Lucille Barilla | Showbiz Cheat Sheet Writer

Phil Donahue: ‘Love, Listening and Lust’ Secret to 44 Year Marriage to Marlo Thomas

Lucille Barilla — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 18:03:20 +0000

Phil Donahue and Marlo Thomas had one of the longest-lasting marriages in Hollywood. After 44 years wed and almost 47 as a couple, the late celebrity talk show host and Thomas revealed that they had a three word secret to keeping their love alive.

The three ‘Ls’ were the secret of marital bliss for Phil Donahue and Marlo Thomas

In a May 2023 interview with People Magazine, celebrating her 43rd anniversary, Marlo Thomas said the three Ls were her and Phil Donahue’s secret to marital bliss: “love, listening, and lust.”

“I call it the three L’s. Love, listening, and lust,” Thomas shared. “Those are the three L’s.”

She continued, “You have to listen, and then you’ll know what the other person is really thinking and going through. You have to love each other. And without lust, you don’t have anything.”

Thomas elaborated further on her theory in an interview with E! News, “I’d rather be making love or having a good sweet conversation, or snuggle up and watch television. So you need to remind yourself of the love you have for the other person.”

She continued, “And the lust is—I mean, it’s fun to say it, but it really is an important part of your marriage. It’s important when people talk about date nights. It’s to remember that there’s a wonderful personal, physical relationship that you have with your spouse that you don’t have with anybody else on earth.”

How did Phil Donahue and Marlo Thomas meet?

Phil Donahue and Marlo Thomas met when she was a guest on his daytime talk show in 1977. In a 2015 Facebook post, Thomas shared her version of the events of that fateful day.

“Phil and I met on his talk show, Donahue, in 1977. It was instant chemistry. He flirted, I giggled, and his TV audience watched us fall in love,” she wrote.

In a book the couple wrote about marriage, What Makes a Marriage Last, Thomas compared their first meeting to a shampoo commercial, “where everything suddenly goes into slow motion,” as reported by E! News. In 1980, they married in front of 35 guests.

“You have to listen to each other,” Thomas told E! News about the couple’s marriage. “It took me about 10 years to figure out that mostly what Phil wanted from me were not solutions, which I was too happy to give.”

She continued, “In fact, he just wanted someone to hear what he had to say.” Thomas explained that Donahue told her, “I just want you to listen.’ I said, ‘Wow, well, that’s easy.'”

How did Phil Donahue revolutionize the talk show industry?

Phil Donahue revolutionized the talk show industry by allowing audience participation with guests. Prior, talk shows were just about the host and the guests interacting with each other.

On Donahue, which ran for 29 years, the journalist was fearless in pushing the buttons of his guests and audience members. He was known for leaning into hot topics other talk shows wouldn’t touch, including discussions with spiritual leaders, doctors, homemakers, activists, entertainers, or politicians.

Phil Donahue was 88 years old at the time of his death. He is survived by Marlo Thomas and children Michael, Kevin, Daniel, Mary Rose, and the late James.

‘Welcome to Plathville’s’ Ethan Plath: An Emotional Prisoner of Ex-Wife Olivia and Mom Kim

Lucille Barilla — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 16:52:41 +0000

Welcome to Plathville centered its drama around family matriarch Kim Plath and daughter-in-law Olivia Plath. Portrayed as the TLC series’ villains, their strained relationship divided the conservative family and broke Ethan Plath’s heart. Did the two women Ethan loved most keep him an emotional prisoner? Will he ever fully be out from under their control?

Ethan Plath appears to be the most emotionally stunted of the Plath kids

Throughout six seasons of TLC’s Welcome to Plathville, Ethan Plath has been at the center of an emotional rollercoaster between his mom, Kim, and wife, Olivia. The two women could not get along, and there’s a good reason why.

Both Olivia and Kim were more similar than they realized. Strong-willed, determined, and challenging, the women’s ultimate prize was Ethan, the oldest son of the Plath family.

However, as Ethan appeared to mature into his relationship with Olivia, it wasn’t enough to undo years of Kim’s programming. That means that Ethan appeared trained to respect his parent’s wishes as the oldest son.

Kim held on to her children, with ex-Barry along for the ride. She determined the rules of their ultra-restrictive lifestyle and appeared to stunt her children’s emotional growth.

