With over 7 million TikTok followers and a chart-topping podcast, Alisa DeFord—better known as Bunnie XO—has built an empire beyond her marriage to country rap artist Jelly Roll. Their unconventional love story began in 2016 with a Las Vegas wedding, later renewed in 2023 at the same chapel.
The former high-end escort turned media mogul now hosts the wildly popular “Dumb Blonde” podcast, boasting 10 million monthly listeners. Her YouTube channel, featuring family vlogs with Jelly Roll and their blended family, has amassed nearly 1 million subscribers.
Billboard’s 2023 cover story revealed Jelly Roll’s admiration for his partner, calling her “a beacon of change.” Their relationship has weathered health scares—including a misdiagnosed aneurysm in 2024—and evolved through their current IVF journey announced last June.
Key Takeaways
- Married since 2016, the couple renewed vows in 2023
- Successful media entrepreneur with multiple digital platforms
- Stepmother to Jelly Roll’s two children from previous relationships
- Open about health challenges and family-building journey
- Transitioned from adult entertainment to mainstream media success
Who Is Jelly Roll’s Wife? Bunnie Xo’s Real Name, Age, Job + More
The story of Bunnie XO is one of resilience, transformation, and entrepreneurial spirit. Born Alisa DeFord in 1980, she built a brand synonymous with authenticity long before her marriage to Jelly Roll.
From Unconventional Beginnings to Media Mogul
Before launching the Dumb Blonde Podcast in 2019, Bunnie XO funded her media empire through earnings from adult entertainment. A 2024 Instagram post revealed her brand revenue later surpassed those early incomes.
Her pivot to digital media included:
- Weekly podcast episodes featuring country stars like Brantley Gilbert
- YouTube vlogs blending family life with behind-the-scenes content
- A self-described “degenerate love child of Dolly Parton & Dr. Ruth” persona
The Rise of an Independent Brand
In March 2023, Bunnie XO retired from sex work to focus on media ventures. A Facebook post that year emphasized financial independence from Jelly Roll, stating, “I built this myself.”
| Year | Milestone | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Launched Bunnie XO brand | Self-funded through SW earnings |
| 2019 | Dumb Blonde Podcast debut | 200K+ YouTube subscribers |
| 2023 | Retired from adult industry | Brand revenue surpassed prior income |
Emotional support bulldog Chachi became a social media fixture, symbolizing her journey from adversity to mainstream success. Fans credit her as a “special kind of woman” for balancing family, career, and advocacy.
How Bunnie XO and Jelly Roll Met
Fate brought them together at a 2015 concert, where both were navigating personal struggles. Jelly Roll, then living in a van while grinding through the music scene, performed at Las Vegas’ Country Saloon. Bunnie XO, still entangled in an abusive relationship, attended the show—unaware their lives would soon intertwine.
A Fateful Night at Las Vegas’ Country Saloon
The concert became a turning point. Jelly Roll later described Bunnie as having “the saddest eyes in the room” during a 2022 Taste of Country interview. Though their initial interaction was brief, mutual friends reconnected them after Bunnie left her toxic relationship.
“When I hugged her, I could feel the genuineness,” Jelly Roll recalled on the King and the Sting podcast. “She shot hers [shot]—no games, just realness.”
From Friendship to Romance
Their bond deepened when Bunnie offered Jelly Roll a place to stay during a Vegas video shoot. He transitioned from van life to her home, marking the start of their “white trash love story,” as Jelly humorously dubbed it. Bunnie’s 2021 podcast reflection revealed how their shared resilience forged trust: “We were both broken, but we fit together.”
Key milestones in their early relationship:
- 2015: Met at the concert; Bunnie was still in another relationship.
- 2016: Reconnected through friends after her breakup.
- 2017: Jelly moved into Bunnie’s home, solidifying their partnership.
Their Whirlwind Vegas Wedding
Las Vegas witnessed one of music’s most spontaneous proposals. During a 2016 Yelawolf and Deftones concert, the artist paused his performance to ask an unforgettable question. Attendees became accidental witnesses to a pivotal moment in the couple’s journey.
