Introducing Jolene
A TikTok influencer has been ordered to pay $1.75 million for allegedly wrecking her manager’s marriage, while invoking a peculiar state law aimed at curbing infidelity, according to court documents from North Carolina.
Brené Kennard, with nearly 3 million followers on TikTok, stands accused of having an affair with her manager, Tim Montague. This claim emerged from a lawsuit filed in Durham, North Carolina, by the ex-wife of her boyfriend, Akria.
Initially, Mrs. Montague sought $3.5 million in damages through a civil suit under North Carolina’s Alienation of Affections Act back in 2024.
This law, reminiscent of Dolly Parton’s 1973 song “Jolene,” requires plaintiffs to demonstrate they were in a loving marriage, the third party was aware of it, and that the marriage endured while the affair took place.
North Carolina remains one of just six states that permits spouses to sue outside parties for meddling in their marriage—this practice stems from English common law.
Robonetta Jones, Montague’s attorney, noted, “When you think about alienation of affection, you have to think about the humiliation that the spouse experienced.” She added that Kennard “flaunted her relationship” with a married man, causing significant embarrassment for Montague.
Akria Montague stated that the affair led to emotional turmoil, negatively impacted her health, and deprived her children of a stable two-parent environment.
Reactions in the courtroom included cheers when the settlement was announced, while Kennard left the scene promptly.
In court, Kennard refuted the allegations, arguing that Montague knew the marriage was finished and consented to the affair.
Kennard claimed, “She agreed. She understood it was over,” referring to Tim Montague.
Eventually, Mr. Montague left his wife for Kennard, who was at that time married to Montague’s cousin.
Throughout the six-day trial, Jones presented over 700 pages of evidence, culminating in the jury’s decision to award damages to Montague.
Kennard had posted various images and videos on social media suggesting closeness between the couples, which only fueled the case.
Jones mentioned that they were often seen together, emphasizing that evidence, including text messages, played a significant role in the trial.
Despite attempting to dismiss the case on the grounds that evidence was obtained illegally, Kennard’s efforts were unsuccessful.
Ultimately, Montague was awarded $1.5 million for alienation of affection and $250,000 for criminal conversation—a settlement recognized as one of the largest in North Carolina’s history.
In previous high-profile cases, substantial settlements have been granted for similar claims, reflecting the gravity attributed to such matters in the state.
Jones added, “The message is clear: if you interfere in someone else’s marriage, there will be consequences.” She hopes this would deter others from such actions.
Kennard had yet to publicly comment on the ruling.
