The Death and Life of Kobe Bryant

Kobe Bryant’s death reverberated around the world, through all walks of life; his absence has been felt by those closest to him and those who knew him only from a distance. In this episode we hear personal stories from the Mayor of Los Angeles, a longtime friend from way back, and a television executive who worked with Bryant. They also reflect on the legacy they believe Bryant leaves behind. 

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Kobe Bryant left an indelible mark in the African American community. The Mayor of Los Angeles, non-profit executives and many others say when it came to philanthropy and mentoring, Bryant was one of the few celebrities who walked the walk and talked the talk. In this episode we meet the executive director of a shelter for young homeless people, a place Bryant donated his time and money; we meet a civil rights leader from the African American community who speaks about Bryant’s duty as a role model for young Black men; we talk to a close friend of Bryant’s. 

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Many people around the world have been inspired by Kobe Bryant, as an athlete, philanthropist, artist, and father. Whether it was his series of children’s books, his Oscar©-winning film, or the millions he donated to charity, people continue to be inspired by Bryant’s work ethic and creativity. We also meet one of the popular artists who paid tribute to Bryant with a massive mural on the wall of a business in Studio City, CA – painted within 24-hours of the crash. 

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The NTSB issues its final report on the probable cause of the helicopter crash and makes recommendations to prevent another one like it from happening again. We learn more about the Mamba Sports Academy, the intended destination of the group aboard the flight. And we meet Gianna Bryant's teammate.

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A city says goodbye to one of its beloved icons. Friends, family, and associates of Kobe Bryant gather at the ‘House that Kobe Built’. We hear from those who were invited to attend, including a person who recounts the emotions felt backstage. A sports journalist analyzes the missteps of the media’s coverage of the crash.  

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The National Transportation Safety Board has arrived at the crash site in Calabasas, CA. NTSB Investigators have also brought in the FBI. We also get official confirmation of the names of those on board the helicopter. 

The Los Angeles County Sheriff has some choice words for an online news outlet.  

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Hikers and bikers in the Lost Hills area of Calabasas saw an aircraft plunge into a hillside, others heard a loud pop. The terrain was so difficult to navigate that some firefighters had to be airlifted into the scene. In this episode we hear the actual 911 calls and the first briefing from the Los Angeles County Fire and Sheriff’s Departments. It’s also Grammy night. 

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Kobe Bryant, his daughter, and 7 others take a private helicopter from Orange County to the Mamba Sports Academy in Thousand Oaks, CA. This episode breaks down the conversation between air traffic controllers and pilot Ara Zobayan. 

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Trailer

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