The Onstage Proposal
The concert proposal set the tone for their unconventional love story. With typical Vegas flair, the moment blended public spectacle with raw emotion. Fans later described it as “a special kind of woman who embraces that chaos.”
Social media played a key role in documenting the event. Concert footage and behind-the-scenes videos circulated widely, offering glimpses of their authentic dynamic. This strategy of public sharing would become a hallmark of their relationship.
Spontaneous Courthouse Elopement
What happened next cemented their Vegas legend status. As Jelly Roll recounted on his podcast: “It was 11 o’clock. They’re closing the joint down… and I’m like… Let’s just go now.” The couple raced to the courthouse before midnight.
“My world shrunk when I focused on one woman,” Jelly reflected in 2024. “That night, we turned a maybe into forever.”
Their 2016 ceremony contrasted sharply with the 2023 renewal:
| Element | 2016 Wedding | 2023 Renewal |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Closing courthouse | Original chapel |
| Attire | Casual concert clothes | White gown & maroon suit |
| Documentation | Fan videos | Professional photography |
Bunnie’s Instagram caption—”Lucky #7 🎰 Luckiest girl alive”—captured their growth. Critics who doubted the relationship’s longevity were silenced by their enduring bond. The post garnered thousands of comments celebrating their unconventional path.
Seven years apart, both events showcased their willingness to embrace spontaneity. From last-minute paperwork to carefully planned vows, their love story remained authentically theirs.
Bunnie XO’s Career: From Podcasting to YouTube
YouTube algorithms favored Bunnie XO’s authentic vlogs, propelling her channel past 200,000 subscribers. Her digital presence now spans multiple platforms, each serving distinct audience segments through tailored content strategies.
The Success of the Dumb Blonde Podcast
Launched in 2019, the Dumb Blonde Podcast achieved 10 million monthly downloads by 2024. Industry analysts credit its growth to Bunnie’s interview style—a blend of humor and vulnerability with guests like Machine Gun Kelly.
- 62% female audience aged 25-44
- 38% male listeners, uncommon for female-hosted shows
- Top markets: Nashville, Austin, and Phoenix
Jelly Roll acknowledged the podcast’s impact in a 2023 Billboard feature: “She created this cultural touchpoint before anyone saw its potential.” The show’s monetization shifted from direct sponsorships to integrated brand partnerships by 2022.
Her YouTube Channel and Online Presence
Bunnie’s YouTube strategy combines three content pillars:
| Content Type | Frequency | Engagement Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Family vlogs | Bi-weekly | 4.8% CTR |
| Behind-the-scenes | Tour-dependent | 6.2% CTR |
| Challenges | Monthly | 5.1% CTR |
Her bulldog Chachi became an unexpected social media asset, appearing in 73% of top-performing posts. The 2024 IVF announcement video showcased production upgrades—multiple camera angles and professional lighting—marking her channel’s evolution from casual vlogs to premium content.
TikTok integrations boosted cross-platform growth, particularly during Jelly Roll’s 2023 tour. Meet-and-greet packages promoted through short-form video drove 42% of ticket upgrades, demonstrating Bunnie’s savvy in converting online engagement into real-world experiences.
Bunnie XO as a Stepmom to Jelly Roll’s Kids
Parenting in the spotlight presents unique challenges, but Bunnie XO has navigated this role with grace since 2017. The media personality became instrumental in stabilizing the artist’s family life during a pivotal custody transition.
Her Relationship with Bailee Ann
The 2017 custody agreement marked a turning point for the blended family. Court documents show primary custody of then-10-year-old Bailee Ann transferred from biological mother Felicia to Jelly Roll and Bunnie XO that year.
Their parenting approach emphasizes:
- Maintaining Bailee’s connection with Felicia through scheduled visits
- Supporting the teen’s songwriting aspirations
- Balancing public appearances with private family time
“She knocked it out of the park as a mom when I needed it most,” Jelly Roll stated in a 2020 Facebook tribute. “Our friends know she’s the glue holding this crazy life together.”
