‘Real Housewives’ Star Challenges LDS Church in New Documentary Series

Heather Gay, a star from “Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,” is set to launch a groundbreaking three-part documentary series titled “Surviving Mormonism with Heather Gay.” This new project will premiere on Bravo and stream on Peacock, with the first episode airing on November 11.
Overview of the Documentary Series
In “Surviving Mormonism,” Gay critically examines the influence of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) in her life and in society. The series aims to highlight the challenges faced by individuals within the church, especially concerning abuse and personal struggles.
Key Episodes and Themes
- Episode 1: Gay interviews David Matheson, a former advocate for conversion therapy who came out as gay in 2019.
- Episode 2: An intense discussion with an old friend, Ben, who reveals his experience with abuse within the church.
- Episode 3: Conversations with two sisters detailing the severe abuse they faced from their father, which church leaders allegedly ignored.
Throughout the series, Gay speaks with abuse survivors, ex-Mormons, and former church leaders, exploring their stories to uncover the dark aspects of the church’s history. Her aim is to “bring awareness and enact change” regarding these sensitive topics.
Heather Gay’s Background
Gay has openly shared her experiences in the Latter-day Saint faith through her memoirs “Bad Mormon” and “Good Time Girl.” She attended Brigham Young University and was married to a member of the faith before leaving the church. Her journey and the insights she offers in this documentary reflect her commitment to addressing the issues within the LDS community.
Church’s Response to Allegations
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has responded to allegations of abuse, stating their intolerance for such behavior. They emphasize the importance of legal prosecution for offenders and the potential loss of church membership for those involved in abusive actions.
Viewing Information
Fans can watch the first episode of “Surviving Mormonism with Heather Gay” on November 11 at 9:15 PM Eastern and Pacific Time, with the Mountain Time schedule varying by service. Following the premiere, the episode will be available for streaming on Peacock starting November 12, along with the subsequent episodes.