Mayci Neeley Welcomes the Removal of the Mormon Wives Storyline from Season 1
Mayci Neeley shared her thoughts on why she appreciates the decision to cut certain storylines from season 1 of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.
“My entire storyline regarding the loss of my son’s father and my 10-year journey with grief was cut from season 1,” Mayci, 30, told Us Weekly at the premiere event for Secret Lives of Mormon Wives at Paramount Studios on Friday, May 9. “However, in hindsight, I’m grateful it was removed from season 1.”
This editing choice allowed Mayci to share her story more effectively, expressing, “I’m thrilled it will be featured in season 2, especially as it aligns with my recent book deal — it all comes together and makes sense.”
Mayci is particularly eager for viewers to connect with her and the other cast members “on a deeper level.”
“Many of us had our personal storylines cut in season 1,” she hinted. “I’m excited to reveal who we truly are beneath the drama and for the audience to get to know us better.”
When asked about additional content that didn’t make the final edit, Mayci shared, “I wasn’t featured much in season 1, but my friendship with Mikayla [Matthews] has been strong since 2020. It’s interesting to see that aspect left out.”
She elaborated: “In season 2, you’ll see the depth of our friendship. Additionally, Mikayla has grown close to Demi [Engemann] and Jessi [Ngatikaura]. Right now, we are even closer with Jessi.”
Season 1 of Hulu’s The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives launched in September 2024, tracking a group of Mormon mom influencers in Utah. Following its popularity surge, Mayci surprised Us by sharing the extent of her scenes that didn’t air.
“I have a unique backstory,” Mayci disclosed in a September 2024 Us Weekly cover story. “I’ve faced challenges like an abusive relationship, sexual assault, and domestic violence.”
Mayci later entered a relationship with Arik Mack and became pregnant before marriage, which is typically frowned upon in the Mormon Church. Tragically, Arik lost his life in a car accident due to texting, just after their son Hudson was born. Now 9, Hudson has been raised by Mayci as a single mother who returned to school.
“I realize that season 1 primarily focused on development. It’s about discovering who we are on the surface and what’s happening in the present,” Mayci reflected. “I continue to grapple with issues from my past. It’s challenging, and while I’ve made progress, I definitely still require therapy.”
She went on: “I’ve developed a lot of empathy. I approach everyone with understanding, and I think that’s evident in the show. Once people learn about my background, they become more aware of my actions on the show.”
The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives season 2 is set to premiere on Thursday, May 15, on Hulu.
With reporting by Olivia Bria
