Natalia Bryant
After the 2020 helicopter crash that claimed her father, Kobe Bryant, and her sister Gianna, the eldest daughter has turned her grief into a drive to honor their memories while building her own path. She is a sophomore at the University of Southern California, a signed model with IMG, and a public figure who keeps Kobe’s legacy alive in everyday moments.
At a Glance
- Born January 19, 2003 to Kobe and Vanessa Bryant.
- Lost father and sister in 2020, still active in their memory.
- Balances USC studies, IMG modeling, and public appearances.
- 2024: Publicly discusses balancing school and modeling.
- 2024: Continues to honor Kobe’s legacy through fashion and charity.
Rising From Tragedy
The 2020 tragedy left Natalia and her family devastated, but it also forged a close-knit support network. Her mother, Vanessa, and younger sisters Capri and Bianka have been central to her resilience.
- Vanessa praised Natalia’s role as a “right-hand woman” while juggling grief, senior year, college applications, and a modeling contract.
- In a 2021 interview, Natalia said, “You do the best that you can…trying to keep that memory for them.”
- The family’s bond is highlighted during public events, such as the 2023 handprint ceremony at TCL Chinese Theatre.
Balancing College and Modeling
Natalia enrolled at USC in August 2021, a move that coincided with signing her first modeling contract with IMG. She has spoken openly about the challenges of being a full-time student while pursuing a career in fashion.
- In February 2024, she told PEOPLE, “If someone says being a full-time student is not difficult, they’re lying because it is.”
- She stresses the importance of a support team, saying, “Having a great support team, family and friends has been the most important thing.”
- Her modeling debut on the runway occurred at the Versace show during Milan Fashion Week in September 2023.
Key Milestones
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2021 | Signed with IMG Models at 18 |
| 2023 | Handprints ceremony at TCL Chinese Theatre |
| 2023 | First pitch at Dodgers’ Lakers Night |
| 2024 | Discusses balancing school and modeling |
Keeping Legacy Alive
Natalia’s public tributes to Kobe and Gianna are both personal and symbolic. She wears necklaces that carry his nickname and a quote from the Mamba Foundation.
- In a December 2022 Vogue video, she explained the “Slim” necklace and the “Dedication makes dreams come true” piece.
- At the 2023 handprint ceremony, she said, “Dad, you’re an icon…the best girl dad any young woman could ever dream of.”
- She also threw the first pitch at the Dodgers’ “Lakers Night,” wearing a jersey embroidered with Kobe’s Lakers numbers, No. 8 and No. 24.
Red-Carpet Presence
Beyond the runway, Natalia has become a regular on red-carpet events. Her appearances span film premieres, fashion galas, and award shows.
- December 2022: Walked the red carpet at the Babylon premiere in an asymmetrical bronze gown.
- Attended the Met Gala, where she wore a gown chosen by Anna Wintour.
- Appeared at the 2022 CDFA Awards and other high-profile events.
Family and Friends
Natalia’s close relationships extend beyond her immediate family. She has been photographed with celebrities such as Brooklyn Beckham, Nicola Peltz, Ciara, La La Anthony, and Timothée Chalamet.
- She attended Brooklyn and Nicola’s wedding in April 2022, captioning the photo with gratitude.
- Ciara shared a video of the two playing football together in 2020.
- At the 2021 Met Gala, Natalia posed with Ciara and Timothée, and they reunited at the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party in 2022.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Natalia has set a clear vision for her future. In a January 2024 interview with Town & Country, she emphasized continuous growth and legacy.
- She said, “In terms of legacy, my main goal is just to be the best version of me that I possibly can.”
- She added, “You just have to keep pushing and being the best person you can be and soaking everything up like a sponge…The job’s never done.”
- Her ongoing internship with Beyoncé’s Parkwood Entertainment and past work on the Ivy Park campaign signal a commitment to expanding her influence in music and fashion.
Key Takeaways
- Natalia Bryant balances a demanding academic schedule with a fast-growing modeling career.
- She actively honors her father’s memory through public events, jewelry, and charitable work.
- Her strong family support and friendships with high-profile figures provide a robust network.
- With an eye on continuous self-improvement, she remains poised to shape her legacy and inspire others.
