Reality Television in Utah: A Deep Dive into Two Compelling Shows

There’s something in the water in Utah, because those women are doing reality television the right way. With the sixth season of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City captivating Bravo fans since its debut in 2020, and The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives making waves with its shocking narratives since September 2024, Utah has become a hotbed for reality TV drama. Both shows feature women who share a common background—many grew up Mormon, some have distanced themselves from the church, and all are unafraid to showcase their lives, warts and all.

The TikTok Of It All

While the ladies of Real Housewives of Salt Lake City are not exactly old, they aren’t Gen Z either. Their TikTok presence is minimal, often lacking the behind-the-scenes content that fans crave. In contrast, the Mormon wives have embraced social media with open arms. From humorous takes on their on-screen drama to emotional rants, their TikTok and Instagram accounts are a treasure trove of content. For instance, Jessi Draper’s explosive Instagram story about the Fruity Pebbles incident with Demi Engemann had fans buzzing. The Mormon wives seem to understand that their social media presence is crucial for maintaining viewer interest, making them more relatable and engaging than their Bravo counterparts.

They Never Stop Filming

One of the most refreshing aspects of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is the constant filming. The women are always on, capturing real-time drama that unfolds in their lives. For example, Jessi Ngatikaura and Jordan had to navigate the fallout from an affair that emerged during their crossover with Vanderpump Villa. Unlike the Real Housewives, who often wait months or even years to address past issues, the Mormon wives tackle their problems head-on, providing a raw and immediate viewing experience. This commitment to authenticity keeps fans engaged and invested in their stories.

Little to No Media Training

Taylor Frankie Paul stands out as one of the most genuine figures in reality television today. Her unfiltered approach often leads to controversial moments, but it’s this authenticity that makes her compelling. Unlike the polished personas of the Real Housewives, the Mormon wives often speak their minds without the constraints of media training. This lack of polish creates a captivating dynamic that resonates with viewers, making them feel like they’re watching real people rather than characters crafted for television.

Down-to-Earth Characters

The relatability of the Mormon wives is another factor that sets them apart. They feel like friends or family members we all know—people we can see ourselves in. Their struggles, triumphs, and everyday lives are depicted in a way that feels genuine. In contrast, the Real Housewives often come across as larger-than-life figures, making it harder for viewers to connect. For instance, watching Jen Affleck discuss her prenatal depression or Whitney Leavitt prepare for her Dancing With the Stars interview feels like a glimpse into the lives of real women, making them more relatable and engaging.

Reunions Done Right

Bravo has perfected the reunion formula, allowing cast members to address issues and fan feedback before diving into the next season. This structure provides closure and sets the stage for new drama. In contrast, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives films reunions while simultaneously shooting new episodes, which can lead to choppy editing and unresolved cliffhangers. This difference in approach affects viewer satisfaction, as fans often crave a sense of resolution before moving on to new storylines.

Iconic Lines

While The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City is known for its memorable quotes—like Lisa Barlow’s “I’m shaking, I’m physically shaking” during a dramatic FBI raid—The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has yet to deliver lines that resonate in the same way. The iconic moments from RHOSLC have become part of pop culture, showcasing the power of memorable dialogue in reality TV.

Heather Gay Was Quoted In Congress

In a surprising twist, Heather Gay’s quote about having “receipts! proof! timeline! screenshots! fucking everything!” was even referenced in a congressional hearing. This crossover into political discourse highlights the cultural impact of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City and its ability to transcend the realm of reality television.

The Fashion!!

When it comes to fashion, the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City take the crown. Their extravagant outfits and bold choices provide a level of escapism that fans adore. From Bronwyn Newport’s heart-shaped coat to Meredith Marks’ Swarovski crystal mask, the fashion on RHOSLC is often over-the-top and unforgettable. In contrast, the style showcased in The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives leans more toward casual and relatable, which may not appeal to viewers looking for high-fashion moments.

THAT Below Deck Crossover

This year, The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City made Bravo history with a crossover episode featuring a cast trip on the Below Deck Down Under yacht. This groundbreaking moment not only showcased the Salt Lake City women in a new light but also added an exciting layer to the Real Housewives franchise. The crossover has fans eagerly anticipating how these two worlds will collide, further solidifying RHOSLC’s status as a trendsetter in reality TV.

While both shows have carved out their niches in the reality television landscape, the authenticity and relatability of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives have positioned it as a standout in 2025. The drama, the real-time storytelling, and the down-to-earth characters make it a must-watch for fans of the genre. Now, it’s your turn to weigh in: which show do you think reigns supreme?