In Memory and Love: Snoop Dogg’s Journey with His Grandchildren, Including His Late Grandchild

Snoop Dogg, known as an icon on stage, shows his softer side as a grandfather, embracing joy, coping with loss, and demonstrating deep, unwavering love for his family.

Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., has not only built a remarkable music career but also established himself as a devoted family man. Married to Shante Broadus since 1997, he is a father to four children: Corde (30), Cordell (27), Cori (25), and Julian (26), his son from a previous relationship.

As Snoop Dogg’s family has expanded, he’s become a proud grandfather, cherishing each grandchild’s unique place in his life. He is particularly committed to honoring the memory of one grandchild who passed away, keeping their legacy alive within the family.

In 2007, while promoting his reality show Snoop Dogg’s Father Hood, Snoop Dogg offered insights into his family values, aiming to showcase a different side of hip-hop artists as devoted family men.

In an interview with People, Snoop Dogg shared how he connects with his children through music, saying, “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 fatherhood, he noted that while many rappers grew up without fathers, they become dedicated fathers themselves, adding, “We don’t ever get commended for that. We become real men when we get to this level we’re at right now.”

LOS ANGELES, CA – JULY 16: (L-R) Cordell Broadus, Snoop Dogg, Cori Broadus and Corde Broadus arrive at a special screening of DreamWorks Animation “TURBO” for the Snoop Youth Football League at the Arclight Theatre on July 16, 2013 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

As a coach for Season 26 of The Voice, Snoop Dogg has maintained close involvement with his family as it continues to grow. In a 2015 interview with Today, he humbly rated himself as “about a 7-plus” as a father, acknowledging there were still areas he hoped to improve.

Snoop Dogg emphasized the depth of his bond with his children, saying, “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.”

When discussing his role as a grandfather, Snoop described his approach as lenient, calling himself a “gullible, get-away-with-everything kind of grandpa.” Reflecting on his first experience as a grandparent, he shared, “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.”

HOLLYWOOD – JULY 19: Rapper Snoop Dogg, Shante Broadus and Corde Calvin Broadus arrive at the 2010 VH1 Do Something! Awards held at the Hollywood Palladium on July 19, 2010 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/WireImage)

The “Boss’ Life” rapper places great importance on his extended family. In January 2024, he discussed his grandkids on The Jennifer Hudson Show, revealing that each of them calls him “Papa Snoop.” This affectionate name originated from a nickname his eldest grandson gave him when he was a young child.

Snoop Dogg expressed his deep love for his grandkids, saying, “[My grandkids are] different ages, ranges, [and] sizes and I love them all the same way.” He mentioned that he was on his way to his oldest grandson’s birthday party, adding, “Actually, my oldest [grandson’s] birthday is today.” He reminisced about how his oldest grandchild initially called him “Papa Noop” because he had trouble pronouncing “Snoop” before eventually learning to say it correctly.

Snoop Dogg faced the heartbreaking loss of his grandson, Kai Love, who passed away at just 10 days old in September 2019. This tragedy has left a lasting impact on him and his family. In response to the loss, Snoop shared a heartfelt message on social media, reposting a text that read, “If you’re facing something you don’t understand: Choose to trust God. Remember all He has done for you. His ways are higher than ours. He is always good.”

The post featured a virtual heart reaction, symbolizing Snoop’s enduring faith during his family’s profound sorrow. It garnered an outpouring of support from netizens, who shared empathetic comments. One user wrote, “Soooo sorry for the loss of your grandbaby… Children are such a precious gift from God, but sometimes he takes them back… sweet precious little Kai RIP… God bless and comfort all who love him…❤️🙏🏻.” Another commented, “Sorry for your [loss.] God Bless🙏🏽🙏🏽.” A third user expressed, “Prayers for you and family.”

Kai’s parents, Snoop’s son Corde Broadus and his wife, Soraya Love, were devastated by the loss of their son. On what would have been Kai’s fourth birthday, Soraya shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, expressing the depth of her grief and her newfound sense of purpose following the tragedy.

