North Carolina TikTok Influencer Ordered to Pay $1.75 Million for Affair That Destroyed Woman’s Marriage
NORTH CAROLINA — A TikTok influencer with millions of followers has been ordered to pay $1.75 million in damages after a North Carolina court ruled that she intentionally interfered in another woman’s marriage, leading to its collapse.
Influencer Brenay Kennard, who boasts over 3 million followers on TikTok, was found liable for “criminal conversation and alienation of affection” after an affair with Tim Montague, the husband of Akira Montague.
The civil lawsuit, filed by Akira Montague, accused Kennard of seducing her husband, causing her significant mental and emotional distress, and depriving her children of a two-parent household.
Lawsuit Claims Mental Anguish and Family Loss
According to court filings, Akira Montague stated that the affair caused her severe emotional pain, health problems, and the loss of her family stability. Her attorney, Robonetta Jones, said the verdict provided “justice for losing her husband and the father of her children.”
“She has received justice from losing her husband and the father of her children,” Jones said following the ruling.
Kennard’s relationship with Tim Montague reportedly began while the influencer was rising in popularity on TikTok. The lawsuit alleged that Kennard knowingly pursued a romantic relationship with a married man, fully aware of the harm it would cause.
North Carolina’s Rare “Alienation of Affection” Law
North Carolina is one of only a few states that still allows such lawsuits, known as alienation of affection cases, which let a spouse sue another person for interfering in a marriage.
According to ABC 7, these laws allow a “jilted” spouse to seek damages from someone who intentionally causes the breakdown of a marital relationship — even if the marriage ends in divorce.
Under the criminal conversation statute, courts can hold individuals financially responsible for engaging in sexual relationships with someone else’s spouse, regardless of whether the couple was already separated.
Legal experts note that these cases often result in large financial awards when evidence proves willful and malicious intent, as in Kennard’s case.
Plaintiff’s Reaction to the Verdict
Akira Montague told reporters that she hopes the ruling sends a message about accountability and respect for marriage. “This wasn’t just about money,” she said. “It’s about standing up for what’s right after my family was destroyed.”
The lawsuit outcome has sparked wide discussion online, particularly because of Kennard’s social media presence. Many commenters debated whether such laws should still exist, while others expressed sympathy for Montague’s situation.
Influencer’s Silence After Verdict
As of now, Kennard has not issued a public statement regarding the judgment. Her TikTok account remains active, though followers have noticed that recent posts avoid referencing the lawsuit or her involvement with Montague.
Meanwhile, the ruling reinforces North Carolina’s stance as one of the few states where affairs can carry serious financial consequences.
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