Country music star Jelly Roll has filed for divorce from his wife, Bunnie XO, bringing an end to one of country music’s most talked-about relationships after nearly 10 years of marriage.
According to court records viewed by PEOPLE, the divorce petition was filed in Williamson County, Tennessee, on May 18. TMZ was first to report the filing. Reports indicate the split was a mutual decision, though neither side has publicly commented in detail on the reasons behind it.
Bunnie XO’s Cryptic Posts Raised Eyebrows Before News Broke
Just hours before news of the divorce filing became public, Bunnie XO shared a series of cryptic Instagram Stories that quickly drew attention from fans.
In one post, the Dumb Blonde podcast host shared a lingerie photo of herself posing while removing a bra strap. The image featured the caption, “She’s getting her sparkle back ✨,” while Metric’s song “Help I’m Alive” played in the background.
About an hour later, she reposted a screenshot of a text message that read, “Come here, let me show you what love feels like,” accompanied by J. Cole’s “Power Trip.”
Bunnie also shared a Snoop Dogg Instagram Reel featuring the text, “‘You’re embarrassing cut it out.'” The video then displayed the phrase, “Me about to take it up a notch:” alongside a dancing monkey.
The posts fueled speculation online after the divorce filing became public, though Bunnie did not directly reference her relationship status in any of the uploads.
A Surprising Turn After Public Displays of Support
The news comes just months after the couple appeared stronger than ever at the 2026 Grammy Awards. During his acceptance speech for Best Contemporary Country Album, Jelly Roll became emotional while thanking Bunnie, crediting her with helping transform his life.
“I would have never changed my life without you. I would have ended up dead or in jail. I would have killed myself if it wasn’t for you and Jesus. I thank you for that,” he said during the ceremony.
The heartfelt comments quickly went viral, making the divorce filing all the more unexpected for fans who had followed the couple’s journey.
A Relationship Built Before Fame
Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, first met Bunnie, born Alisa DeFord, at one of his concerts at Las Vegas’ Country Saloon in 2015, before his rise to mainstream success.
The pair became engaged in 2016 and secretly married in a courthouse ceremony the same night as the proposal without informing friends or family. Years later, in 2023, they returned to the same chapel to renew their wedding vows.
Over the years, the couple frequently shared both the highs and lows of their relationship, earning praise from fans for their openness about marriage, forgiveness, and personal growth.
Challenges Behind the Scenes
Both Jelly Roll and Bunnie have previously spoken publicly about difficult periods in their marriage, including temporary separations and infidelity. In interviews, the singer admitted that mistakes early in their relationship became some of the most painful moments of his adult life.
Bunnie later revealed in her memoir that the couple worked through significant challenges and ultimately chose to rebuild their relationship rather than walk away permanently.
Family Plans Added New Chapter
One of the most discussed topics surrounding the couple in recent months was their desire to expand their family. Bunnie had openly discussed fertility struggles, IVF treatments, and plans involving surrogacy.
In interviews earlier this year, she expressed optimism about welcoming a child together, saying she believed everything would happen in the right time despite the obstacles they faced.
Fans React to Unexpected News
The divorce announcement has sparked an outpouring of reactions online, with many fans expressing shock given the couple’s recent public appearances, future family plans, and the affectionate moments they shared publicly as recently as the Grammy Awards.
While details surrounding the separation remain private, supporters continue to reflect on the couple’s highly public journey, which saw them overcome personal struggles, career challenges, and years of intense public scrutiny.
