DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA — A social media influencer with nearly 3 million followers has been ordered to pay $1.75 million in damages after a North Carolina jury found her responsible for breaking up a marriage through an affair with her manager.
Brenay Kennard, known for her viral content on TikTok, was found liable in a civil case for alienation of affection and criminal conversation, two rarely used legal claims that remain enforceable in North Carolina.
Civil Suit Filed by Ex-Wife
The lawsuit was filed by Akira Montague, the former wife of Tim Montague, who had worked as Kennard’s manager. In her complaint, Akira alleged that the affair between her husband and Kennard led to the collapse of their marriage, caused significant emotional distress, and harmed the well-being of their children.
Akira testified that the betrayal deeply affected her mental health and family life, stating that Kennard’s interference deprived her children of a two-parent household. Her attorney, Robonetta Jones, praised the verdict, saying, “She has received justice for losing her husband and the father of her children.”
Kennard Denies Responsibility
Kennard pushed back against the ruling, insisting that Akira had already “given up” on the marriage and was aware of the affair. She maintained that the relationship between Tim and Akira had broken down before she entered the picture. Tim Montague eventually left his wife and began a relationship with Kennard.
Despite Kennard’s objections, the jury awarded Akira Montague $1.5 million for alienation of affection and $250,000 for criminal conversation which is a term referring to sexual relations with someone else’s spouse.
North Carolina’s Rare “Heart Balm” Laws
North Carolina is one of just a few U.S. states that still allows lawsuits like this, known as “heart balm” actions, where a jilted spouse can sue a third party for damaging their marriage.
While the $1.75 million award is substantial, it is not unprecedented. In 2011, a similar case in North Carolina resulted in a $30 million verdict, and a 2021 case involving a former state senator led to a $3 million settlement.
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