Snoop Dogg may be renowned worldwide as a hip-hop legend, but beyond the stage, his most cherished role reveals a softer, more intimate side: that of a loving grandfather. His journey through family life is defined by immense joy, moments of profound loss, and an unwavering dedication to his loved ones.
Born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., Snoop Dogg has transcended his music career to become an emblem of family values. Married to his high school sweetheart, Shante Broadus, since 1997, he is the proud father of four children: Corde (30), Cordell (27), Cori (25), and Julian (26), the latter from a previous relationship. Over the years, his family has grown, and today he embraces his role as a grandfather with pride, love, and profound commitment, treasuring each grandchild for their unique place in his life. Yet, his journey as a grandfather has also been marked by heartbreak, particularly as he continues to honor the memory of one grandchild who passed away.
Snoop Dogg as a Family Man and Grandfather
In 2007, while promoting his reality show, Snoop Dogg’s Father Hood, Snoop shared a glimpse of his family values, offering fans an opportunity to see the oft-hidden side of a hip-hop artist as a dedicated family man.
Speaking to People magazine, he explained, “I got kids, and I always play my music for them. I like to hear what they like. They think I’m old, but I think I’m young.” Reflecting on his journey as a father, he added, “Ninety percent of rappers grew up without fathers, but you see ninety percent of those rappers becoming fathers to their kids. We don’t ever get commended for that. We become real men when we get to this level we’re at right now.”
Through the years, Snoop’s commitment to his family has remained steadfast, even as his family expanded. In a 2015 interview with Today, he rated himself as “about a 7-plus” as a father, humbly acknowledging areas where he could improve. “My relationship with my kids is more important than anything. It’s a friendship relationship … it’s based on me being a father, a mentor, and a friend,” he explained.
When asked about his role as a grandfather, Snoop described himself as a “gullible, get-away-with-everything kind of grandpa,” a role he wholeheartedly embraces. Sharing his joy during his first experience as a grandparent, he remarked, “It’s just a spark of joy just to look in his eyes and to be able to hold him. I thank my oldest son for making me a grandfather.”
A Grandfather’s Devotion Amid Loss
Snoop’s relationship with his grandchildren is deeply personal and cherished. During a 2024 appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, he explained how his grandkids lovingly call him “Papa Snoop,” a nickname bestowed by his eldest grandson in childhood. Each grandchild, he shared, brings a unique joy to his life. “They’re different ages, ranges, [and] sizes, and I love them all the same way,” he said, emphasizing the importance of family unity.
However, amid the joy of welcoming grandchildren, Snoop has also faced profound heartbreak. In September 2019, his grandson Kai Love tragically passed away at just 10 days old. Sharing his grief, Snoop posted a heartfelt message on social media, encouraging his followers to trust in God during challenging times. The post drew an outpouring of support, with many offering condolences and prayers for his family.
Kai’s parents, Snoop’s son Corde Broadus and his wife, Soraya Love, were devastated by the loss. On what would have been Kai’s fourth birthday, Soraya shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, describing the pain of losing a child due to a congenital heart defect. “The pain of losing a child you created in YOUR body is a very traumatic feeling that never goes away,” she wrote. Despite the grief, Soraya found a sense of purpose in her loss, dedicating her life to spirituality, wellness, and community support.
Inspired by Kai’s memory, Corde and Soraya founded the “Kai Heart Foundation,” an organization focused on spreading love and healing through community initiatives. Soraya elaborated on the foundation’s mission in a 2022 post, explaining, “[We want] to help other mothers, men, women, [and] children in the world through acts of LOVE + healthy lifestyle choices.”
Celebrating the Grandchildren
Snoop’s role as a grandfather began with the birth of his grandson Zion Kalvin Broadus in January 2015. Born to Corde and his then-girlfriend Jessica Kyzer, Zion marked a new chapter for Snoop, who proudly shared the news on social media. Zion, now 9 years old, remains a constant source of joy and a testament to Snoop’s evolving role as “Papa Snoop.”
In August 2018, Snoop’s family expanded with the birth of Elleven Love Broadus, Corde’s daughter with his wife, Soraya. Elleven, now 5, has brought healing and love to the family, with Soraya celebrating her as an “old soul” and a “young Queen” who taught her how to be a mother.
The arrival of Cordoba Journey Broadus in March 2019 marked another joyous milestone. Born to Snoop’s son Cordell and his wife, Phia, Cordoba has had several memorable public moments with her grandfather, including accompanying him to a Chanel fashion show in 2023. Cordoba’s budding sense of style and her close bond with Snoop highlight the family’s enduring legacy of love and connection.
In February 2021, the Broadus family grew further with the birth of Sky Love Broadus, the fifth grandchild. Sky’s arrival brought immense happiness, with Soraya describing how he transformed her into a “warrior in all aspects of life.” Just a month later, in March 2021, Chateau Broadus was born to Cordell and Phia. Shante Broadus, affectionately known as “Mama Tae” to her grandchildren, celebrated the occasion with a heartfelt tribute, expressing the joy Chateau brought to the family.
In May 2023, Snoop welcomed his youngest grandchild, Symphony Sol. Introducing her on Instagram, he described her as the newest blessing to the Broadus family. Shante echoed this sentiment, calling Symphony’s arrival the “best gift” received on Mother’s Day.
A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Snoop Dogg’s dedication to his family remains a cornerstone of his life. Through every joy and sorrow, he has embraced his role as a father and grandfather with humility, strength, and love. Each grandchild represents a continuation of the Broadus legacy, not only as a source of joy but also as a reminder of the resilience and unity that define their family.
From his children to his grandchildren, Snoop’s journey reflects an unwavering commitment to those he holds dear. His ability to balance his public persona with his private role as “Papa Snoop” serves as an inspiring reminder of the importance of family, love, and legacy.
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