Marciano Brunette Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Demi Engemann, Producer of ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’, Over Sexual Assault Allegations

"Vanderpump Villa" personality Marciano Brunette has initiated a defamation lawsuit targeting Demi Engemann and the production company behind "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives," disputing sexual assault allegations made on the show.

According to court filings by Dynamis LLP, Brunette's attorneys claim that Engemann known for appearances on both "Vanderpump Villa" and "The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives" along with Jeff Jenkins Productions, damaged his reputation by labeling him a "sexual predator" and accusing him of assault during Season 3 of "Mormon Wives."

Brunette denies Engemanns claims, which stated she was subjected to unwanted contact during Season 2 of "Vanderpump Villa." His legal team asserts that the encounter was fully consensual and later misrepresented.

"Their interaction began in Italy in August 2024 while filming 'Vanderpump Villa,' involved mutual flirting, private conversations, and a consensual kiss," the attorney explained. "Engemann even expressed affection verbally, and there was no non-consensual behavior, no assault, and nothing predatory."

The complaint details that Brunette and Engemann kept up friendly communication for several months through calls, texts, FaceTimes, and invitations, which his attorney says demonstrated warmth rather than fear or avoidance.

However, the lawsuit alleges that Engemann, who is married, later "recharacterized the clearly consensual encounter as sexual misconduct and ultimately as assault" after facing criticism over her actions.

"She used the allegations to undermine Marcianos credibility, suggesting that others would 'come forward,' and portrayed anyone questioning her version as acting in bad faith," the filing states.

Brunette also names Jeff Jenkins Productions, accusing the producer of exaggerating Engemanns statements for commercial gain. The lawsuit claims the company "built major storylines around her accusations, repeated the sexual predator claims, and broadcast the allegations in a way that maximized impact while excluding Marciano and denying him a chance to respond."

The complaint adds that the production team had "clear reasons to question Engemanns account, including inconsistencies, delays, and facts known to them that contradicted her claims."

Through this legal action, Brunette seeks damages for reputational damage and emotional distress, as well as an injunction preventing Engemann and Jeff Jenkins Productions from repeating the contested statements.

Author: Logan Reeves