Therefore, when Ethan married Olivia, he appeared confused by all the freedom she wanted them to have. Also raised conservatively, Olivia wanted to break free from the shackles of her youth, and her headstrong demeanor thrilled and comforted Ethan because it was so similar to that of his mother, Kim.

Ethan remained stunted as an adult because he allowed both women to lead him throughout life. This is why he continued to fight Olivia against a divorce, thinking their problems could be fixed, but the damage was done and both Kim and Olivia were to blame.

What did Kim Plath and Olivia Plath do to stunt Ethan Plath’s growth on ‘Welcome to Plathville?’

Olivia Plath and Kim Plath during separate confessionals for TLC’s ‘Welcome to Plathville’ | TLC

Throughout six seasons of Welcome to Plathville, Ethan Plath appeared to be in the unenviable position of choosing between his wife, Olivia, and his family. Both women stood their ground regarding certain aspects of Ethan’s life, and he rarely challenged either. Kim and Olivia played their cards with Ethan to make him believe that he was making his own choices when, in fact, they were being made for him.

The strong-willed women didn’t let Ethan stand on his own two feet. This tactic eventually led Ethan to be indecisive and turn back to some of the more traditional aspects he had learned from Kim instead of growing into the man he had become with Olivia.

For example, Olivia and Ethan purchased a house away from the original Plath homestead, only to have Kim and Barry buy a home closer to their family. To put further distance between them, Olivia and Ethan moved to Florida, but he continued to visit his Georgia family while Olivia remained estranged from her parents.

Ethan wanted to trust his parents, but Olivia’s distrust of them left him conflicted. In turn, Kim manipulated Ethan into believing Olivia’s feelings were wrong, leaving Ethan in the middle with nowhere to turn.

So, who can Ethan trust on ‘Welcome to Plathville?’

During Season 6 of Welcome to Plathville, Ethan must rely on himself to find out who he is without his life’s two most controlling elements. Kim remains a fringe element while his divorce from Olivia continues.

However, will Ethan be over Olivia despite trying to put himself out in the dating world again? She explained she wouldn’t rule out a reconciliation in the future if she continues to string him along with mixed signals during the extended trailer for Welcome To Plathville season 6.

Meanwhile, as Kim tries to reconcile with Ethan, will there be strings attached to their union? Ethan has wanted to trust in his mother despite her failures as a parent. However, will she become the mother he needs while he navigates this trying life experience, or will Kim fail Ethan once again?

Welcome to Plathville airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. EST on TLC.

Prince Harry’s ‘Dreadfully Sad’ Relationship With Prince William Could Go on For Years: Report

Lucille Barilla — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:38:47 +0000

Since leaving his role as a senior royal, Prince Harry‘s estrangement from the royal family has widened. His once close relationship with Prince William, appears to have become irreparable. A new report calls the dissolution of trust between the brothers “dreadfully sad” as Harry reaches a milestone life moment.

Prince Harry faces 40 without the royal family to celebrate this milestone birthday

A new report by The Sunday Times reveals that Prince Harry’s rift with the royal family continues as he approaches his 40th birthday. The report claims that he has a “dreadfully sad” relationship with his brother, Prince William.

The editorial claims Prince William has no room for Harry and his current drama. William’s key focus has been on the health of his wife, Kate Middleton, their three children, and his work for the crown. William has taken on even more work since his father, King Charles’ and Kate Middleton were both diagnosed with cancer.

The Sunday Times reports that William is “unlikely to forgive Harry any time soon for his slights against Kate in Spare. Among them the suggestion she was cold toward Meghan. Those close to William say his brother rarely comes up in conversation.”

A friend tells The Times, “This year, his focus has very much been on his wife, his children, and his father. His brother isn’t really something that’s discussed.” A separate source close to both Harry and William says of their relationship, “They are estranged, which is dreadfully sad.”

Will there ever be a reconciliation between Prince Harry and Prince William?

Prince Harry and Prince William photographed in 2021 | Dominic Lipinski/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

The Sunday Times reports that Prince Harry and Prince William’s relationship may be irreparable. The brothers may never fully reconcile.

Therefore, their estrangement could go on for years. This decision could continue to leave Prince Harry out in the cold while the royal family evolves without him.

Since Queen Elizabeth’s death in September 2022, the royals appeared to have shifted to less traditional roles. Prince Harry was searching for this type of royal revolution when he and Meghan Markle wanted to carve out a “progressive new role” within the family in a 2020 Instagram post.

