Country star Zach Bryan, 28, is embroiled in a storm of controversy following explosive claims made by his ex-girlfriend, Barstool Sports personality Brianna Chickenfry. The social media influencer, whose real name is Brianna LaPaglia, alleges that the Remember Everything singer offered her $12 million to stay silent about their tumultuous 15-month relationship.
Allegations Shake the Country Star’s Image
Chickenfry, 25, recently went public with details of the couple’s breakup, which occurred in October, accusing Bryan of emotional abuse and controlling behavior. She claims he criticized her friends, attempted to isolate her, and even offered her a lucrative nondisclosure agreement to keep her quiet about their romance.
According to Chickenfry, the proposed deal would have paid her $12 million over three years, on the condition that she quit her job at Barstool Sports and agreed to remain silent. She flatly rejected the offer, stating, “I will not accept any money. I think it’s beneath me.”
The fallout from their split has seen Chickenfry release a wave of allegations against the country singer, accusing him of insensitivity and emotional manipulation. She also revealed that Bryan signed up for a celebrity dating app just days after their breakup, further fueling tensions.
Diss Tracks and Public Drama
The drama escalated when Barstool Sports founder David Portnoy and Chickenfry’s podcast co-host, Josh Richards, released a parody diss track titled Small. The song took aim at Bryan’s 5-foot-8 height, his 2022 arrest for disorderly conduct during a traffic stop, and alleged personal issues.
The track quickly went viral, garnering millions of plays online and adding fuel to the fire. Chickenfry, unbothered by the backlash, defended the diss track. “If people want to say the diss track was immature, you know what’s immature? The way [Zach] treated me,” she stated in a recent podcast episode.
A Bruised Reputation
The controversy has reportedly left Bryan considering stepping back from his music career to focus on his personal life. A close friend of the singer revealed that he is contemplating a hiatus, possibly to return to college for a master’s degree.
“Zach says many of the things Brianna is saying aren’t true, but he knows that responding to her would only make him look worse,” the source said.
Despite Bryan’s silence on the matter, fans have taken to social media to share their reactions. Twitter user @CountryFan23 wrote, “Zach Bryan’s music has always been raw and honest, but this drama is hard to ignore.” Another user, @ChickenfrySupporter, commented, “Brianna deserves better. Good for her for standing up for herself!”
Fallout Continues
As the allegations continue to unfold, Bryan’s once-red-hot career faces mounting scrutiny. Chickenfry’s claims have sparked heated debates online, with fans divided over the validity of her accusations and Bryan’s role in the breakup.
The singer has yet to publicly address the allegations, leaving many to wonder how the controversy will impact his career and reputation moving forward.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.