Vanessa was known as the “Queen Mamba” to Kobe’s “Black Mamba.” They were married for nearly 20 years and had four daughters together. Their relationship had challenges, but they remained committed to each other.
Young Vanessa
Vanessa Urbieta Cornejo Laine was born on May 5, 1982, in Los Angeles. She was a quiet and family-focused child. She lived with her mother and sister after her parents separated. Her father moved to Baja, Mexico, and she later took her stepfather’s last name, Laine.
A Chance in the Spotlight
In 1999, Vanessa was spotted at a concert and asked to appear in a music video. That summer, she was featured in a music video alongside Snoop Dogg and Tha Eastsidaz for the song “G’d Up.”
Meeting Kobe
That same year, 17-year-old Vanessa met 19-year-old Kobe Bryant while on the set of another music video. A day later, Kobe asked for her phone number, and she agreed.
First Date at Disneyland
Their first date was at Disneyland. With Kobe being famous, bodyguards accompanied them. Over time, security became a normal part of their outings, and reporters often followed Vanessa, which she found overwhelming.
A Trip to Italy
In 2004, after a tough period in their marriage, Kobe took Vanessa and their daughter Natalia on vacation to Rome. The trip gave them time to reconnect as a family.
The Diamond Ring
During this time, Vanessa was seen wearing a new $4 million, 8-carat purple diamond ring. It was widely believed to be a gift from Kobe to show his commitment to their marriage.
A Meaningful Tattoo
Later that year, Kobe got a tattoo of Vanessa’s name above angel wings on his arm. He described it as a symbol of his love for her.
A Difficult Loss
In a 2015 documentary, Kobe shared that Vanessa had a miscarriage years earlier. He believed the stress in their lives had played a role.
Pregnant Again
Vanessa later became pregnant again and was happy to share the news in early 2006. She looked joyful in a photo taken in April, a month before their second daughter was born.
Gianna’s Arrival
Their second daughter, Gianna, was born three years after Natalia. Vanessa and the girls often attended Lakers games to support Kobe.
A Tragic Day
On January 26, 2020, Kobe and 13-year-old Gianna lost their lives in a helicopter crash. The accident claimed nine lives, and tributes poured in from fans and celebrities.
Honoring Kobe and Gianna
Vanessa later shared a message about her loss, describing them as “our beautiful blessings taken from us too soon.” She announced a fund to help the families of the others affected by the tragedy.
A Public Tribute
She spoke at a public memorial, saying, “We will not be able to see Gigi go to high school. I won’t be able to see her wedding day.”
Their Last Photoshoot
In late 2019, Vanessa and Kobe had a photoshoot together. The images captured their bond as they prepared to step into a new year as a family. It would be their final shoot together.
