It was recently revealed that Sister Wives stars Meri and Kody Brown have ended their marriage of over 30 years. The reality stars have been growing apart for several years now, with the couple spending limited time together since Meri's catfishing scandal. Though both Christine and Janelle Brown have left the patriarch, Meri and Kody's relationship falling apart still came as quite a shock.

Meri has been adamant about her commitment to Kody and their polygamous marriage. Many fans have encouraged her to leave the family, believing she deserves better. Others have been outright mean to Meri, seeing their cruelty as a way to open her eyes to the state of her relationship with Kody. For years, the reality star has insisted she stay because it is the lifestyle she wants, going so far as to assure Robyn Brown she's going to "hold on" to the family with her. Now, it seems Meri and Kody's relationship is irrevocably broken, and major changes have been made, which cannot be undone.

Related: Sister Wives: A Closer Look At Meri's Infamous Catfishing Scandal

What Has Changed In Meri And Kody's Relationship?

Meri Brown from Sister Wives sitting on couch looking upset

Meri has been a faithful wife for over three decades. After she was catfished, her bond with Kody shifted. For years, the couple has struggled with trust issues, with Kody feeling he could not rely on Meri as he would in a marriage because of her experience with a catfish. During Sister Wives season 17, Kody said the marriage "unraveled" and he would not be offended if Meri were to find another man or husband. Meri, however, doubled down on her stance to remain in the marriage and wait for Kody to return to her, even though she also admitted to being frustrated by Kody and his actions toward her.

Why Meri Won't Return To Her Marriage

Meri has been vocal about her hope for a reconciliation with Kody for some time. However, upon learning that Kody was seriously considering investing in their marriage, she was surprised. Meri was equally surprised to hear Kody say he "doesn't really consider [himself] married" to her anymore. Throughout Sister Wives season 17, the reality star has been transparent about her anger at Kody for not fighting for her, even though he's willing to fight and argue about Christine. Meri has drawn parallels between her situation and Christine's, and is not happy about the similarities. Her disappointment in how her marriage unceremoniously ended is palpable.

Kody Doesn't Appreciate Meri

Kody Brown from Sister Wives up close in a confessional

Given how Meri learned her marriage to Kody ended, it's unlikely she would take him back. It is also clear that Kody does not respect Meri at all, as she claims he led her to believe reconciliation was possible. He should have been honest with her about his feelings, and saved them both some heartache. Instead, he played with Meri's feelings and didn't tell her how he couldn't move on from their problems. It is clear that Meri can't win Kody's love as long as he holds onto the past, so perhaps it would be best if she looked for a relationship where she is more respected and appreciated.

There don't seem to be many reasons for Meri and Kody to revisit their marriage. It is obvious that Kody does not care about the relationship the way Meri does. Meri has tried for years to improve their dynamic and work on their recovery from the catfishing scandal. Her efforts appear to be in vain as the relationship has fallen apart, and Kody didn't even have the courtesy to tell her so. Sister Wives fans have thought Meri was being taken advantage of, and this may just prove them right. Because of all that has happened, it seems impossible that Meri and Kody will ever get back together.

More: Sister Wives: Why Meri Brown Is Finally Over Kody & His Red Flags

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