Reality television star Whitney Leavitt has openly confessed the true motivation behind her surprising decision to return to the Hulu series, 'The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives'. After initially walking away during contract talks for the show's third season, Leavitt's comeback was driven by a major career opportunity.
The DWTS Audition That Changed Everything
Leavitt's return was officially explained as a result of her moving to a different town in Utah, which created distance from the main 'MomTok' group featured on the show. She consistently maintained that she never actually left the social circle of Mormon mums at the programme's core.
However, the real catalyst was revealed in a clip from season three, episode five. In a conversation with friends, Leavitt disclosed the pivotal information she received. "I just found out if I came back to film, I can audition for Dancing with the Stars," she told them.
She elaborated further in a confessional, stating, "After last season, I did decide to step away from the show, but I never quit MomTok. I was always in MomTok, still a part of that group. I just really needed a break, but then I heard from my team Dancing with the Stars was going to cast someone from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, and that’s a motivator. I'll come back for that."
Addressing Rumours and Securing a Spot
The show's producers also had Leavitt address swirling rumours about specific demands for her return. She denied asking for tickets to the Oscars but confirmed that she had requested a role on a scripted series.
The strategic return paid off. Following interviews with long-time DWTS casting director and co-executive producer, Deena Katz, it was announced that both Jen Affleck and Whitney Leavitt would be joining Season 34 of the ABC competition.
A few weeks before the DWTS premiere, the professional pairings were revealed on Good Morning America. Affleck was partnered with Jan Ravnik, a new professional dancer known for his work on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Leavitt, however, was paired with the highly decorated three-time Mirrorball winner, Mark Ballas, who was returning to the show after a two-season hiatus.
From SLOMW to the DWTS Semifinals
Leavitt and Ballas have proven to be a formidable duo on the dance floor, consistently ranking near the top of the judges' leaderboard, often claiming the number one spot. Their success, however, has not been without controversy.
Some viewers have criticised Leavitt's extensive prior dance experience, noting she holds a degree in dance from Brigham Young University and once competed against current DWTS professional Witney Carson. Other fans have alleged favouritism from the judges, suggesting they are biased towards Ballas and want to see him win another trophy.
Despite the debates, the pair's talent is undeniable. They remain in the competition and are set to dance to two Prince songs during Tuesday's semifinals, airing on the 18th of November 2025.
New episodes of DWTS air Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, available to stream the next day on Hulu. The entire third season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives is now available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