In her tribute, Soraya Love wrote, “Happy heavenly birthday to my 1st son Kai Love who passed away 9-15-2019.” She shared the profound pain of losing a child due to a congenital heart defect, expressing her sorrow while also reflecting on the purpose she found in the experience. Soraya added, “…I know God used this painful time in our family’s life, knowing I will use that to help those in need of that knowledge of GOD and SELF [sic].”

Soraya’s post also highlighted how her son’s passing inspired her to pursue a purposeful life focused on wellness, spirituality, and community support. She emphasized her commitment to using her experience to help others and make a positive impact in their lives.

Soraya explained, “The pain of losing a child you created in YOUR body is a very traumatic feeling that never goes away… since that moment, God has guided my steps and shown me a deeper soul purpose… to get close to God, improve your heart health through lifestyle choices, relationship standards, family dynamic, generational curse breaking; food choices, self-love, serving those in need of help mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally [sic].” This reflects her commitment to healing and helping others through her own journey of grief.

In honor of Kai’s legacy, Corde and Soraya established the “Kai Heart Foundation,” an organization dedicated to spreading love and healing through community support. The foundation aims to make a positive impact by helping others and raising awareness about heart health and wellness.

In a March 2024 post, Soraya expressed their desire to collaborate with organizations that focus on healing, education, and support, stating, “We would love to partner with any Organizations that help heal – educate – assist humans with LOVE 🙏🏽 this is our soul purpose and want to keep giving back to the community in any way we can ♥️[sic].” This reflects their commitment to continuing Kai’s legacy by positively impacting others.

In a December 2022 post, Soraya elaborated on the mission of the Kai Heart Foundation, stating, “Started Kai Heart Foundation in 2019 after my son Kai passed away at 10 days from a heart defect… He inspired me to help other mothers, men, women, and children in the world through acts of LOVE + healthy lifestyle [sic].” This underscores her dedication to using Kai’s memory to make a difference in the lives of others.

Soraya expressed gratitude for the guidance she feels from Kai and her faith, inviting community support by saying, “Today was magical love you all, and if you want to donate for the next event, let me know 🙏🏽💜☀️ [sic].” This reflects her appreciation for the love and support she receives while continuing to honor her son’s legacy.

Soraya Love with her kids, as seen in a post dated December 24, 2022 | Source: Instagram/sorayaspanish

Despite the immense joy and heartache surrounding the loss of baby Kai, Snoop Dogg continues to cherish his growing family, with each grandchild bringing unique joy and purpose to his life.

Snoop stepped into the role of grandfather for the first time with the arrival of his grandson, Zion Kalvin Broadus, in January 2015. Zion was born to Snoop’s son Corde Broadus, who also goes by Kalvin Love, and his then-girlfriend Jessica Kyzer, marking the start of Snoop’s journey as a grandparent.

Proudly sharing the news of Zion’s birth, Snoop posted a video with the caption, “Proud grandad. My son spank n grandson Zion !!🍼🙏🌟✨Jah bless.” Now 9 years old, Zion serves as a constant reminder of the family’s growth and Snoop’s commitment to his role as “Papa Snoop.”

Eleven Love Broadus is Snoop Dogg’s granddaughter, born to his son Corde Broadus and his partner Soraya Love. Eleven’s birth added another layer of joy to Snoop’s family, and she continues to be a cherished part of his life. If you’d like more information about her or related topics, just let me know!

Soraya Love with her daughter Elleven, as seen in a post dated August 17, 2023 | Source: Instagram/sorayaspanish

In 2023, Soraya celebrated Elleven’s fifth birthday with a heartfelt Instagram post, writing, “HAPPY 5th BORN DAY TO MY 1st BORN E11EVEN🤩☺️😍 this old soul/young Queen taught me how to be a mom when I didn’t even know how to change a diaper [sic].” This expresses her deep love and appreciation for her daughter and the joy Elleven brings to her life.

