Sister Wives' Nathan Collier: Shocking Splits & Polygamy Pursuit!

Is polygamy's portrayal on reality television accurately reflecting its realities, or is it creating a distorted picture of modern plural marriage? The recent separation of Christine Collier from Nathan Collier, echoing Kody Brown's high-profile splits from several of his wives, casts a stark light on the challenges and complexities inherent in polygamous relationships, both on and off the screen.

The world of polygamy, often sensationalized and sometimes misunderstood, has been thrust into the spotlight by reality television, most notably through shows like "Sister Wives." These programs offer a glimpse into the lives of families practicing plural marriage, revealing both the unique joys and the inherent struggles that come with such a lifestyle. However, behind the carefully curated narratives, real-life dramas often unfold, challenging the perceptions shaped by the screen.

The Colliers, a polygamous couple who shared their experiences on TLC's "Sister Wives" during season 8, have reportedly ended their relationship. This split follows the well-documented dissolution of Kody Brown's marriages to three of his wives, a series of events that has sparked widespread conversation about the viability and sustainability of polygamous unions. The parallel between these televised breakups raises questions about the pressures and complexities that these families face, both from within their relationships and from the external scrutiny of public life.

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Before the Colliers, another family featured on "Sister Wives," the Richards, also faced significant changes. Nathanael Richard, who appeared with his two wives, Rebecca Richard and Christina Bunning, in season 7, has since separated from both women. The Richards, a Christian polygamist family, had previously shared their strict religious disciplines and unique lifestyle with the Browns, offering a comparative perspective on the diverse approaches to polygamy within the community.

Nathan Collier's journey into polygamy began in his youth. He has stated that he grew up in the LDS (Latter-day Saint) faith and identified as a "polygamist" even before fully understanding the term. This background is significant, given the historical context of polygamy within the Mormon tradition. While Joseph Smith, the founder of the Mormon LDS faith, practiced polygamy, the practice was officially banned by the church in 1890. This historical shift underscores the evolving attitudes and legal challenges surrounding plural marriage in the United States.

Further complicating Collier's narrative is his attempt to legally legitimize his polygamous marriage. On a Tuesday in Billings, Montana, Nathan Collier and his wives, Victoria and Christine, applied at the Yellowstone County Courthouse for a marriage license. This attempt to formalize their union reflects a broader effort to challenge existing legal frameworks that restrict marriage to monogamous relationships. Collier, then 46, expressed his hope that his application would be a step toward greater recognition and acceptance of polygamous marriages. The application, submitted on Tuesday, June 30, sought to register Collier's second marriage with Christine.

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Magistrate Timothy Cavan acknowledged an 1878 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upheld states' rights to regulate marriage. This ruling, rooted in historical legal precedent, has served as a cornerstone in maintaining the legal definition of marriage as a union between two individuals. The legal battle that ensued saw Collier file a lawsuit against the state of Montana, aiming to legally marry his second wife, Christine, the same year their family appeared on "Sister Wives."

Reports indicate that Christine left Nathan in 2022, and they are no longer together, though he remains legally married to Victoria. The court case regarding the legality of the marriage was ultimately denied as moot, given the separation of Nathan and Christine. This outcome highlights the legal limbo in which many polygamous relationships exist, lacking the legal protections and recognition afforded to monogamous marriages.

It's worth noting that Nathan Colliers appearance on "Sister Wives," his subsequent attempt to legalize his marriage, and the eventual dissolution of his relationship with Christine, occurred within a relatively short timeframe. Some have speculated that Collier sought publicity through the show, perhaps hoping to advance his legal and social agenda. Regardless of his motivations, his story has become a case study in the complexities and challenges facing those who choose to live a polygamous lifestyle in a society where it is not widely accepted or legally recognized.

The separation of Christine Collier from Nathan Collier, and the earlier splits within the Richard family, serve as cautionary tales, reminding us that the dynamics of polygamous relationships are often more intricate and demanding than what is portrayed on television. These personal stories offer a nuanced perspective on the realities of polygamy, beyond the sensationalism and entertainment value often prioritized by reality TV.