Mikayla Matthews and her spouse, Jace Terry, have made headlines with their recent announcement of separation during the latest season of *The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.* The split has raised eyebrows among fans of the reality series, particularly given the couple’s previous struggles with intimacy, which were first highlighted in the show’s third season.
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Shortly before the public revelation of their separation on March 12, Matthews took to Instagram to express her gratitude for her followers, whom she referred to as her “safe space.” This post came as viewers were gearing up for the new season, during which Matthews candidly shared her postpartum health challenges. The timing of her heartfelt message has led many to reflect on the tumultuous journey she faced both personally and in her marriage.
In a recent episode, Matthews explained how her health and wellbeing struggles had taken a toll on her relationship with Terry. As a mother of three, including a newborn, the demands of her health issues had become overwhelming. Matthews described the experience of filming the series just weeks after giving birth, labelling it as one of the most challenging periods in her life due to severe health flare-ups.
Throughout the narrative of the show, it became clear that Matthews and Terry were grappling with escalating intimacy concerns. During a confessional, she articulated her frustration about how her health impeded not only her professional opportunities but also the vitality of their marriage. She expressed that their ongoing issues were compounded by her past trauma, which both she and Terry were still navigating.
The couple’s decision to separate was reflected in intimate scenes throughout the season, as Matthews packed her belongings. In a particularly emotional exchange, she articulated her desire to rediscover herself outside the role of a wife. Terry, meanwhile, shared his disappointment about Matthews’ reluctance to engage in trauma therapy, which was identified as a potential avenue for healing.
As discussions regarding their relationship unfolded, Terry openly acknowledged his feelings of discomfort regarding the lack of intimacy issues. He candidly stated that while he understood Matthews’ struggles, it was difficult for him to accept the status quo of their relationship. He emphasised his willingness to be patient but underscored the necessity for them both to prioritise emotional healing.
The dynamic between the couple revealed a poignant narrative regarding the impact of trauma on relationships. Matthews highlighted a shared understanding with fellow cast member Whitney Leavitt, who has endured similar struggles. Their joint experiences created a sense of solidarity amidst the challenges both women faced in their personal lives.
Despite their separation, conversations suggest that the couple remains committed co-parents to their three children. Their daughter, Lottie June, was born in July 2025, adding a new layer of complexity to their situation. The two daughters, Tommie and Haven, and son, Beckham, previously brought them joy but also imposed additional stress as they navigated the separation.
In an exclusive interview prior to the season’s launch, Matthews elaborated on her evolving relationship with Terry, acknowledging that the journey of healing from their shared trauma was ongoing. She indicated that while they might not yet have resolved their challenges, they were committed to showing growth and maintaining their partnership at some capacity.
*The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives* season 4 is currently available to stream on Hulu and Disney+, providing an opportunity for viewers to witness the intricacies of Matthews and Terry’s relationship. The show has garnered a significant following, not only for its dramatic storytelling but also for shedding light on the reality of modern marriage amidst mental health struggles and the impact of trauma.
For those who may be grappling with similar issues or are survivors of abuse, resources like the Crisis Text Line are available. By texting “STRENGTH” to 741-741, individuals can access support from certified crisis counsellors, underscoring the importance of seeking help in times of need.