Few names in American music are as instantly recognizable as Snoop Dogg. Born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. on October 20, 1971, he burst onto the West Coast hip-hop scene in the early 1990s and quickly became a household name through his chart-topping hits, distinctive vocal style, and charismatic personality. Over the years, Snoop has expanded his reach beyond music, delving into television, film, cooking shows, and even sports commentary. Yet for all his public visibility, there is a quieter side to his life that fans sometimes overlook: his role as a husband, father, and grandfather.
Early Life and Marriage
Snoop grew up in Long Beach, California, where he discovered an early talent for rapping. His lyrical prowess and laid-back persona helped him garner attention from influential artists, paving the way for a record deal and stardom. In 1997, Snoop married his high school sweetheart, Shante Broadus. Their relationship would go on to weather many storms, ultimately standing the test of time as one of the more enduring marriages in the entertainment business.
The couple’s union brought three children into the world:
- Corde Broadus – the eldest son, born in 1994.
- Cordell Broadus – born in 1997.
- Cori Broadus – their youngest daughter, born in 1999.
Additionally, Snoop is father to another son, Julian Broadus, from a separate relationship. Today, all of his children are adults carving their own paths. Each one has inherited a blend of ambition, creativity, and a strong bond with family—values Snoop and Shante have worked diligently to instill.
Stepping into Fatherhood
By the time Snoop had risen to international fame, he was simultaneously learning how to navigate the responsibilities of parenthood. In 2007, he even ventured into reality television with a series titled Snoop Dogg’s Father Hood, offering fans a glimpse of his life offstage. Viewers saw the rapper in distinctly un-celebrity-like moments: guiding his children, joking around the house, and demonstrating genuine affection and concern for their well-being.
During media rounds to promote the show, Snoop was candid about the challenges of balancing a high-profile career with fatherhood. Yet he also spoke of the joy it brought him and the significance of setting a positive example. He noted that many hip-hop artists of his generation grew up without a father figure, underscoring his determination to be a present, loving dad. This responsibility became a pillar of his identity, influencing not only his personal life but also how he conducted himself in the public eye.
Becoming “Papa Snoop”
While many fans primarily recognize Snoop as an iconic rapper and laid-back personality, those close to him know that he cherishes his role as a grandparent. His grandchildren call him “Papa Snoop,” a name bestowed by his eldest grandson when the youngster struggled to pronounce “Snoop” correctly, blurting out “Papa Noop” before eventually settling on “Papa Snoop.”
Over the years, Snoop has spoken warmly about how being a grandfather has reshaped his perspective on family, time, and legacy. He admits to being the kind of grandpa who’s softhearted and indulgent, gladly letting his grandkids “get away with everything.” The same man who once projected a hard edge on stage and in music videos now lights up when recalling birthdays, holidays, and small everyday moments spent in the company of his grandchildren.
Joy and Tragedy
Sadly, not all of Snoop’s experiences with grandfatherhood have been joyous. In September 2019, the Broadus family faced a devastating loss. Snoop’s grandson, Kai Love, passed away at only ten days old. Kai was the son of Snoop’s eldest child, Corde, and his partner, Soraya.
In the aftermath of losing Kai, Snoop posted a poignant message about trusting in a higher plan even when circumstances seemed impossible to understand. He reminded everyone that, although some challenges are beyond comprehension, his faith in God helped him endure and find strength. The heartbreaking news also prompted an outpouring of support from fans worldwide, who offered condolences, prayers, and heartfelt messages to the grieving family.
Kai’s mother, Soraya, later described how the loss of her son led her to delve deeper into a life of spirituality, wellness, and community support. She spoke candidly about the pain of losing a child, emphasizing how that trauma reverberates throughout one’s life. Rather than letting the despair overwhelm her, Soraya channeled her sorrow into founding the “Kai Heart Foundation,” an organization focusing on spreading love and facilitating healing within communities.
