Zac Affleck, a character from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, embodies a multitude of flaws. He struggles with his role as a husband, lacks stable employment, and is not related to the famed actor Ben Affleck. More importantly, he’s often misguided in his beliefs. However, what stands out about Zac is his bold critique of MomTok, asserting that it fundamentally contradicts the principles of true female empowerment. In Season 1, he was portrayed as a significant antagonist, and his role hasn’t improved in Season 2. Besides clashing with his estranged pregnant wife, Jen Affleck, he finds himself in conflict with her acquaintances, Jessi Ngatikaura and Demi Engemann. Zac’s behaviors seem to stem from internalized aspects of a patriarchal Mormon upbringing, yet he surprised many by calling out MomTok for its lack of genuine support for women.

Recognizing Hypocrisy in MomTok Culture

In Season 2 of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, the women often engage in discussions about the essence of MomTok, a term that seems to shift based on their current needs and desires. This interpretation appears to be quite fluid, adapting to their circumstances. For instance, when Whitney Leavitt seeks reintegration into the group, MomTok suddenly morphs into a narrative of “forgiveness.” Conversely, when Demi aims to exclude Taylor Frankie Paul, she frames MomTok as a movement for “standing on business.” This inconsistency highlights that MomTok may actually embody a more cult-like mentality than even the rigid structures of Mormonism, revealing an intense and often harmful dedication amongst these women, bordering on self-debasement.

Despite their claims that MomTok is rooted in female empowerment, this assertion is challenged by Zac’s observations during his disputes with Jen regarding the group. He quickly dismantles the notion that MomTok fosters a supportive environment for women, pointing out the pervasive negativity and hostility that exists among its members both online and offline. It’s worth noting that much of their social media engagement and financial success appears to stem from their mean-spirited interactions. While Zac may not be winning any supporters from MomTok, he does seem to lack accountability in his marriage, which further complicates his stance. Ironically, despite being labeled one of the primary misogynists on the show, his critique of MomTok’s toxic dynamics highlights a significant truth about the group: their lack of self-awareness is glaringly evident.

Dissecting MomTok and Its Failure to Empower Women

The women involved in MomTok consistently engage in discussions about what the movement represents, but they seem to hold a dangerously misguided belief that it embodies true female empowerment. From our limited perspective into their lives, it becomes evident that these women often resort to vicious verbal attacks against one another, cloaked in the guise of “honesty” and “accountability.” Social media is rife with passive-aggressive exchanges, with Mikayla Matthews often leading the charge. Her TikToks frequently target Whitney, yet when Whitney confronts her about this, Mikayla dismisses it as narcissism, claiming that Whitney thinks everything revolves around her. However, Mikayla, your words and actions this season are undeniably focused on Whitney, making it clear that your narrative is centered around her. They take part in toxic games like “The Truth Box” and Mayci Neely’s “Sinner Sundays,” which serve as veiled opportunities to hurl baseless accusations at one another and inflict emotional pain anonymously. Just imagine the dynamics that unfold beyond what is captured on camera!

These women appear preoccupied with the concepts of “healing” and “personal growth,” striving to create an image of themselves as dedicated to self-improvement. They emphasize the importance of therapy—both traditional talk therapy and alternatives like ketamine treatments. Many of them abstain from alcohol and adhere to disciplined, healthy lifestyles. However, despite their claims of prioritizing mental health, they simultaneously indulge in the toxic behaviors fostered by social media. They attempt to counteract this negativity by sharing uplifting quotes and infographics about accountability and personal growth, yet they often fail to embody these principles in their real lives. It’s disheartening to witness how therapy terminology is weaponized among these women, transforming genuine healing into a superficial trend. Despite their assertions that MomTok is about supporting one another, the evident hazing, aggression, and negativity reveal a starkly different reality. It’s painful to concede that a man, particularly Zac Affleck, has made a valid point amidst this turmoil, highlighting the troubling behavior of these women towards one another. The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is currently available for streaming in the United States on Hulu.