Marciano Brunette Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Demi Engemann Amid 'Mormon Wives' Controversy

Marciano Brunette has initiated legal action against Secret Lives of Mormon Wives cast member Demi Engemann, accusing her of defaming him with claims of sexual assault. Court filings obtained by TMZ detail Brunettes assertion that Engemann is tarnishing his reputation by falsely calling him a "sexual predator."

During the third season of Mormon Wives, Engemann alleged that Brunette "inappropriately touched" her without consent and committed sexual assault while they were filming Vanderpump Villa last year. Brunette counters that their interaction was a consensual kiss off-camera.

According to the documents, Brunette argues that Engemann has altered her story multiple times, turning what he claims was a mutual encounter into allegations of sexual misconduct and assault, seemingly to enhance her storyline for the Hulu series.

Brunette is also suing producer Jeff Jenkins, claiming the show "broadcast the allegations in a manner designed to maximize drama" while excluding Brunette and denying him the chance to respond. He asserts that production was aware of inconsistencies in Engemanns account and chose to amplify her claims for profit.

Included in the filings are alleged text messages showing continued communication between Brunette and Engemann after filming, which he claims "indicates an ongoing relationship rather than a reaction to sexual assault." The texts were discussed during season 3, as other cast members questioned why Engemann remained in contact with him. Some interpreted the messages as flirtatious, even speculating about her fidelity to her husband, Bret.

Additionally, Mormon Wives star Jessi Draper revealed she had an emotional connection with Brunette after meeting him on the villa set. Brunette maintains that Engemanns statements have caused "lost career opportunities, harassment, and long-term damage to [his] reputation."

Lisa Vanderpump, present during the alleged incident, defended Brunette in an interview, emphasizing her access to the villas surveillance footage and expressing confidence in his version of events. Engemann, however, told Entertainment Tonight that Vanderpumps account is inaccurate and claimed she requested the footage, only to be denied access.

Engemann has not yet commented publicly on the lawsuit.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, assistance is available 24/7 through RAINNs National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

Author: Ava Mitchell