Remembering Kobe

The news of Kobe Bryant has monumentally affected the industry we work and world we live in more ways than we can fathom. World leaders, athletes, business tycoons, news media, philanthropists, and many others from around the globe have reflected on the impact Kobe had in their lives and communities. His passing and the far-reaching effect of this sudden loss has been felt in ways that remind us of the world stopping events of Michael Jackson, Princess Diana, and John Lennon. Children that emulated the Kobe swagger as they donned his shoes or made a fade away jumper; to older generations that leaned forward watching his every move on the court; to a new league of fans that were captured by his storytelling and commitment all feel this loss differently, yet all lead back to being captivated by his passion, diligence, and dedication.

I had the opportunity to meet Kobe a few times, but the first time was the most memorable. It was in 1996 while I was working at Grey and promoting the TV show, Moesha, starring Brandy when Kobe accompanied by his sister showed up on set. We were both new to Hollywood and we naturally started talking about our shared love for Philly. He was graduating that year from Lower Merion High School and asked me what it was like to be living in LA. We talked about where to find a good hoagie, watch Eagles games, and if people drive convertibles in LA - they don’t. As a LA newbie, he was genuinely excited to be on a Hollywood set but also visibly uncomfortable with being around the celebrity of Brandy and all that came with it. He was humble, yet confident. And most importantly, he was kind and respectful. Who would’ve thought that he’d become the global icon that he is today. He certainly did.  

I happen to be in LA on the day of the tragic accident when I received the call from my son who broke the news as I was driving. I thought he was kidding at first. Then I thought it was a ridiculous rumor. Then, it became a reality.

This was Grammy day. A day that I have experienced many times and a day that usually carries with it a feeling of electricity in the air. Hotels, restaurants, gyms, and streets would typically be buzzing with excitement. However, this past Sunday, it was eerily quiet. To us east coasters it felt like a day of driving with a new coat of snow on the road. Quiet. No honking. No shouting. No music. No clinking of plates and glasses. It felt like time stood still.

That evening, in downtown LA there were projections of Kobe all over the arena and the blocks surrounding. Inside, Kobe’s jerseys were illuminated and there was an overarching feeling of communal shock and sadness. The news of Kobe became the only conversation to have - it took over any Grammy winning performance, any awards won, and certainly any other industry conversation.

On my way back to the east coast, I thought to myself - what, if any, positivity could come from this tremendous loss. It would be too soon to opine on a lesson learned or an inspirational interpretation. But what could be realized from this is a simple appreciation for what is in front of us. Our work, our friends, our family, our hobbies, even our problems- all make us who we are. Taking a moment to send thoughts to the families affected by this tragedy is incredibly important. Just as important as it is for us to take a moment to appreciate what we have.

We will certainly miss the magic Kobe gave all of us. He was a super star in every way and his love for his work, his family, and his commitment to making positive change was a priority that was genuine and inspiring. In time, and hopefully soon, we will be able to exchange sadness for motivation and honor Kobe’s legacy by doing our part to live a life of doing well and also doing good.

-JMo