In the complex and emotionally charged world of Sister Wives, few relationships have captivated viewers as deeply as the bond between Kody Brown and Janelle. Long after their spiritual marriage ended, questions continue to swirl about whether Kody has truly let go. Recent admissions from Kody himself have reignited speculation, as he openly confessed that he still wants Janelle’s approval, leaving fans wondering if unresolved love still lingers beneath the surface.

Kody’s statement came during a reflective moment when he appeared more vulnerable than audiences are used to seeing. Known for his defensiveness and strong opinions, Kody surprised many by acknowledging that Janelle’s opinion of him still matters greatly. For viewers who have followed the unraveling of the Brown family over the years, this confession felt like a rare crack in his emotional armor, exposing feelings he has long tried to suppress.

Janelle has often been described as Kody’s most practical and independent wife. Throughout their marriage, she played the role of the logical thinker, managing finances and keeping a level head during family conflicts. That dynamic may explain why her approval still carries such weight for Kody. Unlike other relationships that ended in explosive arguments, Kody and Janelle’s separation felt quieter, more layered, and unresolved in many ways.

Fans were quick to notice that Kody’s tone shifted noticeably when discussing Janelle compared to his other ex-wives. While he has spoken openly about anger, betrayal, and disappointment elsewhere, his words about Janelle were softer, tinged with regret. This contrast has fueled theories that, emotionally, Janelle was the partner who truly understood him, even when they disagreed.

Kody’s desire for Janelle’s approval does not necessarily mean he is still “in love” in the traditional sense. However, it does suggest that her validation remains tied to his sense of self-worth. Psychologically, this is not uncommon after long-term relationships, especially ones built on shared responsibilities, children, and decades of history. Letting go of that emotional connection can be far more difficult than ending the relationship itself.

Janelle, on the other hand, appears to have moved in a very different direction. Since stepping away from the marriage, she has embraced independence and personal growth, focusing on her own goals rather than family politics. Her calm, measured approach contrasts sharply with Kody’s ongoing emotional turbulence. This imbalance may further explain why Kody still seeks her approval—she represents stability he feels he has lost.

Viewers have also pointed out that Kody’s admission comes at a time when his relationships with other family members are increasingly strained. With fractured bonds and lingering resentment, Janelle’s respect may symbolize a form of redemption for him. If he can regain her approval, perhaps he believes it would validate his actions and ease the guilt surrounding the family’s collapse.

Social media reactions have been mixed. Some fans sympathize with Kody, seeing his confession as a sign of growth and self-awareness. They argue that acknowledging lingering feelings is a step toward emotional honesty, something he has often been criticized for lacking. Others, however, remain skeptical, accusing him of romanticizing the past only now that Janelle is no longer emotionally invested.

Critics also question whether Kody’s desire for approval is less about love and more about control. Throughout Sister Wives, power dynamics have played a central role in family conflicts. From this perspective, wanting Janelle’s approval could be interpreted as an inability to accept her independence and decision to walk away on her own terms.

What makes this situation particularly compelling is Janelle’s silence. While Kody speaks openly about his feelings, Janelle has largely refrained from commenting publicly on his emotional state. Her restraint sends a powerful message, suggesting closure on her end, even as Kody continues to wrestle with unresolved emotions. That contrast only deepens the sense that they are at very different stages of healing.

As the series continues to document the aftermath of the Brown family’s fragmentation, Kody’s confession adds another layer to an already complicated narrative. It challenges viewers to reconsider simplistic labels like “villain” or “victim” and instead recognize the messy emotional realities that come with the end of long-term relationships.

Ultimately, whether Kody is still in love with Janelle may be less important than what his admission reveals about him. Wanting her approval suggests regret, longing, and perhaps a recognition of what he lost. For fans, it serves as a reminder that even in highly publicized breakups, emotional ties do not disappear overnight. In the end, Kody’s honesty may not change the past, but it undeniably reshapes how viewers understand the emotional legacy of his relationship with Janelle.