Mormon Wives’ Jen Shares Her Thoughts on Stassi Schroeder Taking Over as Reunion Host from Nick Viall
Jen Affleck Welcomes Stassi Schroeder as New Reunion Host for "Secret Lives of Mormon Wives"
In a recent reunion special for Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, Jen Affleck expressed her enthusiasm for Stassi Schroeder taking over as the host, replacing Nick Viall. During the episode aired on December 4, Affleck, 26, shared her approval, stating to Schroeder, "I am so glad it is you because I know you are totally unbiased."
Schroeder, 37, credited her experience on Vanderpump Rules for her preparedness in this new role, where she previously co-hosted the Vanderpump Villa reunion alongside Lisa Vanderpump. She responded to Affleck’s compliment with gratitude, saying, "Thank you! Well, I have been in your shoes!"
Before Schroeder’s appointment, Viall, 45, hosted the second season reunion, which aired in July. His tenure was marred by backlash over his questioning style, particularly towards Whitney Leavitt, who faced intense scrutiny throughout the reunion. Viall’s attempts to gather Leavitt’s views on her co-star Demi Engemann’s behavior raised eyebrows, as his inquiries stirred controversy over perceived bias.
“I don’t think that I’m the one to judge that,” Leavitt replied to Viall’s probing, who insisted, “I’m not asking you to judge it. I’m asking you what you think.” This exchange signified a growing tension between Leavitt and Viall, which he later defended during an appearance on the Viall Files podcast. Explicitly addressing the tension, Viall remarked, "I was a bit surprised when Whitney did not like my line of questioning."
Leavitt, 32, mentioned feeling "called out" constantly by Viall, prompting a defense of her accountability compared to fellow cast member Taylor Frankie Paul. "It’s so double standard," she highlighted, questioning whether her critics validated their actions based on personal feelings.
As the conversation unfolded, Viall probed if the audience felt Leavitt had actively taken accountability, and received little support for her stance. He defended his role as the host by stating a desire to balance objectivity while addressing significant topics.
Regarding his departure from hosting duties, Viall confirmed that his involvement ended due to his upcoming Netflix dating show, Age of Attraction, which he is co-hosting with his wife, Natalie Joy, leading to scheduling conflicts.
Reflecting on his exit, Viall expressed disappointment, saying, "I love those women. I love that show and it was great to be a part of it." Meanwhile, Secret Lives of Mormon Wives continues to stream on Hulu, drawing viewers into the personal lives of its stars.
