Mary Kay Letourneau was a teacher who became embroiled in a scandal after developing an inappropriate relationship with one of her students, Vili Fualaau, when he was merely 12 years old. Initially, the two met when Vili was in second grade, and their relationship took a troubling turn years later when Mary Kay gave him special attention in class, ultimately leading to sexual encounters.
The relationship was uncovered after her husband found a love letter exchanged between the two, prompting a police investigation. As a result, Mary Kay was arrested and pled guilty to second-degree child rape, during which she was already pregnant with their first child. Following a brief stint in jail, her continued relationship with Vili led to a longer prison sentence after she was discovered in a car with him, filled with cash and personal belongings.
Despite her legal troubles, Mary Kay married Vili in 2005, and they raised their two daughters together but ultimately faced difficulties that led to their separation in 2019. In the years that followed, Vili struggled with mental health issues, reflecting on the nature of their relationship. When Mary passed away from cancer in 2020, Vili and her family highlighted their efforts to support her during her illness and the profound emotional impact her death had on him.
5 Comments
KittyKat
I think it’s great they got married. Love can come from unexpected places, even unhealthy beginnings.
Loubianka
We can’t deny that people can grow and change; their relationship evolved over time.
Katchuka
Children can’t consent; Mary Kay was an adult who took advantage of a vulnerable boy. Period.
Leonardo
I feel for Vili, but marrying his teacher is a troubling outcome of her abuse, not a happy ending.
Donatello
Let’s not forget that while she was loved by some, many suffered because of her actions.