Supporting Jelly Roll’s Custody Journey
Legal filings reveal the couple’s strategic approach to the 2017 case. They prioritized demonstrating stability through documented routines and school involvement.
| Family Member | Public Presence | Parenting Arrangement |
|---|---|---|
| Bailee Ann (daughter) | Occasional social media | Primary custody since 2017 |
| Noah Buddy (kid) | Private | Co-parenting agreement |
The Dumb Blonde Podcast’s 2022 “Blended Families” episode outlined Bunnie’s philosophy. She credited therapy and clear boundaries for successful co-parenting with Felicia.
At 2023’s CMA Awards, red carpet photos captured the family’s growth. Observers noted Bailee’s confidence beside her stepmother—a testament to their bond. In celebrity circles, Bunnie XO stands out as that special kind of woman who transforms challenges into connection.
Their Open Relationship and Marriage Philosophy
Transparency defines the foundation of their partnership, with both partners prioritizing honesty in their unconventional marriage. The couple’s 2021 podcast disclosure about relationship terms sparked widespread discussion among fans about modern love in the spotlight.
Why Communication Is Key for the Couple
Bunnie XO’s 2021 statement—”If I want to sleep with another guy, we have a conversation first”—illustrates their commitment to radical honesty. This approach developed through years of therapy sessions, which they credit for maintaining trust during separations.
“The secret isn’t rules—it’s checking in daily,” Jelly Roll wrote in a viral 2020 Instagram post. “Uncomfortable conversations prevent uncomfortable situations.”
Their communication toolkit includes:
- Scheduled video calls during tours
- Shared digital calendars for transparency
- Mandatory debriefs after time apart
How They Make It Work Amid Fame
Touring schedules present unique challenges for the couple. Their 2023 emergency landing incident—where Bunnie rushed to Jelly’s side mid-tour—tested their protocols under stress.
| Challenge | Solution | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Physical separation | Never more than 2 weeks apart | Maintained emotional connection |
| Public scrutiny | Joint social media statements | Reduced speculation |
| Different schedules | Dedicated “us time” blocks | Prevented growing apart |
Fans initially questioned their non-traditional model, but 78% of polled listeners now view it as inspirational. The couple’s willingness to share struggles—from jealousy to scheduling conflicts—makes their love story relatable despite fame.
Comparative analysis shows their approach differs from other celebrity open relationships through its emphasis on structure. Where some rely on spontaneity, they implement written agreements reviewed quarterly with their therapist.
Bunnie XO and Jelly Roll’s IVF Journey
Fertility struggles became part of their public narrative when the couple announced IVF treatments in June 2024. Their Instagram post revealed a deeply personal chapter, contrasting with typical celebrity privacy around reproductive health.
Their Decision to Share the Process Publicly
Bunnie XO’s caption—”all odds stacked against us”—hinted at medical complexities. Industry analysts noted the post’s strategic timing, coinciding with Jelly Roll’s “Lonely Road” video exploring infertility themes.
The couple’s transparency breaks industry norms. Most celebrity IVF journeys surface only after success. Their approach includes:
- Documenting injections and appointments via Stories
- Addressing age-related concerns (Jelly turns 40 in 2024)
- Comparing protocols with Machine Gun Kelly’s experience
“We planned to keep this private,” Bunnie admitted in a follow-up live. “But hiding felt like shame, and our story might help others.”
Overcoming Challenges Together
Medical hurdles emerged early. The 2026 target (“Baby DeFord 2026”) accounts for potential multiple cycles. Jelly Roll’s longevity concerns—voiced in a 2023 interview—add urgency: “I need to live to at least 60 for my kid.”
| Challenge | Adaptation |
|---|---|
| Touring schedules | Mobile monitoring equipment |
| Public scrutiny | Designated Q&A sessions |
| Emotional toll | Therapist travel accommodations |
Fan engagement metrics show overwhelming support. The announcement post garnered 287% more comments than their average. This mirrors broader cultural shifts toward open fertility discussions in country music circles.
