Trigger warning: This article contains references to suicide and substance misuse.

More than one year after the tragic death of Garrison Brown, Sister Wives season 19 is shedding light on the events surrounding his ing. Garrison was the son of Kody Brown and his second wife, Janelle Brown. He was also loved by Kody’s wives, Meri Brown, Christine Brown, and Robyn Brown, who all raised the family’s eighteen children together. Although Garrison was featured often on Sister Wives throughout his youth, his appearances grew less frequent as his relationship with Kody became strained. Following Janelle and Kody’s divorce, her adult sons were largely absent from the show.

Garrison died by suicide on March 5, 2024. In the face of such a devastating loss, it was unclear whether Sister Wives would ever broach the topic of his ing. Recent seasons have focused less on the Brown children and more on the crumbling relationships between the adults amid Kody’s divorces from Janelle, Meri, and Christine. Garrison’s ing had such a profound impact on the family it needed to be addressed. As brutal as Sister Wives season 19, episode 2,3 was to watch it was also the best tribute to a life gone too soon.

The Sister Wives Cast Each Revisited The Moment They Found Out About Garrison’s ing

They Shared The Devastating Reality Of Their Loss

While Sister Wives previews hinted Garrison’s death would be discussed this season, the way it played out was even more gut-wrenching than expected. Cameras captured Meri while taping an interview segment, receiving several phone calls from Kody. Although she ignored his calls and tried to focus on her interview, Kody told her it was an emergency. Once Meri finally answered the phone, she remained on-screen for a brief moment, with viewers knowing all too well the horrible news that was on the other end.

One by one, Garrison’s loved ones detailed how they found out about his ing. This drove home how his loss completely upended the family’s sense of normalcy. While the Browns are public figures whose lives are televised, they’re also a loving family who experienced the unthinkable. The story was told chronologically and honestly, with each family member’s raw emotions on display.

Meri spoke about driving to be by Kody’s side and bringing food to Janelle.

The incident also gave insight into the dynamics within the fractured family. Meri spoke about driving to be by Kody’s side and bringing food to Janelle. Kody spoke of consoling his children, even those with whom he had strained relationships. Kody and Janelle later discussed making arrangements for their son together. Considering the past several seasons of Sister Wives have revolved around the chaos within the family, one of the few bright parts of the episode was how the family came together in the face of such unimaginable loss.

Garrison’s Parents & Siblings Honored His Memory Beautifully

The Family Spoke Lovingly About Him

While Sister Wives walked viewers through the circumstances surrounding Garrison’s death, it also emphasized the wonderful impact his life had on his loved ones. Gabriel Brown, who was incredibly close to his brother, described him as an extremely genuine person who “always felt a lot deeper than he expressed.” He explained that Garrison “brought an air of ease” that made everyone around him feel comfortable, which he poignantly called “the real mark of a gentleman.”

Christine recounted Garrison’s love of fire, traveling, and stars. Her daughter, Mykelti Padron, spoke about Garrison’s humor, while Mykelti’s husband, Tony Padron, ed Garrison’s friendliness. Throughout the episode, photographs showed how full Garrison's life was. The family’s words about their beloved son and brother perfectly described how one-of-a-kind he was, and even in the middle of such a large family, he had a captivating presence that could never be replaced.

The Tragedy Encouraged Honest Conversations About Mental Health

The Browns Are Raising Awareness By Sharing Their Painful Story

The entire Brown family was honest as they recounted Garrison’s struggles. Christine itted the family “all knew that he was sad.” Janelle revealed that she and her other sons would “tag team” to keep tabs on Garrison. She also opened up about his struggle with alcohol, explaining that it had started during COVID and escalated in the year before his death. Her candor is notable not only because of the generally taboo nature of substance misuse but also because the Brown family’s religion prohibited alcohol.

The family’s willingness to discuss Garrison’s battles helps remove the secrecy surrounding mental health. Janelle explained that the tragedy forced her to “have more frank conversations about mental health.” She was aware of the trauma her other children were experiencing and made sure they had the resources necessary to cope. Janelle also prioritized her health and healing. It was important for her to stay busy, and she was thankful her move to North Carolina provided a fresh start away from the painful memories.

Sister Wives’ discussion of Garrison’s death certainly wasn’t easy to watch, but it was incredibly powerful. It put a face on the tragedy and showed the devastating effect suicide can have on a family. The discussion will undoubtedly help others who are struggling. It also shows the hole Garrison’s ing left in his family, and while it can't be filled, speaking honestly and lovingly about his memory will be crucial to their healing.

Sister Wives airs Sunday at 10 p.m. EDT on TLC