The husband of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star Jessi Draper has filed for divorce, a move that closes a tumultuous chapter for the reality pair and raises fresh questions about their family’s future.
What happened — who, when and where
Jordan Ngatikaura filed divorce paperwork in a Utah courthouse on March 19, according to multiple court records and reports. He and Jessi Draper were married in 2020 and share two young children: son Jagger, 5, and daughter Jovi, 3. Jordan is also father to Peyton, 13, from a previous relationship.
In a statement reported by TMZ, Jordan said: “This has not been an easy decision and it comes with a heavy heart. I’m grateful for the shared memories and the lessons. While our paths are now moving in different directions, my priority remains my children and ensuring they feel loved, supported, and protected through this transition. I am committed to handling this next chapter with kindness and respect. I kindly ask for privacy and understanding as we navigate this as a family.”
Background — separations, therapy and allegations
The couple’s marriage was already publicly strained: Season 4 of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives documented a 90-day separation they took in 2025 to work on their relationship. In November 2025, Jessi told People she had experienced what she described as emotional abuse during the marriage and detailed how it built up over time.
Jessi also admitted to an emotional affair with Vanderpump Villa star Marciano Brunette, a development that prompted the pair to try couples therapy. Both Draper and Ngatikaura later said they had been attending therapy and that it had helped.
Reaction, social media and industry fallout
Jessi has not issued a direct public statement about the divorce filing. Reports note she recently posted a slideshow of selfies and shared Instagram Stories of herself practicing dance moves with Dancing With the Stars pro Sasha Farber, appearing to continue with public engagements while the legal process begins.
The split comes amid wider turbulence for the SLOMW cast: production on Season 5 was paused after allegations involving co-star Taylor Frankie Paul and earlier footage of a domestic violence incident prompted investigations and the removal of Paul from other projects.
Why it matters now
Beyond the personal impact on Draper and Ngatikaura’s three children, the filing will affect the reality show’s cast dynamics and production. Viewers who follow SLOMW have seen the marriage struggles play out on camera, meaning the divorce now shifts from on-screen drama to a legal and private family matter.
What to expect next
- Court records show the Utah filing; further legal steps such as hearings or settlement talks are typical but not yet public.
- Jordan has asked for privacy while emphasizing his children’s well-being as the top priority.
- Producers and fans may watch for official statements from Draper, the show or network as this story develops.
We will update this report as new filings, statements or developments are confirmed.