**Jessi Draper and Marciano Brunette Spark Romance Rumours at 2026 AMAs**
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The glitz and glamour of the 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs) was heightened by the appearance of reality TV star Jessi Draper and former flame Marciano Brunette. The pair ignited fresh speculation about their relationship status as they walked the red carpet together, marking a significant moment given Draper’s recent personal upheaval.
Draper, aged 34 and best known for her role in *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives*, has been navigating turbulent waters following her divorce from Jordan Ngatikaura. In a transparent conversation with *People*, she confirmed her current relationship status, saying, “I am single, and we’re just spending time together.” The two were photographed closely, with Draper expressing that while she is going through a divorce, she and Brunette are merely reconnecting.
The couple’s appearance comes on the heels of a challenging few months for Draper. In March, her ex-husband, Ngatikaura, filed for divorce, raising concerns about their family dynamic. The pair share two children: Jagger, aged six, and Jovi, aged three. With her divorce proceedings still ongoing, Draper spoke candidly about the difficulties of co-parenting. “There’s obviously feelings and contention and it can be really hard and your emotions are heightened,” she shared. Draper expressed hope that with time, navigating their new relationship as co-parents would become more manageable.
Brunette, 33, entered the public eye in 2024 during a controversy that involved an emotional affair with Draper while she was still married to Ngatikaura. That clandestine kiss captured headlines and unveiled the complexities of their relationships. Reflecting on that time, Draper acknowledged the emotional strain it caused, revealing that she had previously felt “terrified” about the public’s reaction.
Draper’s remarks regarding her current situation highlighted the seemingly supportive nature of her relationship with Brunette. “He’s really been there for me,” she noted, suggesting that their connection may stem from a shared understanding of each other’s experiences. Brunette added light-heartedly, “I’m having fun,” indicating a laid-back approach to their rekindled interactions.
The drama unfolded further when Brunette and Ngatikaura squared off in a filmed conversation in the summer of 2025, which was broadcast earlier this year. During this tense exchange, Brunette apologised for his involvement in the emotional affair, but Ngatikaura remained resistant to accepting the apology, revealing the painful ramifications of the situation. “The pain you caused me, the pain you caused my wife, what you put my kids through – it’s hard to accept it,” he said, underscoring the lasting impact of the affair on his family.
As the red carpet event progressed, Draper and Brunette’s chemistry was palpable, stirring up conversations about their potential romantic future. While Draper is conscious of her present situation, her comments hint at a willingness to explore what their relationship could become.
For Draper, reflecting on her recent challenges, coupled with the need to focus on her children’s well-being, is paramount. She mentioned the emotional rollercoaster and the potential strain on her family during this period of transition. “Sometimes you’ll say or do something you don’t mean,” she cautioned, emphasising the need for patience and understanding as they navigate the complexities of their new family dynamics.
Fans and followers alike will be watching closely to see how Jessi Draper and Marciano Brunette’s relationship evolves in the coming months. For now, Draper appears to be enjoying her freedom and rekindling a past connection while managing the changes in her personal life.