Instead, Harry and Meghan spent the better part of the first two years of their exile speaking poorly about the institution instead of being a remaining part of a family that appears to have shifted its priorities. Today, there is no going back to how things were between Harry, William, and other members of the House of Windsor.

The Sunday Times claims that William has made it clear that when he ascends to the United Kingdom’s king throne, he wants the experience to “look and feel different.” William’s friends shared their thoughts with the publication, saying that William has decided that he does not want Harry at his coronation, a major life decision that could put a period on their relationship thereafter.

How would Princess Diana have reacted to her sons’ estrangement?

Princess Diana historically had issues with the royal family’s more traditional aspects. However, as the mother of the future king, she was allowed a little leeway when it came to opening up a new world to her sons that was traditionally not given to royal children.

She raised William and Harry to remain close to one another, as they were the monarchy’s future. Diana likely hoped her sons would continue the small steps she had taken to make the royal family more accessible to their subjects.

In fact, in an ITN interview when William was just three-years-old and Harry, one, Diana discussed the distinct differences between her sons. She already noted that they appeared to be their own individuals.

According to a royal expert, Princess Diana would have intervened between her sons and sorted out their issues. Jennie Bond told GB News, per The Mirror, “I think she’d be distraught that the boys are still feuding. But I think somehow she’d have got them together and just sorted it all out.”

Prince Harry turns 40 on Sept. 15, 2024.

‘Sister Wives’ Season 19’s Red Flags Tease Show’s End

Lucille Barilla — Sat, 17 Aug 2024 14:42:10 +0000

Season 19‘s trailer teases conflict, sadness, and uncertainty for the cast of TLC’s Sister Wives. However, there are clear reasons pointing to the end of the series, and it’s obvious to the show’s loyal viewers.

Here is the reason ‘Sister Wives’ may take its last bow after Season 19

The giant red flag of Season 19 of Sister Wives is the show jumping into present-day events. The series typically airs content from well over a year prior, and this season will be no exception.

The show will try to keep viewers informed about what’s happening within the Brown family. However, Garrison Brown’s death in March 2024 forced the show to speed up its timeline.

Therefore, the series will focus on how Garrison’s death has affected the former polygamist family. It will depict how Kody, Meri, Janelle, Christine, and Robyn Brown handled the news.

The WB Discovery press site writes, “This season, the family faces the devastating passing of Janelle and Kody’s son, Garrison Brown. Through the heartbreaking pain, the family navigates this incredible tragedy and comes together to mourn and celebrate his life.”

However, if the show ends with present-day events, and Meri, Christine, and Janelle have all set up their own lives without Kody and Robyn, what’s left to say about their family, who are now just people who used to be married?

‘Sister Wives’ viewers on the fence about the show’s cancellation

‘Sister Wives’ key art featuring Meri, Janelle, Christine, Kody, and Robyn Brown | TLC

In a Reddit post dedicated to Sister Wives, viewers weighed in on the newest installment of the TLC series. Is this the end of the long-running reality television series?

“I don’t entirely trust them. The lack of branding the new season as a ‘series finale’ speaks volumes. I feel like TLC and certain family members may try to milk it for all its worth, despite the personal tragedies,” wrote one viewer.

A second claimed, “I can’t see why they are still going. Kody is now in a monogamous marriage. The whole sister wives thing no longer exists. Do people even tune in to watch a boring couple of unpleasant people?”

“People are amped for what will likely be a mostly boring season. Doesn’t matter. It’s only about ratings and money. Y’all are bonkers for thinking TLC will cancel the show when it’s way more successful than it was for most of its’ run,” wrote a third fan.

Finally, a fourth viewer wrote, “They are filming Season 20. That is the last season with the current contract they have with TLC. They should call it a wrap from there and maybe do specials every month to give updates with the true family members. I would like to see that.”

Changes within the Brown family reflect the season’s conflict

Over the past several years, the Brown family has undergone many changes. Notably, Kody Brown is a monogamist with wife Robyn.

His former wives, Meri, Christine, and Janelle, live separately. However, Season 19 appears to show some solid resolution between the women, a second red flag that could signal the series’ end.

In the trailer, Meri states she refuses to be a member of the “ex-wives club” but won’t side with Kody and Robyn either. This leaves her to freely have relationships with people who won’t judge her for her past participation in the polygamist clan.

However, in one scene, Meri is seen hugging Christine. In another, Janelle shares her enthusiasm for Meri’s move away from Kody and Robyn.

