In a revealing new interview, two women formerly married to the same man have detailed what they describe as a pattern of targeted emotional manipulation. Christine Brown and Janelle Brown, both ex-wives of Kody Brown, opened up about their experiences, alleging he systematically exploited their deepest insecurities during conflicts.
Janelle Brown explained that in disagreements, her former spouse would focus on the issues most important to her, aiming to undermine her confidence. She cited their family finances as a primary battleground. “I’ve always prioritized fiscal responsibility,” Janelle stated. “He would tell others I was solely in charge of financial decisions, knowing that twisting that responsibility into a accusation would upset me. It was a way to knock me down.”
Christine Brown echoed this sentiment, agreeing that Janelle’s concerns were used against her. “With finances, it was about making her feel less capable,” Christine said. She then described her own experience, alleging that Kody Brown weaponized her desire for physical intimacy and a romantic connection. “He would withdraw that intimacy and then suggest the problem was with me or others, never taking accountability for his own actions,” Christine claimed. “He knew what I valued most and used that knowledge against me.”
Both women expressed sadness over the alleged dynamic, with Christine noting the particular pain of having a fundamental need in a relationship used as a point of attack. “It’s profoundly sad that someone who knows you that well would choose to use it to hurt you,” she said.
The two women have since ended their marriages to Kody Brown. Christine left the plural family in late 2021, with Janelle following a year later. Another wife, Meri Brown, also separated from Kody in early 2023. This series of departures has left only one of the original wives in the marriage.
These latest allegations revisit previous tensions showcased on their television series, where disputes over family finances and personal dynamics were often central to the narrative. Janelle has previously contested the portrayal that she controlled the family budget, asserting that if she had, their shared assets would have been managed very differently.
