As a devout Mormon woman navigating reality TV and relationships, I’ve learned to keep my faith close while maintaining my integrity. It’s been quite a journey, much like riding a rollercoaster – exhilarating, nerve-wracking, but ultimately, an unforgettable experience.
It’s tough when a church you hold dear criticizes its own production, and it’s even more challenging when the flaws in your marriage become public spectacle on stage.
Jennifer Affleck is well-aware of this situation: She joined Hulu’s “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives” when her marriage with husband Zac was already facing difficulties. During a troublesome group trip to Las Vegas, Zac warned Jen that she risked divorce if she went to see the Chippendales. Simultaneously, it emerged that Zac was secretly gambling to deal with his worries, an action frowned upon by the Church.
Despite some challenges, attending the show had its advantages for Jen. She became part of a group of LDS moms who make TikTok videos, women she now considers close friends (and colleagues in MomTok). Additionally, she garnered her own round of media attention: A relative of post-Bennifer Ben, Jen claims to be the new Jenny from the Block. Furthermore, as the primary earner in her household while Zac is in medical school, the income from the show was beneficial.
On the premiere day, a day after watching the edited episodes, Affleck sat down for a conversation about creating the show while maintaining her faith. “I’ve undergone a considerable amount of therapy since filming,” she shares. “I’ve done the necessary work to heal and reach a point where I can joyfully celebrate this day, which is a victory.
What led you to become part of the show?
I wasn’t connected with the group initially. One day, my manager unexpectedly contacted me and asked, “Hey, there’s a potential show about Mormon moms, would you be interested?” It wasn’t certain if it was going to be a show yet, but I began spending time with the ladies.
Are you currently involved in the community known as MomTok?
I joined MomTok approximately one year ago, but I wouldn’t classify myself as an original member. However, at this moment, I do consider myself a part of it. To my surprise, it’s not solely focused on business matters, which wasn’t initially my expectation. Initially, I approached MomTok with the perspective that it was merely a business opportunity. I didn’t foresee becoming as connected as I have with all the other members.
Before that incident, you hadn’t been active on social media. Could you tell me about your connection with these platforms? It wasn’t by design for me to engage in social media. A few years ago, I embarked on a videography business as my husband was pursuing medical school at the time, leaving me without any career background to fall back on. As a result, I started sharing my pregnancy journey, which unexpectedly garnered around 9 million views overnight.
As a film enthusiast, let me share my experience with the show’s production. Frankly, it felt so natural that I often forgot about the cameras being there. There were moments when I should have paused and stepped back for a better perspective. If given a chance to redo something, I would have minded my eating habits more. You see, I was snacking and eating in almost every scene, and only later realized how much it reflected my genuine self. That’s the mark of an authentic performance, don’t you think?
Here’s a possible paraphrasing:
It’s been noticed by my fellow cast members that I too wear undergarments, which are significant for me as they remind me of the commitments made during temple sealing. These garments serve as a constant reminder that I am representing more than just myself – my religion, faith, and relationship with God. Wearing them during the show kept me focused and reminded me of my higher purpose.
As we approach the conclusion of the show, it’s unsettling to see my confrontation with Zac during the Chippendales performance. Reflecting on this situation, I feel a mix of emotions. Initially, I chose to proceed with filming despite our rocky relationship because it aligned with my personal, professional, and family aspirations. In hindsight, perhaps that conflict was instrumental in our journey, as it unveiled aspects I had been unwilling to confront. This is something many within the Church community tend to avoid, and I believe this reluctance should be addressed for a healthier culture.
After the filming, we’ve been working on therapy relentlessly. Maintaining our relationship requires some adjustments. If these adjustments aren’t made, we may need to explore other possibilities. However, at this moment, I believe he is genuinely making an effort to bring about those changes.
As for watching those episodes featuring Zac, he’s currently focused on schoolwork and preparing for three exams. I ended up viewing them with my partner last night. Despite finding it challenging, it was somewhat comforting to watch. Since the issues have been brought to light, we seem to be left with two options: implement necessary changes or possibly consider ending our relationship. It’s tough for me to admit that openly.
Have you discussed with Zac the part in those last episodes where his character gambles? So far, he’s only seen the Vegas scenes from start to finish, and it seems to have left him feeling uneasy given the series finale. As we revisit these moments, let me share that although gambling is generally discouraged in Mormon culture, I know several church members who indulge in it casually for entertainment.
It seems understandable that the Church might have had a critical response towards the show. What are your thoughts on their stance? I can relate, as I’ve experienced similar situations where people judge or misunderstand a community I belong to. For instance, when the swinging scandal involving MomTok occurred, many assumed that I was part of it due to the history of polyamory in our group. It becomes tiresome having to constantly clarify, “No, we don’t do this.” From a member’s perspective, it can be exhausting dealing with such misunderstandings. It appears that the statement was more targeted towards Church members rather than outsiders. Needless to say, reading that they’re talking about us isn’t exactly pleasant.
For a short while, you’ve been linked with Ben Affleck in some gossip columns. But just like Jennifer Lopez who was once Jennifer Affleck and then returned to her original name, I am the only one still associated with him now. I guess you could say I’m the modern-day Jenny from the Block!
Are you asking about how I’m connected to Ben? Well, we aren’t acquainted, neither has my spouse ever met him. However, he is my husband’s grandfather’s first cousin’s son, so they might have crossed paths long ago, possibly at a family gathering when they were very young, but there isn’t much of a relationship to speak of now.
Have you heard anything from his camp?
Nothing. But I’m curious to know if he’s watched.
Wrapping up, could you tell me please what type of soda drink you’d like, specifically if it’s a Diet Dr. Pepper with a hint of peach cream, mixed half-and-half, and without any regular sugar?
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2024-09-10 18:54