The world was shocked by the recent passing of former NBA superstar Kobe Bryant, who died in a helicopter crash on January 26, 2020 alongside his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. In tribute to Kobe’s passing, social media users have started the hashtag, “girldad.” The hashtag originates from a 2018 ESPN interview with Elle Duncan, Kobe said, “I would have five more girls if I could, I am a girl dad.” Kobe had five girls with his wife, Vanessa Bryant before his passing. 

The hashtag has been used over 100,000 times across Twitter and Instagram by celebrities, athletes, and girl dads wanting to express their love for their daughters. From Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to Lincon Riley, social media users have been using this hashtag for the last two months. #girldad had been #1 trending on Twitter for 2 weeks.

The death of Kobe Bryant has caused everyone in the world to stop, look around, and appreciate our loved ones a little more, because no one can know when tragic events like this will occur. “Kobe may be gone, but his legacy will live on forever.” said James Rapien. Kobe‘s death has brought people from all backgrounds together.

Athletes from all around the world have posted to social media remembering Kobe, the outside of the Staples Center was filled with flowers, jerseys, and other memorabilia of Kobe. In the NBA All Star Game, both teams wore #2 and #24 in honor of Gianna and Kobe, and the All Star game MVP was renamed to the “Kobe Bryant Most Valuable Player Award.” Harbor Day School, where Gianna attended, held an assembly for their late classmate in remembrance her.

Kobe and Gianna Bryant’s death was shocking and painful for sports fans and especially those close to the Bryant family. Since their passing. the Bryant’s Foundation has raised over $42 million that helps out inner-city kids with after school programs. Kobe is gone but the lessons he taught many along the way will never be forgotten, such as being a great role model as a father and showing that hard work and determination can help you to accomplish anything.