Jelly Roll Shares Update on Health and Fitness Journey After 120-Pound Weight Loss
Jelly Roll is reaching new milestones in his health and fitness journey.
The 40-year-old artist recently celebrated a significant achievement in his 120-pound weight loss journey.
“I hiked a mountain the other day—Camelback,” the country star, whose real name is Jason Bradley DeFord, shared exclusively with E! News at EA Sports’ pre-Super Bowl 2025 event, The Madden Bowl, in New Orleans on Feb. 7. Reflecting on the Arizona hike, he added, “There’s no way that would have been possible before, so it’s great to see that progress—and we’re still going.”
Jelly Roll, who was recently named American Idol’s first-ever “Artist-in-Residence,” previously revealed in November that he had lost 120 pounds. He also shared that in 2018, he had weighed over 500 pounds just three years prior.
Discussing his motivation, the Wild Ones singer acknowledged that staying focused and positive isn’t always easy.
“The people I’ve met along the way—in juvenile centers, rehab facilities, or prisons—keep me going,” he said. “Hearing their stories, whether it’s someone sharing their sobriety date, their struggles, or remembering a loved one they’ve lost, inspires me.”
Having battled addiction and served time for aggravated robbery and drug charges in the past, Jelly Roll emphasized the power of perseverance. “Seeing the resilience of the human spirit—there is no greater motivation to keep pushing forward.”
Throughout his transformation, his wife, Bunnie XO, has been a steadfast supporter. He even has a bold goal in mind: gracing the cover of Men’s Health magazine.
“I wanna be on the cover of Men’s Health by March 2026,” he declared on the Dec. 15 episode of her Dumb Blonde podcast.
Bunnie exclaimed, “Let’s go!”
Her husband continued, “That’s my new goal. I want to have one of the biggest transformations.”
Jelly Roll and Bunnie—real name Alyssa DeFord—have been married since 2016 and she is a stepmom to his kids Bailee Ann, 16, and Noah Buddy, 8.
The singer shared the key to the success of his relationship with his wife. “There’s not one rule, but a big thing is just prioritizing each other and the family,” he said. “And making it that simple.”
