.
Despite the turmoil, Ngatikaura expressed hope that being transparent about her experiences will support other women facing challenges in their personal lives. “Relationships are complicated, and people make mistakes,” she said. “I hope sharing this will help others.”
The scandal follows earlier Season 2 rumors involving Ngatikaura and Brunette, including speculation about an encounter at the Los Angeles bar TomTom. In that same episode, Brunette also hinted at past intimacy with another married castmate, Demi Engemann.
Ngatikaura concluded by saying that Season 3 would provide viewers with a deeper look into her real life and marriage. “This season, I’ll be more open and vulnerable,” she said. “What’s happening is real life—and it’s not easy.”