Holding On to Precious Memories
Even though Kai’s life was heartbreakingly short, the Broadus family honors him in meaningful ways. Whether they share reflections on social media or quietly remember him in private moments, it’s clear that his memory lives on. Soraya’s heartfelt tributes, posted on days like Kai’s birthday, speak of a mother’s unwavering love and the power of keeping hope alive through personal growth. She often writes about how losing Kai ignited a deeper purpose in her: to educate, help, and inspire others—particularly those grappling with tragedy—to find a path forward.
Snoop has also alluded to Kai’s impact on the family. Though he generally keeps his grief close, he occasionally shares philosophical or spiritual reflections, suggesting that the lessons learned through pain can be used for strength and unity. Even as he continues making music and appearing in a wide range of media, the rapper’s perspective on life has undoubtedly been shaped by this experience.
Welcoming New Life
Despite the tragedy of losing Kai, the Broadus family has experienced plenty of uplifting events as well. Snoop’s grandchildren—Zion, Elleven, Cordoba, Sky, Chateau, and Symphony—bring joy and new beginnings to the family.
- Zion arrived in 2015, born to Corde and his then-partner, Jessica. Snoop was ecstatic, posting celebratory videos and pictures of the new arrival.
- Elleven joined the family in 2018, again with Corde as the father and Soraya as the mother.
- Cordoba was born the following year, further expanding the branch of the Broadus clan.
- In 2021, Sky arrived, adding even more excitement to Snoop’s growing brood of grandkids.
- Meanwhile, Snoop’s son Cordell and his partner Phia welcomed Chateau in 2021.
- Most recently, in 2022, the family celebrated the birth of Symphony Sol, introduced on social media by the proud grandpa himself.
Each of these grandchildren brings a unique spirit to the Broadus family. Whenever Snoop speaks about them—at events or in interviews—his face lights up, and his voice carries a gentle fondness. He celebrates each birthday, milestone, and accomplishment with unwavering enthusiasm, often crediting his wife Shante, nicknamed “Mama Tae” by the grandbabies, for being the constant, nurturing presence that keeps everyone together.
Family First
A crucial theme that underlies Snoop’s public and private personas is the importance of family. He has never been shy about expressing love for his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended relatives. Amid the glitz of fame and the chaos of the entertainment world, this focus on family offers him stability and motivation.
Even as he diversifies his career—hosting television shows, appearing in commercials, venturing into entrepreneurial endeavors—Snoop ensures that his loved ones remain a top priority. From spontaneous shout-outs during interviews to quiet gatherings at home, he nurtures these connections as a foundation for everything else in his life.
The Enduring Influence of Loss and Love
Losing a grandchild is a heartbreak that no parent or grandparent should have to face, and the Broadus family’s experience underscores the fragility of life. Yet, in this difficult chapter, they discovered a renewed appreciation for every precious moment. Kai’s short life serves as a reminder of the importance of treasuring loved ones and not taking a single day for granted.
For Snoop, the heartbreak of Kai’s passing has been woven into an ongoing story of resilience, unity, and faith. By continuing to advocate for positivity, hope, and family togetherness, he turns personal sorrow into empathy for others facing similar tragedies. Watching him celebrate new births and watch his grandchildren thrive is proof of a deeper wisdom he has gained over the years—that in times of overwhelming sadness, the best path forward is often found in supporting those still with us, honoring those we have lost, and staying true to the love that defines us.
A Loving Legacy
Snoop Dogg’s journey from young Long Beach rapper to international icon and grandfather is a testament to evolution. Despite the setbacks and challenges—and the unimaginable pain of losing a beloved grandchild—he remains steadfastly devoted to his family. Embracing his “Papa Snoop” moniker, he continues to nurture new generations, teaching them about love, perseverance, and the power of unity.
As fans and onlookers, we see a performer who has balanced fame with genuine warmth, staying grounded in the simple joys of home and kinship. Through both joyous events and heartbreaking losses, Snoop Dogg reminds us that even a superstar can be, at heart, a dedicated family man, treasuring each moment he spends with the people who matter most. And in that abiding commitment to love—despite adversity—lies the real story of his remarkable life.