All 10 of the brand new episodes of “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” each have fascinating tidbits to them, from starting off with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ commentary on the show — to the season finale that left viewers with quite a cliffhanger.
The show has drawn 5 million views across the globe just five days after its release, Deadline reported this week.
Ten episodes. Nine moms. Countless tough conversations. Salt Lake Tribune culture and music reporter Palak Jayswal breaks down big takeaways from the second season:
1. Season 2 gets deep — and we get to know the moms beyond their social media presence.
Season 2 tackles incredibly vulnerable topics for the MomTok moms. Mikayla Matthews talks about childhood sexual abuse she endured, Demi Engemann opens up about her infertility journey, Mayci Neeley takes grief by the reins and Jennifer Affleck navigates both mental health challenges and a crisis of faith while pregnant.
2. MomTok is doubling down on breaking cultural norms.
They are open, unabashed, and ready to talk about anything and everything. From comments about being the breadwinners of their families to speaking openly about female pleasure, the moms are adamant on continuing the conversation around how they are fighting against the cultural norms that exist in Utah and the LDS faith.
3. Relationships are messy and a constant work in progress.
Some of the biggest unanswered questions at the end of the first season revolved around the couples in the show, namely Taylor Frankie Paul/Dakota Mortensen and Jennifer Affleck/Zac Affleck. In season 2, viewers get answers to those questions, but they also have a front row — and often uncomfortable — view of the way both of those relationships play out. Watching both couples navigate co-parenting, societal and cultural expectations and their own feelings is a key part of the show.
4. Viewers finally get some clarity on the swinging scandal.
Taylor Frankie Paul and Miranda McWhorter hash out what happened years prior — the swinging scandal that sent MomTok straight into the glaring spotlight. The topic is touched on more in depth than it was in the first season and is punctuated by a confrontation at a Halloween party involving some of the people who were originally involved.
5. All is fair in the world of frenemies and brand deals.
The drama kicked up a few notches in the second season. Between the screaming matches at halloween parties and dessert shops, viewers see how business and friendship clash between the nine moms. Talks of brand deals, monetary recognition and jealously reinforce that MomTok — as stated in the first season — is not only a friend and frenemies group, but also a hub for content and business.
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