Dailymail.com, D. (2021, February 09). Natalia Bryant has signed with Img MODELS: ‘EVER since I can remember I wanted to model’. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-9239071/Natalia-Bryant-signed-IMG-Models-remember-wanted-model.html (Note: this website has retrieved this image from IMG’s official Instagram page) 

Stephanie Logue 

szl414@psu.edu

On Instagram, IMG Models announced Monday that it is now featuring Natalia Bryant. The 18-year-old daughter of Kobe Bryant, the late retired NBA star, and Vanessa Bryant.  “I have always been interested in fashion since a very young age. I have a love for the industry and ever since I can remember I wanted to model,” Bryant said in a statement. “There is a lot to learn but I feel this is a great opportunity for me to learn and express myself creatively.” “I am beyond thrilled and so honored to be a part of the IMG family! “Bryant said, she also confirmed the news via Instagram stories.

 Along with much fan support, other models/stars have reached out to congratulate her. Some celebrities include Singer Ciara and television personality, La La Anthony. 

“So Beautiful @nataliabryant So excited for you sunshine @imgmodels @vanessabryant,” Ciara added. “My niece has officially signed with @imgmodels,” Anthony, who is married to NBA star Carmelo Anthony, said “@nataliabryant I’m so excited and proud of you. Beautiful from the inside out! Just like ur momma @vanessabryant.”Ashley Graham commented, “Yay! Welcome to the IMG fam,” while actress Lucy Hale added, “Congrats gorgeous! This just makes total sense.” Lily Aldridge, Jennifer Garner, Gigi Hadid, and Cindy Crawford were among the many others who congratulated the budding model.

Some fans even spotted that the young star is blessed to have her family’s support as Natalia’s mother also commented “@nataliabryant I’m so happy for you! I love you Nani!” Vanessa Bryant. Bryant’s contract news came soon after her 18th birthday, which was in January  In a tribute on Instagram, Vanessa Bryant wished her a happy birthday. “Mommy and Daddy are so proud of the young lady that you are. You have displayed so much strength and grace throughout the most difficult year of our lives.” “You’re such an incredible big sister and a beautiful role model to so many people,” she added. “Thank you for being kind, polite and gracious in everything that you do. You have no idea how happy and proud mommy and daddy are that you’re our daughter.”.

With her agency, IMG Models will focus on building Bryant’s profile through editorial and brand endorsements, noted the agency. “Natalia has such a bright future ahead of her, and we were taken aback by her beauty, talent and drive from our first encounter,” said IMG Models’ senior vice president Maja Chiesi. “We’re honored to partner with Natalia in shaping her career in fashion and beauty, and we look forward to connecting her with fresh, exciting opportunities that showcase her multifaceted personality and look.”

Fortunately, Natalia’s going to be with a good company like IMG who is known to have a reputation for teaming with unproblematic and successful role models., she will be joining Amanda Gorman and Ella Emhoff as some of the most recent signs of the agency. After catching the country’s attention at the Presidential Inauguration, both Amanda and Ella joined IMG in late January. 

Sources: 

Ashley Boucher February 08, & Boucher, A. (2021, February 08). Natalia Bryant signs with Img Models: ‘i am Beyond Thrilled’. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://people.com/style/natalia-bryant-signs-with-img-models/

Good Morning America. (n.d.). Kobe Bryant’s daughter NATALIA signs with IMG Models. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/style/story/kobe-bryants-daughter-natalia-signs-img-models-75800993

Khan, A. (2021, February 09). Natalia Bryant signs with IMG Models. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://www.teenvogue.com/story/natalia-bryant-img-models

Southwick, H. (2021, February 09). Kobe Bryant’s daughter NATALIA signs with IMG Models. Retrieved February 12, 2021, from https://pagesix.com/2021/02/09/kobe-bryants-daughter-natalia-signs-with-img-models/