Snoop Dogg is legendary on stage, his role as a grandfather unveils a softer, more personal side.
Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., has forged a life beyond his music career, establishing himself as a devoted family man. Since marrying Shante Broadus in 1997, he has proudly raised four children: Corde, 30; Cordell, 27; Cori, 25; and Julian, 26, from a previous relationship.
As his family expanded, Snoop embraced his role as a grandfather, cherishing the special bond he shares with each grandchild. One of these relationships holds a profound place in his heart as he continues to honor the memory of a grandchild who passed away, a testament to his deep love and commitment to his family.
Snoop Dogg as a Family Man & a Grandfather
In 2007, while promoting his reality show Snoop Dogg’s Father Hood, Snoop Dogg, born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., opened up about his family values, aiming to reveal a lesser-seen side of hip-hop artists as family men. Speaking with People, Snoop shared, “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 remarked, “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.”
As a family man, Snoop’s dedication continued to shine. In a 2015 interview with Today, he humbly rated himself “about a 7-plus” as a father, recognizing areas for growth. “My relationship with my kids is more important than anything. It’s a friendship relationship … based on me being a father, a mentor, and a friend,” he explained.
As a grandfather, Snoop embraces a lenient approach, describing himself as a “gullible, get-away-with-everything kind of grandpa.” Recalling his first moments as a grandparent, he said, “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.”
In January 2024, he spoke on The Jennifer Hudson Show about his grandkids, sharing how each affectionately calls him “Papa Snoop”—a nickname originating from his eldest grandson’s early attempts to pronounce “Snoop.”
Snoop Dogg’s Little Grandson Passed Away
In September 2019, Snoop Dogg faced a heartbreaking loss when his grandson, Kai Love, passed away at only 10 days old. To honor his grandson’s brief life, Snoop shared a deeply emotional message on social media, reposting words centered on finding trust in God during challenging times.
The post, accompanied by a virtual heart reaction symbolizing Snoop’s resilient faith, drew an immense wave of support from his followers, who filled the comments with empathy and messages of comfort. This outpouring reflected the connection between Snoop and his fans, united in moments of both joy and sorrow.
Kai’s parents, Snoop’s son Corde Broadus and his wife, Soraya Love, were devastated by the passing of their baby boy. On what would have been Kai’s fourth birthday, Soraya shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, reflecting on her journey through grief and her evolving purpose.
“Happy heavenly birthday to my 1st son Kai Love who passed away 9-15-2019,” she wrote, opening up about the profound pain of losing a child to a congenital heart defect. Soraya continued, “…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”
Her words, filled with raw emotion, underscored her resilience and commitment to finding purpose in her grief, offering strength to others facing similar heartache.