But it may not all be rosy for the Brown clan, as Meri appeals to their former church, the Apostolic United Brethren, for an official release from her marriage to Kody, a third and final red flag. She and Kody face off about their relationship in a separate scene.

Kody digs in his heels because in the AUB, the more wives a man has, the more he gets to head his own kingdom, where his wives are tied to him for eternity. By asking for a spiritual release from their marriage, Kody can no longer claim Meri in the afterlife.

It’s a kick in the pants for Kody, who remains spiritually tied to Christine and Janelle. However, since Christine is legally wed to David Wooley, she is no longer tied to Kody in the eyes of their church. That leaves Janelle to release herself from Kody, which would leave him unable to fulfill this spiritual element of his religion.

Sister Wives returns to TLC on Sunday, September 15. The series airs at 10 p.m.

Kate Middleton ‘Unwell’ Longer Than Previously Believed as Seriously Ill Princess Continues to Battle Cancer: Report

Lucille Barilla — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 14:29:07 +0000

Kate Middleton has reportedly been “unwell” longer than previously believed. A new report claims that although the Princess of Wales was hospitalized in January 2024. It revealed she had cancer in March. However, her health problems were reportedly a struggle way before an operation revealed she had the disease.

How long has Kate Middleton been ill? A new report claims longer than believed

The Daily Mail‘s Rebecca English penned an editorial breaking down the timeframe of Kate Middleton’s illness and recovery. She noted that prior to the princess’s January surgery, she had likely been unwell for some time.

English writes, “What most will not appreciate is that Catherine had been unwell for some time in the run-up to her initial abdominal surgery in January (further details of which have not yet been made public by Kensington Palace). It was only after that ‘planned’ operation, of course, which left her in hospital for two weeks, that her cancer was discovered.”

Kate reportedly “hid” her suffering from friends and family, but those closest to her reportedly knew the toll it had taken on her life. “I don’t think people realize how much she has gone through behind the scenes and for how long, far longer than anyone actually appreciates,” English writes after speaking to a close friend of the Princess of Wales.

However, English cites a source calling Kate “an incredibly strong woman, but she has been through the wars. Her treatment and recovery is still a priority and will be ongoing for some time to come. For anyone, there is a lot of physical recovery after treatment finishes. It’s not like flipping a switch.”

Kate Middleton’s illness has ‘strengthened’ her and Prince William’s relationship

Kate Middleton and Prince William’s bond has been strengthened after her health crisis | Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images

The experience of navigating Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis as a family has “strengthened” her and Prince William’s relationship, reports Rebecca English of The Daily Mail. William has been by his wife’s side throughout her hospitalization, recovery, and return to public life.

English quotes a “well-placed source” who claims, “It’s strengthened them as a unit. They’ve always been a team, and what they have been through this year has only cemented that.”

Early in Kate’s illness, William canceled several vital engagements, including a scheduled appearance at a Windsor Castle memorial service for his godfather, the late King Constantine of Greece. He didn’t return to public life until around a month after she returned home to Adelaide Cottage to recuperate alongside their three children Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

The couple laid low throughout Kate’s initial recovery. William did speak of his wife when asked about her recovery but did not disclose any information about her illness.

Therefore, in March, Kate took the reins of her narrative and dispelled the many rumors surrounding her health by releasing a video. The princess spoke of her illness, treatment, and a potential return to royal duties without confirming an actual date.

So when will Kate Middleton return to work full-time?

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In January 2024, per Kate Middleton’s medical diagnosis, the palace shared she would return to work after Easter. However, that timeline has changed several times since that initial announcement.

The timeline shifted again in March when Kate released an Instagram video. She said, “My work has always brought me a deep sense of joy, and I look forward to being back when I am able. But for now, I must focus on making a full recovery.”

Then, in June, she shared another message on Instagram. Kate said her cancer treatment was ongoing.

It read, “I am learning how to be patient, especially with uncertainty. Taking each day as it comes, listening to my body, and allowing myself to take this much-needed time to heal,” the statement concluded.

Thus far, Kate Middleton has remained on a modified work schedule. The palace has not announced when she will return to full-time duties. She is currently on holiday with members of the royal family in Scotland.

Kate Middleton’s ‘Life Altering’ Cancer Recovery Signals Monarchy Power Shift

Lucille Barilla — Thu, 15 Aug 2024 12:32:07 +0000

In June, Kate Middleton announced she would continue cancer treatment three months after first announcing she had the disease. A royal reporter believes the princess has entered into a “life-altering” phase of life, leaving the monarchy front line to adapt.

