In a poignant episode of Sister Wives, Kody Brown and his family confronted the devastating loss of his son Garrison, who died by suicide at just 25 years old. This episode marked the family’s first on-screen acknowledgment of the tragedy, with Kody expressing his heartache and regret over not having had the chance to say goodbye. Reflecting on the grief that comes in waves, he shared feelings of loss and confusion about what to do next. His emotional turmoil was palpable as he confided in Robyn Brown, asking how he would navigate life moving forward, particularly through significant dates that would inevitably remind him of his son.
Kody recounted the tension that often existed between him and Garrison, particularly related to the strict COVID-19 rules the family adopted in 2020. This led to a rift between Kody and his sons, Gabriel and Garrison. The grief over Garrison’s death was compounded by feelings of regret, as Kody believed he could have had more time to mend their relationship. The episode revealed Kody’s determination to honor Garrison’s memory by returning his ashes to Wyoming, mirroring a pilgrim’s journey of love and loss.
Janelle Brown, Garrison’s mother, shared the harrowing details of how she learned about her son’s passing. She described receiving a call from Gabriel after he had found Garrison, noting that the family had previously supported Garrison through his struggles with anxiety, depression, and alcohol use, particularly exacerbated by the pandemic. Janelle expressed her uncertainty about the series of events that led to that tragic night, highlighting both her heartbreak and a sense of helplessness that many families experience during such unforeseen tragedies.
The episode also captured the raw and visceral reactions from the rest of the Brown family as they learned of Garrison’s death. Christine Brown recalled hearing the news from Janelle’s son Hunter and described how she fell to the floor upon learning the heartbreaking truth. During a family service to honor Garrison, Christine paid tribute to his childhood and incorporated a poignant movie quote that symbolized remembrance and love. Others, including Meri and Robyn, shared their shock and despair over losing Garrison, illustrating the profound impact his death had on all family members.
Maddie Brown, Kody and Janelle’s eldest daughter, reflected on the stark reality of receiving such life-altering news and recalled moments when she had tried to persuade Garrison to relocate closer to her family. Gabriel, who discovered Garrison’s body, offered a glimpse into his brother’s character, describing him as genuine and deeply caring. Despite his struggles, Garrison was remembered for his efforts to bring comfort to those around him, showcasing a side that many might not have fully understood.
Throughout this emotionally charged episode, the Brown family highlighted the complexities of grief, mental health, and the stark realities faced by those who struggle with suicidal thoughts. The episode concluded with a reminder for viewers in crisis, encouraging them to seek help through available resources. As the family begins to navigate their lives without Garrison, their shared experiences of love, loss, and hope serve as a profound testament to the bonds of family amidst heartache.
