Natalia Bryant is paying heartfelt tribute to the Black Mamba, one frame at a time. The eldest daughter of Vanessa Bryant and the late Kobe Bryant made her debut as a creative director in the Lakers' new film, Forever Iconic: Purple and Gold Around the World, weaving in a touching homage to her legendary father.
"This project was an incredible, collaborative journey with such imaginative minds," Natalia, 22, shared with People in an October 8 statement, coinciding with the film's release. "We all united our efforts to capture and convey the Lakers' profound influence, not just in Los Angeles but across the globe."
Indeed, she aspired for this brief yet impactful project to illuminate how "everyone holds a unique bond" with the Los Angeles team. And true to her vision, she spotlighted several of the Lakers' most ardent supporters in the film, including longtime fan Brenda Song. In one memorable scene, the Running Point star exuberantly cheered as she viewed a clip of Kobe—who tragically perished alongside his daughter Gianna "GiGi" Bryant, 13, and seven others in a 2020 helicopter crash—executing a flawless hook shot.
But the glimpse of Kobe's remarkable prowess wasn't the sole iconic element in this release. In fact, retired Lakers legend Magic Johnson and Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani also made cameo appearances towards the film's conclusion.
With Forever Iconic serving as a heartfelt ode to the Lakers, Natalia aims to ensure that this team's already illustrious legacy remains etched in memory forever. "I hope those who already cherish this team watch this project and are reminded of that sense of pride," she continued in her statement. "And if you're not yet a Lakers fan, I hope this inspires you to become one."
Forever Iconic marks a resounding success for Natalia, as it stands as her first official project since graduating from the University of Southern California with her film degree in May. At the time, she commemorated her academic achievement by incorporating Kobe's iconic "Sheath" logo onto her cardinal red and gold graduation stole.
As she continues to honor her father's legacy, Natalia is also fervently focused on crafting her own. "In terms of legacy," Natalia—whose younger sisters are Bianka, 8, and Capri, 6—shared with Town & Country in a January 2024 interview, "my primary objective is simply to be the best version of myself that I can possibly be."
