Infidelity can come with a steep price, especially in North Carolina. TikTok influencer Brenay Kennard has been ordered to pay $40,000 while her appeal of an “alienation of affection” lawsuit is pending. This case centers on an extramarital affair that allegedly destroyed a marriage.
The Alienation of Affection Lawsuit
The initial lawsuit gained significant media attention in November 2025 when Akira Montague accused Kennard of alienation of affection. This legal concept, recognized in only a handful of states, allows a spouse to sue someone who allegedly caused their partner to end the marriage. Kennard admitted to having an affair with Timothy Montague, Akira’s husband, while she and Akira were reportedly friends.
A jury ultimately sided with Akira Montague, and a Superior Court judge initially ordered Kennard to pay $1.75 million. However, Kennard is now pursuing an appeal.
The Appeal and the $40,000 Undertaking
During a court appearance on March 24, Kennard’s attorney requested a $10,000 undertaking for the appeal process. Kennard presented bank statements and expense records, claiming the allegations have negatively impacted her income from online brand deals and prevented her from securing traditional employment. “Since the allegations that have been upon me—stalker, a jezebel, a liar, a cheater, all of those things—it really just doesn’t look good to the public eye as far as these brands I used to get,” Kennard stated in court footage.
However, Akira Montague’s lawyer argued that Kennard’s lifestyle hasn’t changed significantly, citing her continued patronage of restaurants and stores. The lawyer contended that the affair caused mental anguish, health issues, and deprived the children of a two-parent household, impacting the family’s income. Judge Hoyt Tessener ruled in favor of Akira Montague’s request for a $40,000 undertaking, stating, “The evidence presented shows income and expenses to be approximately the same before and after the judgment.”
Online Influence and Legal Consequences
Kennard boasts a substantial online presence, with nearly 3 million followers on TikTok and 274,000 on Instagram, where she shares daily vlogs and lifestyle content. Her online activity was reportedly used as evidence in the original case. This situation highlights the real-world legal consequences that can arise from personal relationships, even for those with a large digital footprint.
- TikTok influencer Brenay Kennard ordered to pay $40,000 during appeal.
- Case involves North Carolina’s “alienation of affection” law.
- Kennard admitted to an affair with the plaintiff’s husband.
- Original judgment was $1.75 million; appeal is pending.
- Judge cited Kennard’s consistent income and expenses as basis for the undertaking.
What are your thoughts on the alienation of affection law and Brenay Kennard’s case? Share your opinions in the comments below!