It’s been eight months since Kate Middleton was diagnosed with cancer

In January 2024, Kate Middleton had scheduled abdominal surgery that detected cancer in her body. The Princess of Wales spent weeks in the hospital. Followed by a monitored recovery at the Adelaide Cottage home she shares with Prince William.

The Daily Beast royal writer Tom Sykes cites a source who says Kate and William are prioritizing family time this summer. “They made a clear and conscious decision to take time out as a family. Seeing them both looking so happy and relaxed with each other and so comfortable in each other’s company tells you a lot about where they are.”

The source added, “There is still nothing in her diary. My understanding is that people are going to have to get used to seeing a lot less of Kate. Like a lot of people who have a brush with mortality, Kate is going to prioritize the things that matter to her from now on. In her case, that means her kids.”

Subsequently, News.com.au reporter Daniela Elser added that Kate’s recovery plan is “life-altering.” This new life outlook could signal a power shift that could change the monarchy’s future.

Elser writes, “While King Charles has been seen far more regularly this year than this daughter-in-law, the royal friend offers a less cheery view, saying ‘he is still unwell. It is being fantastically well managed to give the impression that everything is fine.'”

She continued, “That, in turn, could have major, permanently life-altering consequences for Kate and her kids.” So what is Kate to do when she must continue her role and balance her health simultaneously?

The crown needs her, so what is Kate to do?

As King Charles reduced his workload, Princess Anne recovered from an accident, and Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, and Prince Andrew remain non-working royals, the royal front line dwindled to a handful of people. There’s been less front-and-center royals in recent months.

Therefore, as the crown needs her more than ever and Kate Middleton takes on less work, what does that mean for her role within the institution? Elser writes that this fall, Kate may slowly take on more roles for the royal family, such as her appearance at Trooping the Color in June. But for the moment, her diary remains empty as she joins the royal family for their yearly Scotland holiday.

After her kids return to school full-time, Kate may alter her schedule. However, her doctors’ treatment plan is unclear, so she may not be front-and-center just yet.

Kate Middleton’s cancer battle more difficult than publicly known

Kate Middleton in a purple suit | Samir Hussein/WireImage

The Daily Beast cites a source close to Kate Middleton and Prince William who claims that the princesses’ cancer battle has been more difficult than publicly known. He says life behind the scenes at the House of Windsor has been challenging for the Prince and Princess of Wales.

“I don’t think people realize how much she has gone through behind the scenes and for how long, far longer than anyone appreciates. She’s an incredibly strong woman, but she really has been through the wars. Her treatment and recovery is still a priority and will be ongoing for some time to come,” the source explains.

They concluded that the most important factor for the Waleses is that Kate finishes her treatment. Perhaps then, she can return to work slowly in the fall rather than overdoing it.

Currently, Kate Middleton is with the royal family at Balmoral in Scotland. She is vacationing there with Prince William and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

Kate Middleton’s ‘Comfort Blanket’ Top: The Secret Reason She Wears the Same Style Again and Again

Lucille Barilla — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 16:39:03 +0000

In a video congratulating Team Britain in the 2024 Olympics, Kate Middleton wore her “comfort blanket” top. She wears this style repeatedly, and there’s a secret reason why.

Kate Middleton relies on this ‘comfort blanket’ outfit

The Princess of Wales depends upon a style of top that a fashion stylist calls her “comfort blanket.” Kate Middleton pulls it out when she needs to project an air of accessibility.

Clemmie Fieldsend, fashion editor for The Sun, shared her thoughts regarding the nautical-style shirt Kate typically wears when she wants to make a point. The white shirt with black stripes is a style Kate returns to repeatedly.

“Catherine chose a style that she has worn several times, including in 2013 at a Sports, while shopping in Anglesey 2013, and at Houghton Horse Trials in 2016,” Fieldsend revealed.

Fieldsend claims the style is a “comfort blanket” for the Princess of Wales. “It’s become a uniform for her, which means when she wears it, she’ll instantly feel confident and at ease, especially through difficult times,” noting that the designer is a “British consistent.”

Kate Middleton has made a striped top a fashion staple since marrying Prince William

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Kate Middleton married into the royal family in 2011. She brought a fashion sensibility to the clan not seen since the days of Princess Diana, Prince William’s mother.

