In a recent interview, Janelle Brown has opened up about the surprising news of her ex-husband Kody Brown’s departure from the long-running TLC series, Sister Wives. This development marks a significant shift in the show’s dynamics, as Kody Brown, aged 57, did not feature alongside Janelle, Christine, and Meri Brown for the first time in the latest season.
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The dramatic turn was revealed in a trailer released by TLC on September 14, indicating that both Kody and his current wife, Robyn Brown, would not be returning to the programme. Janelle shared her reaction to this unexpected announcement, saying, “I actually got an email that they weren’t coming back, and I’m like, ‘Oh, wow. Okay.’” It seems that the news was a shock not only to her but also to their children, who she noted had little to no relationship with their father. “They were surprised,” she stated when recounting the reactions of her children, including Logan, Madison, Hunter, Gabe, Savanah, and the late Garrison.
Janelle said she has not been in contact with Kody and Robyn since they sold their shared property, which marked a significant point in the previous season. Although she expressed concern for their wellbeing, she admitted that she only knows about their lives through hearsay. She remarked, “I hope they’re going to be okay,” reflecting a sense of ambivalence about the split.
The exit of Kody and Robyn comes amidst a backdrop of turmoil within the Brown family. Christine Brown ended her spiritual marriage to Kody in November 2021 after 25 years and six children, and Janelle followed suit, announcing her separation a year later. Meri Brown, the last of Kody’s former wives, also ended her relationship with him in January 2023.
The recent season of Sister Wives has tackled the impact of these departures. Janelle noted that while Kody and Robyn are physically absent, their presence is still felt in the ongoing discussions among the remaining wives. “We needed to make sure people understood why they weren’t there,” she explained regarding the emphasis on their absence in the premiere episode. She anticipates that as the season progresses, references to them will diminish.
Both Christine and Meri have expressed their own surprise regarding Kody and Robyn’s exit. Christine candidly shared her confusion, stating, “I don’t know how to process it all… It’s just bizarre they’re done.” Meri echoed these sentiments, admitting that she too was caught off guard when the news broke.
As the new season unfolds, Janelle expressed optimism about moving forward, despite the ending of an era. “There are so many beautiful things happening for all of us,” she said. This sentiment illustrates her desire to focus on positive developments rather than the upheaval caused by their previous relationships.
The new episodes of Sister Wives continue to air on Sundays at 10 p.m. ET on TLC, offering viewers a glimpse into the lives of Janelle, Christine, and Meri as they navigate their new normal without Kody and Robyn. The absence of Kody’s vocal presence is expected to shift the show’s narrative focus, perhaps allowing the remaining women to emerge more independently than before.
As fans adjust to this significant change in the series, it remains to be seen how the storylines will evolve and what new dynamics will emerge among the remaining cast members. Janelle’s reflections may resonate with viewers who have followed the family’s journey over the years, and her hopes for the future may signal a new chapter in their lives.