Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee pardoned country music star Jelly Roll (real name Jason DeFord) Thursday for past felony convictions stemming from robbery and drug charges, recognizing the Nashville native's remarkable transformation through music, faith, and advocacy for second chances.
The Grammy-nominated artist, one of 33 individuals granted clemency by the Republican governor that day, met Lee in person for the first time at the Tennessee Governor's Mansion, where the two shared a hug in front of a decorated Christmas tree as the pardon was delivered.
Lee described Jelly Roll's journey as "remarkable, redemptive, and powerful," emphasizing that the decision followed a thorough review process identical to other applicants, including a unanimous nonbinding recommendation from the Tennessee Board of Parole earlier in the year.
Jelly Roll's convictions date back to his youth: an aggravated robbery at age 17 in 2002 (unarmed, but involving armed accomplices), resulting in a one-year prison sentence plus probation, and a 2008 drug possession charge (marijuana and crack cocaine) while on probation, leading to eight years of supervision. He completed his sentences years ago and has been open about his struggles with addiction and incarceration.
Jelly Roll received a pardon from Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee for various crimes he committed as a teenager and a young adult over 20 years ago. https://t.co/NyN49xxAB7 pic.twitter.com/F7mGDJdIjh
— E! News (@enews) December 19, 2025
Since rising to fame with hits like "Save Me" and albums such as Whitsitt Chapel, Jelly Roll has channeled his experiences into advocacy, testifying before Congress on the fentanyl crisis, visiting prisons to speak with inmates, donating music studios to juvenile facilities, and supporting recovery programs.
The pardon, a formal act of forgiveness in Tennessee, restores certain civil rights and eases international travel restrictions—benefits Jelly Roll has cited for his touring career and potential missionary work. Supporters, including Nashville Sheriff Daron Hall, praised his rehabilitation during the process.
This milestone caps a widely celebrated redemption story for the artist, who has frequently emphasized second chances in his music and public life.