Sister Wives star Meri Brown’s journey has often painted her as a victim in the polygamous dynamics of her marriage to Kody Brown. However, as the narrative unfolds, it’s evident that she plays a crucial role in her own discontent. At 53, Meri was Kody’s first legally wed wife, entering into marriage with him in 1990. Despite both coming from polygamous backgrounds, their initial union did not include plans for additional wives. Yet, within just a few years, Kody expanded his family, marrying Janelle and Christine before eventually adding Robyn to the fold 16 years later.
What was intended to be a portrayal of a harmonious polygamous family in the reality series transformed dramatically by the time Sister Wives reached its 19th season. The familial fabric unraveled significantly as Kody’s third wife, Christine, exited the marriage in 2021, followed by Janelle. The culmination of this series of departures led to Meri’s own decision in 2022, after 32 years together, to end her spiritual union with Kody. Since then, her allegiances appear to have shifted towards individuals who may not serve her best interests.
Meri’s Loyalty to Kody and Robyn
A Shaky Alliance
Meri often felt isolated, perceiving Christine and Janelle as adversaries. This led her to strongly advocate for Robyn’s inclusion in their family, a move that deepened the chasm between her and the other wives. After Christine and Janelle departed, Meri persisted in supporting Kody and Robyn, despite Kody’s admission of lacking attraction to her. While Meri had numerous opportunities to leave the marriage, she opted to endure Kody’s emotional detachment, subsequently leaving her feeling resentful—not towards him, but towards herself.
The Strained Bonds with Christine and Janelle
A History of Disconnection
Throughout their lives, the Brown family exhibited signs of division, with one faction comprised of Christine and Janelle and another led by Kody and Robyn. Meri’s inclination to support Kody and Robyn only intensified the family discord, especially as divorces began to affect their dynamic. Even during more stable times, Meri’s connections with Christine and Janelle were fraught with tension. The rivalry with Christine and Janelle contributed to her insistence on Kody marrying Robyn, aiming to regain a sense of control within the family structure.
Meri as the New Villain in Season 19
Navigating Complex Emotions
Meri’s decision to remain in the marriage far longer than advisable ultimately led to her breaking point, as depicted in the current season. Once she resolved to disengage from Kody, she began to express the anger she had bottled up for years. Although her confrontational behavior might come across as vindictive, it is quite reasonable considering the emotional toll of years spent feeling neglected. Realizing that it was time to prioritize her well-being, Meri can now focus on building a new life, despite the haunting memories of her past.
Wife | Age | Married | Divorced | Children |
Meri Brown | 53 | 1990 | 2022 | 1 |
Janelle Brown | 55 | 1993 | 2022 | 6 (1 deceased) |
Christine Brown | 52 | 1994 | 2021 | 6 |
Robyn Brown | 45 | 2010 | — | 5 (3 from previous marriage) |
Sister Wives airs Sundays at 10 p.m. EST on TLC.
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