However, while Diana was regularly seen in the latest designer fashions, Kate has stuck to sensible outfits typically accessible to royal followers. Her regular styles allow her to be approachable and fit into her role as a mom on the go to three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

Clemmie Fieldsend said that Kate has worn her Ralph Lauren ‘Tori’ Breton striped top a number of times. Fieldsend claims that “the striped stable is hugely versatile, inoffensive, and therefore makes her more relatable.”

Kate’s style has always been relatable. She and Prince William have forgone the formalities of the royal family’s past for a more modern take on their roles within the House of Windsor. While there are distinct differences between the royal family and their subjects, William and Kate have tried to appear as other young parents.

This attempt to remain accessible has greatly improved their popularity within the royal family. Currently, William and Kate remain more popular with the public than King Charles.

Kate Middleton wore the same style top the day she announced her cancer diagnosis

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Kate Middleton wore a white and black striped long-sleeved top the day she announced her cancer diagnosis to the world. Clemmie Fieldsend continued, “In March of this year, when Kate bravely revealed she was undergoing treatment for cancer, she wore a Breton jumper from designer British brand Erdem.”

The style again showed that while Kate could have chosen to go a formal route, she opted for a more relatable message. The princess was seated on a bench at Windsor Castle when she recorded the announcement.

Behind the Princess of Wales was a field of daffodils—which signify a fight against cancer. This deliberate choice delivered another message to those fighting and recovering from the disease.

Kate said in a video message posted in March 2024, “In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. The surgery was successful. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. My medical team, therefore, advised that I should undergo a course of preventative chemotherapy, and I am now in the early stages of that treatment.

“This, of course, came as a huge shock, and William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family,” she continued.

As per a June 2024 Instagram update, Kate Middleton remains in cancer treatment. She is currently on a summer holiday with the royal family in Scotland.

‘Sister Wives’ Robyn Brown: The ‘Idiot That Got Left Behind’ During Season 19

Lucille Barilla — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 15:02:52 +0000

Sister Wives star Robyn Brown appears to be working through some deep issues in the show’s Season 19 trailer. She calls herself the “idiot that got left behind” as Meri, Janelle, and Christine Brown create new lives outside of their polygamist union with Kody Brown. Robyn’s statement proves she’s still resentful of their family’s breakdown, but is she revealing more than she’s letting on?

Robyn Brown calls herself an ‘idiot’ in an emotionally charged confessional

Robyn Brown may have been the last of Kody Brown’s wives. But she became an integral part of the family’s breakdown after joining their polygamist clan. Kody appeared to find favor with her most and spent most of his time with her and her children, neglecting his longstanding relationships with Meri, Janelle, and Christine Brown.

Throughout the series, Robyn has maintained she wanted sister wives. But appeared to do nothing to foster relationships with the other women in Kody’s life. The only woman Robyn stayed close to was Meri, eventually pushing her out as Kody’s legal wife in 2014.

During Season 19, it appears Robyn is peripheral to the drama surrounding the Brown family. However, she does make statements that try to integrate herself front and center as the “family scapegoat,” a term she used to describe herself in 2022.

In the official TLC trailer for Season 19, she confesses, “This is not the way it was supposed to go. I feel like the idiot who got left behind.”

Is Kody and Robyn’s Season 19 relationship drama real or fake?

Kody and Robyn Brown are living in monogamy. Outwardly, they appear to be happy.

However, no one knows what happens behind closed doors. Robyn and Kody added some drama to their relationship and how it has reportedly changed in the new Season 19 trailer.

The couple are filmed outside their home, wearing winter clothing and discussing their relationship. It’s difficult to tell if this conversation contains the truth or is manufactured to create a storyline.

“I’m having a hard time. I’m losing respect for you,” Robyn tells Kody as they stand in the snow. He responds, “Robyn, I can’t even get it straight with you now.”

However, in early 2023, he said during an installment of the Sister Wives: One-on-One episodes that if Robyn wanted him to take another wife, he likely wouldn’t. “No, I wouldn’t be interested. Because I would have to tell that woman, ‘I will never love you as much as I love her.’ Now I know better,” Kody explained.

Robyn Brown painted herself in a corner as the most hated woman in the Brown family

‘Sister Wives’ key art featuring Meri, Janelle, Christine, Kody, and Robyn Brown | TLC

Although Robyn Brown maintained she wanted herself and her children to remain part of a big, plural family, she never achieved that goal. She was an outsider, she claims, as were her children and became the most hated woman in their clan.

