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Jun 18, 20261
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Jelly Roll Files for Divorce from Bunnie Xo After Nearly 10 Years of Marriage, Citing Irreconcilable Differences
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Country singer Jelly Roll has filed for divorce from his wife Bunnie Xo after nearly 10 years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences and listing May 9 as their separation date. A source says the couple still love each other but are no longer on the same page about their future, as Jelly Roll's career and personal transformation have led him to focus on his health and longevity.
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Quick Facts
Who
Jelly Roll (Jason DeFord)
What
Filed for divorce
When
May 9, 2026
Where
United States
- Filed for divorce
- Cited irreconcilable differences
- Separated
- Underwent IVF
- Jelly Roll (Jason DeFord)
Country music star Jelly Roll (Jason DeFord) has filed for divorce from his wife, Bunnie Xo (Alisa DeFord), after nearly a decade of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences. The filing was made on May 18, with the date of separation listed as May 9, according to court documents. The news has surprised many fans, though a source tells PEOPLE the split did not come without warning.
A source close to the couple revealed that Jelly Roll, 41, and Bunnie Xo, 46, have "always had a complicated dynamic" that dates back to the early days of their relationship. When they first met, Jelly Roll was struggling financially while Bunnie Xo worked as a sex worker. The two initially shared a platonic friendship before taking their relationship to the next level and marrying in 2016. "When they first got together, they were both in a very different place in their lives," the source said. "There was a lot of chaos, ups and downs, and they built a life together through all of that."
Despite their public displays of affection, the couple has faced significant challenges over the years, including Jelly Roll's well-documented affair in 2018, which led to a temporary breakup. They also openly discussed their IVF journey and hopes of having a child together. However, the source explained that the couple had grown apart as Jelly Roll's career skyrocketed. "He's very focused on his future, his health and being around for a long time," the source said. "There wasn't a moment where everything fell apart. They still love each other but were no longer on the same page about certain things, including what they wanted their future to look like. People saw the public side of things, but there was a lot more going on privately."
The divorce filing comes just months after Jelly Roll tearfully thanked Bunnie Xo during his Grammy acceptance speech in February, saying, "I want to thank my beautiful wife. 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." In a January interview with PEOPLE, Bunnie Xo described him as "the coolest dude ever," adding, "His soul is so golden and pure and he really is a good man." Jelly Roll is father to daughter Bailee, 18, and son Noah, 9, from previous relationships.
Topics
Why This Matters
This divorce filing marks a pivotal personal transition for one of country music's most ascendant stars. Jelly Roll's rapid rise from humble beginnings to Grammy winner has fundamentally reshaped his priorities, making this split a case study in how career success and personal growth can alter intimate relationships. Fans and industry observers should watch how this divorce impacts his upcoming album cycle, tour schedule, and public image, as well as how his ex-wife Bunnie Xo navigates her own brand and platform post-divorce.
Timeline & Sources
Jan 1, 2016
WireJelly Roll and Bunnie Xo marry.
Jan 1, 2018
WireJelly Roll has an affair; couple breaks up for several weeks.
May 9, 2026
WireDate of separation listed in divorce filing.
May 18, 2026
WireJelly Roll files for divorce citing irreconcilable differences.
Jun 17, 2026
WirePEOPLE publishes exclusive source details about the split.