Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo’s Turbulent Marriage Journey

Country music star Jelly Roll has officially filed for divorce from his wife, Bunnie Xo, after nine years of marriage. The papers were submitted on May 18 in Williamson County, Tennessee, citing irreconcilable differences as the reason for the split, with separation dated as May 9.

Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason DeFord, and Bunnie, born Alisa DeFord, married in August 2016 in a Las Vegas ceremony after a brief meeting. Bunnie became stepmother to Jelly Roll’s children, Bailee and Noah, and their relationship drew public attention, especially after Jelly Roll’s Grammy win in 2026, where they displayed affection on the red carpet.

“I thought he was different,” Bunnie disclosed, expressing her hurt upon discovering Jelly Roll’s past infidelity. “At that moment, my heart was broken.”

Bunnie has openly spoken about the struggles in their relationship in her memoir, “Stripped Down: Unfiltered and Unapologetic.” Their early years were marked by challenges, including Jelly Roll’s ex-fling. This led to a period of silence between them, during which Jelly Roll released his album, “Waylon & Willie II.” Bunnie criticized some tracks for reflecting guilt and infidelity.

Despite the turbulence, the couple sought to mend their relationship through therapy. Bunnie revealed a challenging therapy session that felt more like a “screaming match,” adding, “There was so much anger, hurt, and pain from both ends.” They realized their marriage was unconventional, with unusual rules grown from their pasts.

Bunnie said, “We went in there and this poor couple had no idea what they had stepped into.” Yet, this confrontation led them to recommit themselves to growth and change. She expressed a determination to become everything Jelly Roll desired in a wife, reciprocated by his efforts to be the husband she wished for.

The couple renewed their vows in 2023 at the Las Vegas chapel where they originally married, demonstrating their renewed commitment to one another. Bunnie highlighted their journey of continuous personal development, stating they made the choice to stay committed each day.

Bunnie reflected, “Marriage is not one-size-fits-all. Each relationship is different. You have to choose that person even when you don’t like them.” Their commitment involved facing life’s challenges together, ensuring transparency without judgment.