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Jelly Roll Sets Bold Goal Weight with a Thrill-Seeker’s Bucket List in Sight

Jelly Roll Says He Was a '550-Lb. Zombie' Before Dramatic Weight Loss: 'Got Honest About My Food Addiction'

By Pelzang TPublished 8 months ago 4 min read
Jelly Roll in November 2023 (left) and December 2024 (right). Credit : Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty; Steve Granitz/FilmMagic

From Southern Stardom to Skydiving Dreams — The Inside Story of a Music Star on a Mission

Jelly Roll, the Grammy-nominated country-rap phenom, has never been one to play it safe — not in his music, not in his personal life, and certainly not in his dreams. But this time, it’s not about dropping a new chart-topper or selling out arenas. This time, it’s personal. Deeply personal.

In a candid revelation, Jelly Roll — real name Jason DeFord — has shared not only his goal weight but also a daring list of high-octane activities he wants to pursue once he gets there. And the journey? It’s more than just about shedding pounds — it’s about reclaiming life, health, and unfulfilled dreams.

Chapter 1: The Turning Point — “I Knew I Had to Change”

The road to transformation often begins with a moment of clarity, and for Jelly Roll, that moment came with a mix of harsh truths and hopeful resolve.

At his heaviest, he weighed over 550 pounds. That number, he admits, was more than a statistic — it was a barrier. A barrier to movement, energy, and the experiences he craved.

“I was tired. Not just physically tired, but emotionally worn out. I realized I wasn’t living — I was surviving.”

The decision wasn’t spurred by industry pressure or public opinion. It was about something deeper: the desire to do more with the life he fought so hard to build — to feel better, to be better, and to live more boldly.

Chapter 2: The Goal — “250 Pounds and a Parachute”

So, what’s the magic number? For Jelly Roll, it’s 250 pounds.

But why that number? It’s not about aesthetics or meeting industry expectations. It’s about access — specifically, access to adventure.

“There’s a weight limit on a lot of thrill-seeking stuff — skydiving, zip-lining, even horseback riding in certain places. I want to do all the stuff I’ve never let myself try.”

Once he hits that goal, Jelly Roll says he’s making skydiving his first stop — jumping from a plane somewhere scenic with his wife, Bunnie XO, cheering (or possibly screaming) alongside him. And that’s just the beginning.

His full “risky activities” list includes:

Skydiving over Sweden

Riding a mechanical bull on tour

Learning to snowboard

Swimming with sharks (yes, for real)

Going horseback riding in Montana

Alligator wrestling (we’re not sure if he’s serious — but we’re not ruling it out)

Chapter 3: The Method — A Step-by-Step Lifestyle Overhaul

Jelly Roll’s transformation didn’t come from quick-fix diets or expensive fads. It’s been slow, intentional, and sustainable. Here’s a breakdown of how he’s approaching it:

Step 1: Simplify the Diet

Forget extreme diets. Jelly Roll went back to basics.

Focus on Protein: Grilled chicken, turkey, lean beef, and protein shakes.

Low-Carb & Veggie-Rich: He cut down on bread, sugar, and fried food.

Hydration: Up to a gallon of water a day, cutting out sugary drinks entirely.

Mindful Eating: “I used to eat until I was stuffed. Now I eat until I’m satisfied.”

Step 2: Move More, Judgment Less

He started walking — daily, without pressure.

Walking 5Ks: In 2024, he completed his first 5K walk.

Progressive Training: Slowly increasing pace and endurance.

“Losers Run Club”: He formed a group to support others with similar goals, emphasizing a shame-free zone for fitness newbies.

Step 3: Mental Health as a Priority

Weight loss for Jelly Roll wasn’t just physical.

Therapy & Coaching: To address food addiction and trauma.

Meditation & Prayer: For spiritual grounding and daily focus.

Support System: His wife Bunnie, his team, and his fans — “They believed in me before I believed in myself.”

Chapter 4: A New Identity, Same Heart

As he continues to lose weight and gain momentum, Jelly Roll insists he’s still the same guy — tattoos, grit, humor, and all. But there’s something new: a sense of freedom.

“For years, I thought I couldn’t change because of who I used to be. But now I know, I get to decide who I am — every day.”

He’s already lost nearly 200 pounds and is well on his way to that 250-pound goal. The shift hasn’t just changed his wardrobe or his stamina — it’s changed his spirit.

Chapter 5: The Vision — “Men’s Health Cover in 2026”

Yes, you read that right.

Jelly Roll isn’t just aiming for personal records — he wants to make a public statement about transformation. One of his big dreams?

“I want to be on the cover of Men’s Health. I want to be their biggest transformation story ever.”

For a man who’s battled addiction, obesity, incarceration, and stigma — this isn’t vanity. It’s legacy.

Closing Thoughts: Inspiration with a Beat

In the end, Jelly Roll’s journey isn’t just about weight — it’s about courage. The courage to look in the mirror and choose change. The courage to dream bigger, jump higher, and risk more — literally.

He’s doing it for himself. For his fans. For the people who feel stuck. For the underdogs who haven’t found their first step yet.

And if all goes according to plan, the next time you hear a Jelly Roll track thundering through your speakers, he might just be free-falling through the skies somewhere — lighter, braver, and more alive than ever.

ChallengeInspirationLifeProcessShoutout

About the Creator

Pelzang T

Hi! 👋 I'm a trader 📊 and writer ✍️ who simplifies complex trading ideas into clear insights. I love sharing tips on VIP indicators, market trends, and mindset. Let’s grow together through trading and storytelling! 🚀📚

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