These women are mothers, yes, but they are so much more than that. And their partners are not just babysitters; they become real fathers, actively participating in raising the next generation.
Imperfect women
The show also doesn’t shy away from authenticity. We see women truly makeup-free — not just “no-makeup” vibes — and Mikayla openly shares her struggles with her skin in the hope of helping others feel less ashamed. The cast discusses postpartum bodies, the adjustments that come with them, and Taylor candidly talks about her breast augmentation, taking viewers along for the journey. Some influencers will get a breast augmentation before promoting their new push-up bra range. Taylor took us into the surgery itself, as gross as it sounds, but appreciated.
The series also tackles complicated emotional truths. We hear the story behind Jessi having an emotional affair and the real consequences it had on her marriage. Her fears aren’t just about how her friends view her, they extend to her reputation as a businesswoman.
And the drama kicks off immediately: in the very first episode of the whole show, Taylor is arrested for drunk and disorderly behaviour, leading to a discussion about the aftermath of addiction.
We also follow cast members to therapy. Sometimes it’s ketamine therapy, other times more traditional approaches, but the message is clear: therapy is nothing to be ashamed of, and it’s important to find the method that works for you.
The women are imperfect Mormons, which draws plenty of criticism both online and off. But honestly, I have Christian friends who don’t attend church at all or who choose to marry in a stunning vineyard instead of a traditional service. Why shouldn’t these Mormon women be able to make their own choices?
We get to witness Jen, once the devout “Saint” of the group, re-examining her relationship with her faith and reflecting on the ways religion has shaped — and sometimes held back — her personal relationships.
Sisterhood – yes, really
Let’s be honest: girl’s girl energy is fading fast on reality TV.
The Scandoval saga on Vanderpump Rules — aka Tom Sandoval cheating on his partner of nine years, Ariana Madix, with her best friend Rachel Leviss — is still a raw wound. Sure, Tom was clearly in the wrong, but the way Rachel betrayed her friend repeatedly and still stayed in her orbit, listening to all the relationship drama, is frankly terrifying.
Recent seasons of MAFS: Australia and MAFS: UK have leaned far too heavily on women turning on each other, treating each other like competitors rather than colleagues. And don’t even get me started on Love Island: All Stars, where the bullying became genuinely hard to watch.
Now, I won’t deny that watching The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives involves a fair share of yelling; tears, backstabbing, and chaos are still very much on the table. Honey, it is reality television, after all.