Marciano Brunette Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Demi Engemann Over Sexual Predator Claim

Marciano Brunette Files Defamation Lawsuit Against Demi Engemann

Marciano Brunette, known from the Bravo reality show Vanderpump Villa, has initiated legal action against Demi Engemann, star of Hulu’s The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. The lawsuit accuses Engemann of defamation resulting from her claims that Brunette engaged in sexual misconduct.

According to court documents obtained by PEOPLE, Brunette alleges that the two shared a consensual kiss during filming for Vanderpump Villa. He claims Engemann subsequently reinterpreted this interaction as sexual assault within her storyline on Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

Brunette’s attorneys argue that Engemann used her influencer and television platform to falsely allege unwanted touching and harm his reputation. He maintains that the allegations are entirely false and damaging, issuing a statement affirming his commitment to addressing the matter transparently and seriously.

The complaint further alleges that Brunette and Engemann maintained contact for months through texts, calls, and even video chats involving Engemann’s child. Supporting evidence includes screenshots of friendly communications, suggesting the relationship was not hostile. In one message, Engemann reportedly encouraged Brunette to participate in ketamine treatment, while also sending prayers and positive wishes.

In addition to naming Engemann, Brunette’s suit includes Jeff Jenkins Productions, the company behind Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. The lawsuit claims the production company knowingly aired Engemann’s potentially false allegations to bolster the show’s narrative. The complaint accuses the producers of ignoring inconsistencies and denying Brunette meaningful chances to respond.

Engemann’s allegations reportedly escalated months after the initial incident, following Brunette’s Instagram post alluding to being “uninvited” from a Hulu event due to rumors. Engemann countered by labeling Brunette a “sexual predator,” further intensifying the dispute publicly.

The lawsuit alleges that Engemann also accused Brunette of assaulting other women, including a remark expressing anticipation for additional accusers to come forward. Brunette is now seeking unspecified financial damages and a court order preventing Engemann and the production company from repeating defamatory statements.

No public responses have been provided yet by Engemann or Jeff Jenkins Productions regarding the legal action. This case highlights ongoing tensions between reality TV personalities and the legal boundaries of public accusations made in entertainment media.