During Season 18, Robyn claimed, “From my perspective, Kody did not choose us. My kids and I wanted to be a part of this family. And wanted to be accepted and loved by everyone.”

She continued, “When we were blending families years ago, there was a lot of trouble. I didn’t feel like I had a lot of support from the other parents to do this blending.”

However, many Brown family members contradicted Robyn’s statements. Gwendlyn Brown, Christine, and Kody Brown’s daughter, shared her thoughts in a YouTube video. Gwendlyn said, “She states that she wants us to be this big happy family, but in my experience, that’s not true.”

Janelle’s son, Garrison Brown, also said in a Season 18 clip that Robyn used “COVID-19 to make Dad exclusive and then turned herself into the victim, saying it’s our fault. Robyn’s mad that she can’t have this effect on our lives anymore because we just don’t care anymore.”

In turn, Kody defended Robyn in the Sister Wives One-on-One episodes. He said, “There is a shift of blame toward Robyn that got to the point where it makes me so angry. That I was getting to the point that if you had a complaint about her, I’d be like, ‘shut up, I will punch you in the mouth.'”

Season 19 of Sister Wives debuts on TLC on September 15 at 10 p.m. EST.

‘Sister Wives’ Meri Brown Calls ‘Bulls***’ on Kody Brown’s ‘Decency’ in Explosive Season 19 Trailer

Lucille Barilla — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 12:40:43 +0000

One year after Kody Brown and Meri Brown ended their marriage in front of TLC’s cameras, she’s calling “bull****” on his “decency” in an explosive new trailer for Sister Wives, Season 19. The reality star confronted her ex-husband for his actions throughout their marriage, and is seen taking steps to break away from her family for good.

Meri and Kody Brown’s ‘Sister Wives’ showdown is a highlight of Season 19’s trailer

On August 13, TLC released the latest season trailer for Season 19 of Sister Wives. Viewers will see Meri Brown verbally dress down Kody Brown in a sit-down showdown.

For 18 seasons, viewers watched as Kody neglected Meri and their marriage. Although he appeared loving toward her in the series’ first seasons, that affection deteriorated.

Meri was a peripheral character on the show. She was devoted to Kody and their polygamist clan but never received anything in return for her loyalty. Now, she faces off with Kody, each sharing their truth before formally dissolving their union.

In a new clip, Meri confesses, “Kody and I are done. Our marriage is over.”

Her statement follows a clip of the two former spouses facing off. Meri states, “I’m not your wife anymore.” He responds with, “It’s not divorce that sucks, it’s marrying the wrong person.”

Meri tells TLC’s cameras, “What sucks is marrying the wrong person and then not having the decency to tell her until 32 years later.” The clip then cut back to the couple’s altercation, with Meri saying, “I didn’t know we were having a fight here.”

Kody responds, “It’s confusing from day one,” to which Meri responds, “Bull ****. That is so not fair to me. I would have rather you had told me, Kody, years ago.” He, in turn, blames Meri for his inability to love her.

Meri and Kody Brown’s altercation comes after Season 18 marriage bombshell

At the close of Season 18, fans saw a sit down between Meri, Robyn, and Kody Brown. Meri was the last sister wife in the clan after Christine and Janelle Brown’s exits.

In Part 2 of the season’s one-on-one episodes, Christine revealed Kody melted his original wedding ring from Meri and saved the gold and diamonds after his relationship with Robyn began. Christine spilled, “Well, Meri found out. She’s like, ‘Well, where’s my ring? You don’t wear it anymore.’”

She continued, “He’s like, ‘I melted it down.’ Just like that. He’s like, ‘I don’t want Meri to have control over me and power over me anymore.’”

Meri was furious that Christine shared that intimate detail of her and Kody’s relationship. “That was a symbol! That was a sign of our marriage and commitment, and he melted it down!” Meri furiously said of the event occurred years before her 2015 catfishing incident.

“Who’s to say that he didn’t just melt down our entire relationship in that moment? Symbolically, that’s what he did to me. It was a very, very painful situation.”

‘Sister Wives’ Meri Brown is at the center of the first half of Season 19

‘Sister Wives’ Meri Brown takes center stage during Season 19 trailer | TLC

Season 19 begins in early 2023, placing the timeline when Meri and Kody announce on Instagram their marriage was over. Although the season’s trailer touched on Kody’s insistence on remaining married to Janelle, Christine’s relationship with David Wooley, and Robyn’s continued confusion about her marital situation, Meri appears to finally be getting her moment in the spotlight.

