Sister Wives star reveals how the catfishing scandal affected the family

One can only imagine the embarrassment that comes with the outing of an online extramarital affair. Add to that the fact that the other half of the extramarital couple wasn’t who they claimed to be, and you’ve got the recipe for a serious shame spiral.

This is exactly what happened to Sister Wives‘ Meri Brown when she was catfished recently by a woman using a false identity, but she says her humiliation wasn’t even the worst part of the very public scandal. Instead, Meri is most hurt by swirling rumors that claim her fellow sister wives have turned their backs on her during her time of need.

“It makes me sick to hear accusations that Robyn has been anything but loving and supportive through this unfortunate situation,” Meri told People magazine.

More:Sister Wives‘ Meri Brown reveals how she really feels about Robyn

“Our relationship is strong and she has always been there for me, as have all the family,” she added. “Our family is holding strong together, as we always have and always will.”

One of the accusations Meri may be speaking of is the rumor that Robyn not only knew of Meri’s affair while it was going on and even caught wind that Meri was being catfished, but might have even triggered the scandal to gain status within the polygamist family and become Kody Brown’s No. 1 wife.

Family friend Kendra Pollard-Parra, however, told Radar Online last week that there is no truth to that particular piece of gossip.

More:Sister Wives‘ Janelle and Meri enter therapy to deal with their drama

“She [Robyn] was not aware of what was going on until Meri and the family decided to talk about it,” Pollard-Parra revealed.

Meri previously released a statement of her family’s support right after the scandal broke.

“During an emotional and vulnerable time earlier this year, I began speaking with someone online who turned out to be not who they said they were,” Meri told People. “I never met this person and I regret being drawn into this situation, but I hope because of it I can help others who find themselves in similar circumstances.

“Throughout this ordeal, my family has supported and stood by me,” she added. “I am grateful to them for their love and strength through this difficult time.”