Social Media Drama Spills Into North Carolina Courtroom
In a case that feels ripped straight from reality TV,
Brenay Kennard, a TikTok influencer with over 3 million followers, has been ordered by a North Carolina jury to pay a staggering
$1.75 million in damages after being found liable for breaking up a marriage through an alleged affair.
The Lawsuit That Shocked Social Media
The drama began when
Akira Montague, the ex-wife of Kennard’s now-partner Timothy Montague, filed a civil lawsuit in Durham County Superior Court. Akira accused Kennard of “alienation of affection” and “criminal conversation”—two rarely used but still legal claims in North Carolina that allow a spouse to sue a third party for interfering in a marriage.
According to court documents, Akira alleged that Kennard began a relationship with Timothy while he was still married, and that Kennard “flaunted” their romance on social media, even featuring Akira’s children in her videos without consent. The case quickly went viral, with fans and critics alike following every twist online.
Jury Delivers a Historic Verdict
After a week-long trial and less than two hours of jury deliberation, the verdict was clear: Kennard was ordered to pay
$1.5 million for alienation of affection and an additional
$250,000 for criminal conversation, making it the third-highest award in North Carolina history for such a case.
Akira’s attorney, Robonetta Jones, told reporters,
“This case was not about vengeance. It was about accountability. The evidence overwhelmingly supported my client’s stance that Brenay Kennard not only alienated the affections of Akira’s husband but also inflicted emotional injury on his children as well.”
Kennard Fires Back
Kennard, who represented herself in court, called the verdict “outrageous” and accused Akira’s legal team of lying and being motivated by money. In a statement to People magazine, Kennard wrote,
“The truth will always be the truth, and it’s easy to believe the lies, especially when playing the victim card. [Akira] may have won the battle but not the war. God will have the final say.”
Timothy Montague, now Kennard’s partner, echoed her sentiments, claiming the marriage was already over before their relationship began. He told the court that he and Akira had been separated since 2021, describing their relationship as “just like roommates.” Akira, however, insisted they were still together and “had sex” during that period.
Why This Case Matters
North Carolina is one of the few states where alienation of affection and criminal conversation lawsuits are still allowed. These laws, which date back centuries, are rarely used but can result in massive financial penalties for those found liable. The case has reignited debate about whether such laws still have a place in modern society.
For Kennard, the verdict is a harsh reminder that
actions—especially those played out in the public eye—can have serious consequences. The influencer’s legal troubles may not be over, as reports also mention ongoing cyberstalking allegations and further legal drama.
What’s Next for Kennard?
With her reputation under fire and a multi-million dollar judgment hanging over her head, Kennard’s future as a social media star is uncertain. The case has already sparked heated discussions online about privacy, accountability, and the blurred lines between personal and public life in the age of influencers.
One thing is clear: this is a story that’s far from over, and the internet will be watching every move.
Sources
1. Love does cost a thing: Jury orders influencer to pay $1.75 ...
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3. TikTok Star Has to Pay $1.75 Million After Breaking Up ...
4. NCCU Student Terrance "T" Howard Dies At 19
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