Bunnie Xo Responds to Criticism Over Her Image in the Country Music Scene with Poise and Strength

Bunnie Xo, the outspoken podcast host and wife of country music star Jelly Roll, has once again taken a stand against online criticism targeting her appearance and role in the country music community.

Known for her candidness and unwavering support of her husband, Bunnie recently addressed harsh comments labeling her image as “trashy” within the traditionally conservative country music scene.

Her response, shared through a heartfelt video montage on Instagram, not only defended herself but also highlighted the transformative journeys both she and Jelly Roll have undergone.

The backlash began when an online user disparaged Bunnie’s image, stating, “I love Bunnie, but her image is trashy for the country music scene.

This comment sparked a wave of negativity from some fans who questioned her place alongside a country music icon like Jelly Roll.

Rather than retreating, Bunnie chose to confront the criticism head-on with a message rooted in resilience, self-worth, and love.

In the Instagram video, Bunnie shared touching moments with Jelly Roll, underscoring the deep bond they share.

She opened up about her difficult past, revealing that she grew up on the streets of Las Vegas as a homeless runaway at age 14.

By 21, she was involved in the adult industry and had survived abuse and addiction.

Despite these hardships, she built her life from the ground up, overcoming the label of being “never good enough” and the stigma of being called “trash.

Bunnie’s story is one of transformation and redemption, themes that resonate deeply with her husband’s own journey.

Jelly Roll, a former felon, has spent the last decade righting his wrongs and evolving both physically and spiritually.

Together, their narratives of change and growth defy the shallow judgments often cast by critics.

“Sometimes God uses the most unlikely people to be vessels to show what transformation and unconditional love is,” Bunnie said in her response.

She emphasized that the hate they receive is nothing new, stating, “Y’all think you could say anything to us we haven’t already heard before 1000 times?”
Her message was clear: happiness and success come from love and acceptance, not from tearing others down.

Bunnie’s stance reflects a broader truth about online negativity.

“Happy people don’t hate, and hating people aren’t happy,” she remarked, underscoring the futility of hateful comments.

She also highlighted that successful individuals rarely waste time belittling others online, a subtle reminder that much of the criticism comes from insecurity or envy.

The podcast host concluded her video with a powerful declaration.

“I’d rather be trashy making people feel loved, seen, and heard, than judging someone from their appearance,” she said.

She refused to accept criticism from those who have never created or contributed anything meaningful themselves.

Bunnie’s defense of herself and Jelly Roll is consistent with her history of speaking out against unfair judgments.

Earlier in the same month, she addressed comments about Jelly Roll’s dramatic weight loss.

The country star began his health journey weighing 540 pounds and has since shed more than 200 pounds.

Despite the physical transformation, Bunnie reminded critics that Jelly Roll’s essence remains unchanged.

“Girl, your man is so hot now that he lost all that weight,” she quoted a fan.

Her reply was simple but profound: “Is he? … Cause he’s always had the same face.

He’s always had the same heart.

He’s always had the same soul.

This statement highlights the importance of looking beyond superficial changes to appreciate the core qualities that define a person.

Bunnie urged people to stop living in a “Shallow Hal” world, referencing the film about judging others solely on appearance.

She warned that focusing only on physical looks might cause someone to miss out on the best love of their life.

Jelly Roll’s weight loss journey has been well documented.

He shared his progress publicly, including during a live appearance on the “Big Night AHT” show with host Pat McAfee.

In April 2025, he revealed he had lost nearly 200 pounds and aimed to lose another 100 pounds before skydiving with Bunnie.

His transformation is not just about weight but about reclaiming life and health.

At the 2023 CMA Awards, Jelly Roll spoke candidly about “starting to find a will to live” through his health journey.

He explained that he doesn’t have a specific goal but is focused on doing the right thing and feeling better each day.

Bunnie’s unwavering support throughout this journey has been evident.

She was by Jelly Roll’s side as he competed in his first 5K run in May 2024, symbolizing their shared commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

Their partnership is a testament to mutual encouragement and growth, reinforcing the message that love transcends physical appearance.

The couple’s story resonates with many who have faced adversity and judgment.

It challenges the rigid expectations often imposed by the country music scene and society at large.

Bunnie’s willingness to embrace her past and stand firm against criticism serves as an inspiration for others to do the same.

Moreover, their journey underscores the power of transformation—not just physical, but emotional and spiritual.

It reminds us that everyone deserves respect and compassion, regardless of their background or appearance.

The online backlash against Bunnie Xo reflects a broader cultural tension within country music.

Traditionally, the genre has upheld conservative values and a specific image for its artists and affiliates.

However, as the scene evolves, it increasingly embraces diversity and real-life stories that break away from conventional molds.

Bunnie and Jelly Roll embody this evolution.

Their story is one of redemption, love, and resilience that transcends stereotypes.

They remind fans and critics alike that authenticity and heart matter more than fitting into a predefined image.

In conclusion, Bunnie Xo’s response to the criticism she faced is a powerful statement about self-acceptance and love.

By sharing her story and standing by her husband, she challenges the shallow judgments often found online and in the entertainment industry.

Her message encourages people to look deeper, to appreciate transformation, and to celebrate unconditional love.

As Jelly Roll continues his health journey and their partnership grows stronger, they serve as role models for embracing change and rising above negativity.

Their story is a beacon of hope for anyone who has ever felt judged or marginalized.

In a world quick to criticize, Bunnie Xo’s voice is a refreshing reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the power of standing tall in the face of adversity.

Her journey, alongside Jelly Roll’s, is far more than a tale of physical transformation—it is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for growth, love, and redemption.