Jelly Roll, a 39-year-old singer whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, announced his decision to opt out of using X as a social media platform, citing it as the most toxic and negative app. His wife, Bunnie Xo, also expressed her concerns about the cyberbullying her husband faced due to his weight, stating that it deeply affects him. She highlighted the serious consequences of cyberbullying and urged people to be kinder to others online.
Jelly Roll’s upbringing was marked by his parents’ struggles with addiction and mental illness, which led to his involvement in drugs and criminal activities in his teenage years and early 20s. Despite his past challenges, Jelly Roll has achieved success in his music career, winning a CMA award in 2023 and multiple CMT awards for his song, “Son of a Sinner.” He has also been nominated for a Grammy, showcasing his talent and dedication to his craft.
While sharing his struggles with addiction, Jelly Roll opened up about attending Alcoholics Anonymous meetings since he was a teenager. He credits these meetings for providing him with solace and helping him overcome his substance abuse issues. His experiences with Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous have inspired some of his hit songs, including “I Am Not Okay” and “Winning Streak,” which are featured on his latest album, Beautifully Broken.
Despite his success in the music industry, Jelly Roll remains humble and grounded, often sharing his personal struggles and experiences in interviews. On a recent episode of “The Highway” podcast, hosted by Ania Hammar, Jelly Roll discussed his ongoing battle with drugs and how he continues to attend meetings to maintain his relationship with sobriety. He emphasized the importance of these meetings in helping him stay on the right path and find peace in his recovery journey.
Jelly Roll’s decision to leave X reflects his commitment to prioritizing his mental health and well-being in the face of online negativity and cyberbullying. His wife’s public support of his decision and her plea for kindness online further highlight the harmful effects of online harassment. Jelly Roll’s journey from a troubled past to a successful music career, coupled with his ongoing efforts to overcome addiction and prioritize his recovery, serve as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Through his music and his personal story, Jelly Roll continues to advocate for self-care, resilience, and compassion in the face of adversity.
