TikTok Influencer Ordered to Pay $1.75 Million in Alienation of Affection Lawsuit

A North Carolina jury yesterday ordered TikTok influencer Brenay Kennard to pay $1.75 million to the ex-wife of her former manager, after finding her liable for interfering with the couple’s marriage.

Akira Montague sued Kennard, who has 2.9 million followers on the social media platform, under North Carolina’s alienation of affection law. The lawsuit alleged Kennard pursued a relationship with Tim Montague, while he was married, utilizing personal information shared during a friendship with his wife. Montague accused Kennard of engaging in deliberately seductive behavior, including flirtatious gestures and exchanging explicit content with her husband. According to Cornell Law School, alienation of affection lawsuits are permitted in a small number of U.S. states.

The jury found Kennard liable for $250,000 for “criminal conversation” and $1.5 million for alienation of affection. Court documents detailed accusations that Kennard and Tim Montague exchanged “numerous sexual videos and text messages” and frequently met at the Montagues’ home. Kennard was also accused of planning trips with Tim Montague and expressing desires to marry him and have children. The case highlights the continued relevance of antiquated laws regarding marital interference, even in the age of social media. Headlinez News has more on unusual legal cases.

Kennard disputed the jury’s decision, claiming Akira Montague had consented to the affair, stating, “She said it was okay because she knew her marriage was over with, and it was done.” Montague denied giving such consent in her lawsuit. Attorneys for Montague have not yet commented on Kennard’s statements.

Kennard’s legal team is expected to file an appeal, and the influencer has indicated she intends to fight the verdict.