Bailee Ann DeFord Voices Discontent Over Public Interest in Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo's Divorce

Bailee Ann DeFord expressed her dismay regarding public interest in her father Jelly Roll's divorce from Bunnie Xo, calling it a private family issue while hinting at future comments.

Bailee Ann DeFord has publicly addressed the attention surrounding her father, Jelly Roll's, divorce from her stepmother, Bunnie Xo. The teenager expressed her feelings about the situation on June 16 through her TikTok Stories, stating, 'I am disgusted at how invested everyone is in a very clearly private family matter.' She urged fans to focus on their own lives, saying, 'Go on somewhere yall. Worry bout your house—not mine.' While she requested privacy, Bailee hinted that she may share her thoughts on the divorce later, mentioning, 'I’m not speaking on it—yet.'

The announcement of Jelly Roll and Bunnie's separation came just a day before Bailee's comments, revealing that the couple had ended their nearly 10-year marriage. According to divorce paperwork obtained by E! News, Jelly Roll, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, cited 'irreconcilable differences' as the reason for the split, with the date of separation listed as May 9. The couple shares a son, Noah, who is 9 years old, and Jelly Roll also has Bailee from a previous relationship.

Fans were taken aback by the news, especially given how openly the couple had expressed their affection for each other in the past. Just a few months prior, Bunnie, whose real name is Alisa DeFord, released her best-selling memoir, 'Stripped Down,' and had been seen with Jelly Roll at various events, where they spoke about their strong relationship.

Neither Jelly Roll nor Bunnie have publicly commented on the reasons behind the breakup. However, Bunnie shared some cryptic messages on social media following the announcement. On June 15, she lip-synced to Nickelback’s song 'How You Remind Me,' which includes themes of misunderstanding and heartbreak. Additionally, she posted a topless photo on her Instagram Stories, indicating that she was focusing on self-empowerment with the caption, 'She’s getting her sparkle back.'

To provide context on their relationship, Jelly Roll and Bunnie's romance began in Las Vegas, where they first met in August 2015 during one of Jelly Roll's early performances. Bunnie recounted that their initial connection was strong, despite Jelly Roll not being her type at the time. Their relationship did not develop immediately due to Bunnie's involvement in an unhealthy relationship, but they reconnect in October 2015, leading to a romantic relationship that blossomed.

The couple married a month after reuniting, in August 2016, at the Stained Glass Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas. Bunnie shared that they had a five-year plan that they successfully completed, which included buying a house together. Bunnie transitioned from her previous career in the sex work industry and launched her podcast, 'Dumb Blonde,' with Jelly Roll's support. She also played a crucial role in helping Jelly Roll gain custody of Bailee, who was born in 2008 while Jelly Roll was incarcerated.

Jelly Roll has been vocal about his struggles and how Bailee has positively impacted his life. He described her as his saving grace in his documentary, 'Jelly Roll: Save Me,' mentioning that he wasn't a present father initially but became more involved after seeking custody. Bunnie took on a maternal role in Bailee's life, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be a mother figure.

The couple welcomed their son Noah in August 2016, shortly before their wedding. They have kept much of Noah's life private but have shared glimpses on social media. Bunnie has emphasized her good relationship with Noah's mother, stating that they work together to co-parent effectively.

Jelly Roll and Bunnie's relationship faced challenges, including Jelly Roll's admission of infidelity, which he described as one of the worst moments of his life. Despite this, they worked to repair their relationship, renewing their commitment to each other in 2018 and celebrating their love with a vow renewal in 2023.

As their relationship progressed, they made public appearances together, including their first red carpet event at the 2022 CMA Awards. Bunnie has been a significant source of inspiration for Jelly Roll's music, and they have collaborated on several projects.

However, the couple announced their separation after nearly a decade of marriage, with Jelly Roll filing for divorce in May 2026. Bunnie indicated that communication issues contributed to their falling out, but both have expressed a commitment to co-parenting and maintaining their friendship. Jelly Roll affirmed this at a concert on June 18, stating, 'Me and my wife are best friends. We will always be best friends.'