Jessi Draper, a prominent figure on the reality show “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” has provided an update on the status of the series during a recent appearance on the popular podcast “Call Her Daddy,” hosted by Alex Cooper. This update comes as production on the fifth season of the show faces a notable pause due to legal troubles surrounding one of its stars.
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During the podcast episode, which aired on March 25, Draper addressed ongoing concerns relating to Taylor Frankie Paul, another cast member who is currently under investigation for allegations of domestic assault. The production hiatus, confirmed by sources from PEOPLE, was implemented shortly after news broke of the investigation, which began on March 16.
As Draper laid out the current situation, she expressed uncertainty regarding when filming might resume. “I don’t know because right now we’re on a film pause,” she remarked candidly. The reality star acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, “I feel like all of us right now are just trying to be like, ‘Okay, we’re human beings first, and let’s figure that out and then we’ll get back to filming the show.'”
In a lighter tone, Draper jested about the drama permeating their lives, suggesting that if the filming were to continue, it would make for compelling television. “Clearly there’s no shortage of drama in our lives. So, if we get another season, it’s going to be good,” she quipped.
Tensions escalated when TMZ released a troubling video that depicted Paul allegedly attacking her former partner, Mortensen, and hurling furniture during an altercation. In light of these events, ABC made the decision to cancel Paul’s season of “The Bachelorette,” just days before its intended premiere. Draper’s revelations on the podcast came as many in the community distanced themselves from Paul amid the unfolding narrative of domestic violence.
Draper indicated that cast members were now more open to discussing the situation and its impact on the show. “Now we’re at a point where we’re like, ‘Okay, the world knows and like the info’s out there,'” Draper noted, emphasising the need for transparency. She expressed hope that the news being public might facilitate a more genuine dialogue among the cast regarding the unfolding events.
In an emotional twist, Draper revealed that she had received a call from Paul shortly after the cancellation of “The Bachelorette.” It was a day marked by personal upheaval for Draper as well, as she also learned that her husband, Jordan Ngatikaura, had filed for divorce. The two shared mutual concern for each other amidst their respective challenges, reflecting the heightened emotional stakes involved.
As events continued to evolve, Mortensen filed a restraining order against Paul, which was approved by the court. This order grants him temporary custody of their two-year-old son, Ever. Draper confirmed that Ever remains with Mortensen, as they prepare for a court hearing scheduled to take place on April 7, where Paul will reportedly have the opportunity to present her side of the story.
Compounding the gravity of the situation, Paul has previous legal issues stemming from claims of domestic violence during a 2023 incident involving Mortensen, where she was accused of throwing chairs, subsequently injuring their daughter. Paul did plead guilty to lesser charges, with other accusations being dismissed under conditions of compliance with plea terms.
The public fallout has also drawn varied responses from both parties. A spokesperson for Paul issued a statement decrying the release of the video as an effort by Mortensen to harm her reputation. Conversely, Mortensen expressed his distress over the situation while asserting his commitment to ensuring their child’s safety amidst the unsettling circumstances.
The cast of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” now faces an uncertain future with the production hiatus complicating the dynamics within the group. Draper hinted at the potential for a new spinoff series, reportedly set to film this spring, although it remains unclear how the current turmoil will affect its development.
For those affected by domestic violence, resources are available, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which offers confidential support and is accessible around the clock. The evolving story highlights the intricate interplay between personal lives and public narratives in the realm of reality television, leaving audiences eager for further developments.