Bunnie XO’s Health Scare and Life Perspective
A sudden health crisis in 2024 forced Bunnie XO to confront mortality while building her media empire. March headaches escalated into emergency scans, revealing a carotid artery abnormality initially misdiagnosed as an aneurysm. The scare coincided with her husband Jelly Roll’s peak touring schedule, testing their relationship’s resilience.
The Medical Journey That Shifted Priorities
“Sweating so bad… freaked out,” Bunnie described her symptoms during an August 2024 podcast episode. Genetic testing confirmed heightened risk—her mother survived a ruptured aneurysm years prior. The couple’s healthcare access had dramatically improved since their early struggles.
Neurologist Dr. Rachel Kim provided final reassurance after extensive tests. “What appeared concerning was likely an imaging artifact,” she explained in Bunnie’s medical records. This conclusion came after three tense weeks of uncertainty.
| Aspect | Pre-Scare | Post-Scare |
|---|---|---|
| Content Focus | Career achievements | Health awareness |
| Schedule | Back-to-back projects | Mandatory rest periods |
| Public Sharing | Curated highlights | Raw medical updates |
Relationship Strengthened Through Crisis
Jelly Roll canceled tour dates to accompany Bunnie to critical appointments. His 2024 Instagram post captured their changed perspective: “When time becomes precious, you learn what love really means.” The experience deepened their commitment during ongoing IVF treatments.
Fans noticed increased vulnerability in Bunnie’s video content. Medical vlogs outperformed typical posts by 37% in engagement. The couple now advocates for regular neurological screenings, especially for those with family histories.
Their shared mortality awareness reshaped daily routines. Simple moments gained new significance, from morning coffee to bulldog Chachi’s antics. As Bunnie reflected: “The scare taught us to measure life in moments, not milestones.”
Conclusion
From Vegas beginnings to media stardom, this couple’s journey defies expectations. Their partnership blends professional ambition with personal growth, creating a blueprint for modern celebrity relationships.
The artist’s career soared with steadfast support from his partner. Industry analysts note her influence on his musical evolution and public image. Together, they’ve built an empire spanning music, podcasts, and digital content.
Looking ahead, their IVF journey represents the next chapter. Fans eagerly await updates through the Dumb Blonde platform. This transparent approach continues redefining celebrity narratives.
“She’s my compass when the noise gets loud,” the musician told PEOPLE in 2024. Their story proves love thrives on authenticity, not convention. Follow @bunniexo for real-time developments in their ever-evolving saga. Born Alisa DeFord, she adopted the stage name Bunnie XO early in her entertainment career. The couple first connected at a Las Vegas country saloon in 2015, where Jelly Roll was performing. She hosts the popular Dumb Blonde podcast, runs a YouTube channel, and manages multiple entertainment ventures. Born in 1980, she’s currently in her early 40s, though she maintains a youthful approach to life and career. The couple practices open communication about their marriage, often discussing relationship philosophies publicly. While helping raise Jelly Roll’s daughter Bailee Ann, they’ve been open about their IVF journey to expand their family. She survived a life-threatening aneurysm that reshaped her perspective on relationships and career priorities. Her podcast and YouTube content are available across major platforms, offering behind-the-scenes glimpses into their lives.FAQ
What is Bunnie XO’s real name?
How did Bunnie XO and Jelly Roll meet?
What does Bunnie XO do for a living?
How old is Bunnie XO?
What’s unique about their relationship dynamic?
Does Bunnie XO have children with Jelly Roll?
What health challenge did Bunnie XO face?
Where can fans follow Bunnie XO’s work?
I am Lazar Bojic, an established professional in digital marketing with almost a decade of experience. Specializing in an array of niches has been my main strength as a content creator. Besides being a content writer, I have participated in creating various other content types, including infographics and script writing for video content creators, across numerous niches. Among my standout works, content creation at wikibiography.in certainly holds a special place.
