Trigger Warning: This article contains a discussion of sexual assault allegations.
The Season 3 reunion of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives was heavy at times. Of course, one of the main topics was Demi Engemann’s claims against Vanderpump Villa alum Marciano Brunette. The duo was flirty during Demi’s time at the castle in Italy.
However, Demi alleged that she was “groped” and “sexually assaulted” during her time at the castle. At that time, she never mentioned the alleged party’s name. Later, it became clear that she was accusing Marciano. Meanwhile, Demi stayed in contact with Marciano, which confused some of her SLOMW co-stars.
Marciano Brunette has denied Demi Engemann’s claims against him
In a statement, Marciano denied Demi’s allegations. “This is the most difficult situation I have ever faced, and the allegations against me are not only entirely false but profoundly damaging,” Marciano’s statement read.
During the reunion, Demi’s former bestie, Jessi Ngatikaura, shared a previous incident from her past, stating that she had been raped. When Demi became emotional, host Stassi Schroeder asked her about it. “I think just like deep, deep wounds and things for me that I haven’t fully uncovered and things I know I’ve been through that I blocked out as well,” Demi explained. “So to not be believed and be questioned and called a liar, it was horrible.”
After a fiery exchange between Demi, her husband, Bret Engemann, and Jen Affleck and her husband, Zac Affleck, Demi broke down backstage. “I will never put myself in a situation like that again,” Demi said as she cried. “And that sucks, especially when you’ve been in that situation, and it brings up old stuff.” She added, “Then you start really blaming yourself for like what they did.”
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is now streaming on Hulu.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or access RAINN’s online chat service.
TELL US – WHAT DID YOU THINK OF WHAT DEMI SAID AT THE REUNION? SHOULD THE SLOMW LADIES BE MORE SUPPORTIVE OF DEMI?