Soraya Love’s little daughter Elleven, as seen in a post dated August 17, 2023 | Source: Instagram/sorayaspanish
Soraya Love with her daughter Elleven, as seen in a post dated August 17, 2023 | Source: Instagram/sorayaspanish

Soraya reflected on how Elleven brought healing and love into her life, describing her as having a “Leo strength, nurturing Mama Mina spirit.” Elleven’s arrival marked a new chapter for Snoop’s family, with her presence contributing to the family’s legacy and adding to the joy and unity among its members.

Cordoba Journey Broadus, born in March 2019 to Snoop’s son Cordell Broadus and his wife Phia, is now 5 years old. She has had her own special public moments with Snoop, including an appearance at a Chanel fashion show in May 2023, where she accompanied her grandfather. This outing showcased the close-knit relationship they share, reflecting the strong family bonds within Snoop’s life.

Cordoba Journey Broadus, as seen in a post dated May 11, 2023 | Source: Instagram/cbroadus
Cordoba Journey Broadus, as seen in a post dated May 11, 2023 | Source: Instagram/cbroadus

At the Chanel fashion show, Cordoba Journey Broadus looked stylish in a sleek black leather jacket and a white top featuring Chanel’s iconic logo. She accessorized with pearl necklaces and white sunglasses, highlighting her budding fashion sense as she accompanied her stylish granddad, Snoop Dogg. Their appearance together emphasized their close bond and shared appreciation for fashion.

In February 2021, Snoop’s family welcomed another member with the birth of Sky Love Broadus, the third child of Corde and Soraya. Snoop’s wife, Shante Broadus, affectionately known as “Mama Tae” to her grandchildren, shared a video of the newborn, captioning it, “I’m So Happy My 5th GrandBaby Boy Was Born Today 💙💙 [sic].”

Sky’s arrival brought additional joy to the family, and Soraya later reflected on his impact, describing how he transformed her into a “warrior in all aspects of life.” This sentiment underscores the deep love and strength that Sky has inspired within their family.

In March 2021, Chateau Broadus was born to Cordell and Phia, further expanding Snoop’s family. Her arrival was celebrated by Shante, who shared her joy in a post, saying, “I Was Down Earlier But She Just Took All Of That Away 😍😍 My 6th GrandBaby Girl #ChateauBroadus 😍😍 [sic].” Chateau’s birth brought joy and light to the family, marking yet another cherished addition to Snoop’s legacy.

In May 2023, Snoop welcomed his youngest grandchild, Symphony Sol, introducing her on Instagram with the caption, “Newborn member of the Broadus clan @cbroadus 👏🏿🐾🔥💖 Symphony Sol😘.” This joyful announcement highlighted Snoop’s excitement about adding another member to the Broadus family.

Shante, as proud as ever, shared her own tribute to Symphony Sol, writing, “Alexa Play ‘Baby, Baby, Baby’ By TLC This Mother’s Day We Recieved The Best Gift! 👶🏽 Mama Tae In Full Effect. New Baby! New Blessings [sic]!” This heartfelt message expressed her joy and excitement about welcoming the newest member of the family, emphasizing the love and blessings that come with each new addition.

Cordell and Phia had previously announced Symphony’s upcoming arrival with a family photo shoot in December 2022, showcasing the strong familial bonds that Snoop values deeply. This thoughtful announcement reflected the family’s close-knit nature and the joy they anticipated with Symphony’s birth.

Cordell Broadus and his wife Phia, as seen in a post dated December 1, 2022 | Source: Instagram/cbroadus
Cordell Broadus and Phia with their kids, as seen in a post dated December 1, 2022 | Source: Instagram/cbroadus

Through every joy and sorrow, Snoop Dogg’s commitment to his family shines brightly. Each grandchild represents not just a new member of the Broadus family but also a legacy of love, resilience, and unity.

From his own children to his growing number of grandchildren, Snoop’s unwavering dedication to family grounds him and keeps him connected to his roots, embodying the role of “Papa Snoop.” His relationships with his loved ones highlight the importance of family in his life and the joy they bring him.