
Sister Wives patriarch Kody Brown has long been viewed as the antagonist in his family’s dynamic. However, recent developments in season 19 suggest a nuanced perspective that might make him appear more like a victim in a specific context. Kody has openly expressed his feelings of betrayal and emotional turmoil following the departures of his original wives, Christine Brown, Janelle Brown, and Meri Brown. Despite the support from his current wife, Robyn Brown, Kody seems trapped in a cycle of hurt and confusion.
In past seasons, Kody has often been cast in the role of the villain, but his recent behavior indicates that he may not be as in control of the situation as he believes. The influence of Robyn on Kody’s relationships with his children from previous marriages has been significant, leading to a rift that has impacted his connection with them. While Kody carries the blame for the issues with his ex-wives, it is evident that his struggles with his children have largely stemmed from Robyn’s dynamics and interventions.
Kody’s Angle for the Victim Narrative on Sister Wives
Seeking Viewer Sympathy


Kody Brown’s recent experiences within the Sister Wives narrative indicate a clear push for sympathy regarding his actions and decisions. He perceives himself as the sufferer amidst the turmoil that has befallen the Brown family. Even as the season has explored difficulties faced by all family members, Kody has been vocal about his feeling of betrayal and emotional suffering. He seems to want the audience to empathize with his plight, believing he has been wronged in his relationships.
Despite his awareness of the distress experienced by his ex-wives in their marriages and their feelings of inadequacy compared to Robyn, Kody has failed to acknowledge his role in these struggles. Instead, he appears to deflect the responsibility for issues pertaining to his relationships with his older children, insisting that his children are at fault for the distance between them. This lack of personal accountability further complicates his narrative of victimhood, particularly as his approach appears to exacerbate the situation.
The Role of Robyn in Kody’s Choices
Manipulation of Emotional Dynamics

As Kody navigates his life alongside Robyn, it becomes increasingly apparent that she has played a pivotal role in shaping his decisions and behavioral patterns. Kody’s actions reflect the influence Robyn has exerted over him, often leading to contentious outcomes for both himself and the family. Her tendency to portray herself as the victim undermines the genuine complexities of Kody’s situation, often redirecting attention away from her own significant role in their familial dynamics.
Robyn’s impact on Kody’s relationship with his children has been substantial, especially given that she entered their lives when many were already adolescents. Her lack of regard for Kody’s larger family dynamics has caused further strain on his ability to communicate and bond with his 18 children. Regrettably, Robyn’s influence seems to have led Kody to sever ties with some of his children, eroding their trust in him and making reconciliation even more challenging.
Robyn as the Primary Antagonist
Kody’s Victim Status
While Kody Brown is frequently portrayed as the show’s primary antagonist, there are circumstances under which he assumes the role of a victim—particularly when it comes to Robyn’s manipulation. It’s undeniable that Kody has contributed to the emotional damage inflicted upon his children, but his relationship with Robyn has altered his perception of his entire family. She has, at times, convinced him that his other children are against him, complicating their familial relationships even further.
Robyn has emerged as a critical factor in the narrative of Sister Wives, often bending the truth in a way that absolves her of blame. As Kody becomes increasingly distanced from his older children, she insists that they are unwilling to engage with her, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. While Kody’s demands for reconciliation may be peculiar, he does show some willingness to repair broken bonds, a mindset not shared by Robyn, who seems intent on further isolating him from his family.
Sister Wives airs Sundays at 10 p.m. EST on TLC.
Source: TLC/Instagram
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