As Kody’s first legal wife, Meri stayed in the shadows for years. This season, she gets her say about living as part of Kody’s polygamist family.

Meri is seen sharing details of her move to Utah with Robyn’s youngest children, Solomon and Ariella, hugging Christine and interacting with Janelle. Meri’s full-circle moment has been far too long in the making. Let’s hope TLC finally gives her the justice she deserves.

Sister Wives Season 19 debuts beginning Sunday, Sept. 15 at 10 p.m. EST on TLC.

‘Welcome to Plathville’: TLC’s Shattered Show Could be Revived By 1 Unlikely Villain

Lucille Barilla — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 23:10:00 +0000

TLC‘s Welcome to Plathville entered the network’s lineup in 2019. It was a show about a supersized family who believed in a fundamentalist way of life and didn’t allow their children to partake in commonplace activities such as watching television, drinking soda, and having friends outside of their religious sect. Today, the family has been irrevocably broken, their core beliefs shattered, and trust issues threaten each of their relationships. However, TLC shattered show could be revived by one unlikely villain.

‘Welcome to Plathville’ once had exciting storylines; now it’s just boring

The Plath family was headed by Kim and Barry Plath. Their children are Ethan, Hosanna, Micah, Moriah, Lydia, Isaac, Amber, Cassia and Mercy.

The family’s belief system dominated every aspect of their lives. Therefore, when Ethan and his girlfriend Olivia married, it was their chance to break away from their respective clans and live the life they chose.

Following this, Moriah and Micah also realized that there was a great, big world outside of their small Georgia town. They followed Ethan and Olivia’s lead, leaving home at a young age to experience the ups and downs of life.

However, the family’s pull on its children emotionally affected their lives. Although this parenting method caused deep family drama and division, it remained the only interesting aspect of the series.

Within six seasons, the Plath family continues to implode. Kim and Barry, the parents, are divorcing, and Ethan and Olivia are also divorced.

Thus far this season, Ethan won’t let Olivia go while she lives her best life outside of their marriage. Kim resides on a houseboat, Barry is into health and fitness, and Micah moved across the country from California to Florida to live with a woman who refuses to be identified.

So what is Welcome to Plathville about today? Nothing but a bunch of peripheral characters who, together, make for something other than an exciting story. But that could change this season as one unlikely villain could revitalize the series.

Ethan Plath could become the villain ‘Welcome to Plathville’ needs to keep it interesting

As Welcome to Plathville progresses, Ethan Plath’s behavior continues to take a dark turn. Although he projected an air of progressive behavior in his marriage to Olivia Plath, he has since returned to his traditional beliefs.

However, it took him a long time to truly unite with Olivia, so their breakup appeared to come out of left field. But did it?

Ethan has a history of pointing fingers at others rather than taking ownership of his personal problems. Throughout Welcome to Plathville, he blames his parents for the problems in his marriage to Olivia.

Then, as the couple continued to move around to escape their issues, Ethan began to blame Olivia for their marriage breakdown. He demonized her for wanting to change and grow rather than fall into the comfortable pattern of his youth.

“Between me or your family, you were going to pick your family,” Olivia claimed. Ethan shot back, “That’s because you made me choose.”

Ethan reuniting with his mother after years of not communicating due to her dislike of Olivia also lends an air of suspicious behavior. His emerging dark side could be just the adrenaline the series needs to keep it interesting for fans instead of just watching the usual family dynamics.

Which Plath family member does not appear on the TLC series?

The Plath family, including daughter Hosanna, at the 2018 wedding of Ethan and Olivia Plath | TLC

Even though Olivia Plath divorced Ethan, she remains a Welcome to Plathville cast member. In response to an Instagram post, she said, “Doing my own thing in my own way with my own people. Hoping to provide a counter perspective to all of the fundie crazy.”

All the family members continue to be involved in the series except the Plath’s eldest daughter, Hosanna. She is married to Timothy Noble, and their family website shares information about their professional work as musicians.

Us Weekly quoted Moriah, who spoke of Hosanna’s absence: “She married at a young age and moved off with her husband and started her life somewhere else. And she didn’t want to be on the show, and we were kind of all just, like, yeah, I mean, it’s her life.”

Welcome to Plathville airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. EST on TLC.