TikTok Creator’s $3.5M Courtroom Drama: Affair With Her Friend’s Husband Might Cost Her Everything

North Carolina TikTok star Brenay Kennard is at the center of a high-stakes legal battle that could cost her millions. The lifestyle content creator, known for her “get ready with me” videos and mukbangs, is representing herself in an alienation of affection lawsuit filed by her current husband’s ex-wife, Akira Montague. The claim, filed in Durham County Superior Court in May 2024, seeks $3.5 million in damages, including punitive and compensatory awards.

Montague alleges that Kennard’s relationship with her ex-husband, Timothy Montague, caused the collapse of her marriage. Central to the lawsuit, which was filed May 2024, are claims that Kennard, who was also married at the time of the alleged affair, posted social media content with Timothy while he was still married, publicly shared photos of Montague’s children without consent, and “flaunted” the affair on TikTok livestreams, according to the lawsuit. The case highlights the financial implications of alienation of affection laws, still recognized in only a handful of states, including North Carolina.

The courtroom proceedings have gone viral as other content creators have become trial “reporters,” posting updates live from the courthouse. The trial, in which Kennard is representing herself, started on Nov. 3. And, it has been so messy that one of the 12 jurors asked to be excused over the graphic evidence.

With 3 million followers across TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram, the influencer’s online presence is a major factor in the case. Posts that allegedly violated Montague’s privacy could translate to significant punitive damages if the jury sides with the plaintiff. Her TikTok account, with 2.9 million followers, is @LifeofBrenay.

Testimony from key figures, including Timothy Montague and Kennard’s ex-husband Devon Mayo, has already painted a complex picture of intertwined relationships and financial stakes. Timothy’s presence in Kennard’s content and his prior marital history are central to Montague’s argument that Kennard’s actions directly contributed to emotional and financial harm. Outside the courtroom, legal complications have added to the financial pressure, such as Timothy’s arrest at the courthouse for carrying weapons and bond payment of $2,500. Kennard was also arrested earlier this month in a cyber stalking case Montague has against her.

Montague presented evidence indicating the two women were good friends, having known each other for several years. According to her, not only did the couples go on double dates and spent holidays together, the two women also socialized together. Kennard has claimed the two were mere acquaintances.

Montague testified that see was seeking millions from the TikTok star because she has lost a second household income, loss of childcare stability, missed work, and costs related to her and her children’s therapy needs.

The case is expected to go to jury deliberations on Monday, and the final verdict could have lasting consequences for Kennard, not only in financial terms but also for her online brand and social media career.