TikTok Star Brenay Kennard Ordered to Pay $1.75 Million in Landmark Alienation of Affection Lawsuit

A North Carolina jury has ordered TikTok personality Brenay Kennard to pay $1.75 million. The verdict comes from a lawsuit filed by Akira Montague, the ex-wife of Kennard’s current partner. The case centered on claims of an alleged affair that ended a marriage.

The lawsuit was filed under North Carolina’s unique “alienation of affection” law. This statute allows a spouse to sue a third party for damaging the marriage. According to NBC News, the jury reached its decision on November 10.

Jury Finds for Plaintiff in Civil Case

The jury found Brenay Kennard liable on two counts. She was ordered to pay $250,000 for criminal conversation. An additional $1.5 million was awarded for the alienation of affection claim.

The financial impact on the 26-year-old influencer is significant. This ruling highlights the serious consequences of this rare civil action. The case has drawn national attention to such laws.

Details of the Alleged Affair Emerge in Court

Akira Montague’s lawsuit alleged a detailed timeline of events. She claimed Kennard used their friendship to get close to Tim Montague. The couple had been married since 2018 and share two children.

The court documents described specific flirtatious behavior. Akira alleged Kennard made overtly seductive gestures towards Tim. The suit also cited numerous explicit video and text exchanges.

Emotional Toll and Legal Aftermath

The plaintiff’s attorney, Robonetta Jones, spoke after the verdict. She told WRAL that her client “has received justice from losing her husband and the father of her children.” The statement emphasized the personal loss behind the legal victory.

Both Brenay Kennard and Tim Montague have publicly disputed the outcome. Montague claimed his partner had “no fair shot” against a full legal team. Kennard called the verdict unfair and suggested an appeal was possible.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is alienation of affection?

Alienation of affection is a civil claim that allows a spouse to sue a third party for wrecking the marriage. It is based on the idea that the third party’s actions destroyed the love and affection in the union. Only a few states, including North Carolina, still recognize this law.

How much does Brenay Kennard have to pay?

The jury ordered her to pay a total of $1.75 million. This sum is broken down into $1.5 million for alienation of affection and $250,000 for the related claim of criminal conversation.

What was Brenay Kennard’s reaction to the verdict?

She stated the verdict was “not fair at all” and claimed the jury sought sympathy over facts. When asked about the payment, she remarked to reporters, “She’ll probably never see it,” suggesting she may not pay the damages.

What are alienation of affection laws?

These are civil laws that permit a spouse to sue someone they believe caused the breakdown of their marriage. The laws are sometimes called “heartbalm” statutes. They are very uncommon in the United States today.

Who is Tim Montague?

Tim Montague is Brenay Kennard’s former manager and current romantic partner. He was married to Akira Montague, the plaintiff in this case, from 2018 until their separation. The couple shares two young children.