Kobe: The Making of a Legend – All you need to know About the Documentary Series

Kobe: The Making of a Legend is a highly anticipated documentary that reveals the untold story behind Kobe Bryant’s extraordinary rise to greatness. This three-part series explores the unseen forces that helped shape his journey, providing an intimate look at the challenges and transformations that defined him. 

As the five-year anniversary of Kobe's tragic passing approaches, CNN is offering a fresh perspective on his early years and the foundation of his legendary career. The documentary promises to highlight key moments from his childhood and teenage years, revealing the hard work and determination that led him to superstardom. It’s an emotional and inspiring tribute to the athlete who changed the game.

Want to know more about the series and what makes it stand out? There’s much more to discover, from exclusive interviews to behind-the-scenes stories. Keep reading to find out what’s in store for Kobe: The Making of a Legend, and we’ll continue to update this article as new details emerge.

Release date & Where to Watch

The first episode of Kobe: The Making of a Legend will premiere live on CNN at 9 pm ET on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, with on-demand availability the next day. The next two episodes will air weekly on Saturdays at 9 pm ET.

What is Kobe: The Making of a Legend About?

Kobe: The Making of a Legend traces the life of Kobe Bryant, from his childhood in Italy to his rise as an NBA superstar, and explores his post-basketball aspirations as a storyteller and father. 

This three-part documentary offers an intimate look at his personal life, focusing not just on his legendary career but on the complexities that shaped him, including the "Mamba Mentality." The series features interviews with Bryant’s friends, coaches, teammates, and family, providing fresh insights into the man behind the iconic athlete.

“Five years after his passing, we are honored to share the story of Kobe Bryant—arguably one of the greatest and most competitive professional athletes of all time,” said Eric Johnson, Executive Producer for CNN Original Series in a press statement. 

Johnson added, “While his legendary career on the court is widely celebrated, this series explores some of the lesser-known dimensions of his life. We’re proud to present a deeper, more nuanced portrait of Kobe and the complicated journey that shaped his legacy.”

The documentary delves into Bryant’s early years in Italy, where his father, Joe "Jellybean" Bryant, played professional basketball. It also highlights his time at Lower Merion High School in Pennsylvania, where he was named the Pennsylvania Player of the Year before entering the 1996 NBA Draft. 

Interviews with notable figures such as New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, longtime Lakers trainer Gary Vitti, who worked with Bryant throughout his 20-year career, and others, add depth to the narrative.

The series also reveals Bryant's post-retirement transformation, focusing on his work as a storyteller and his dedication to his family. Viewers will gain insight into the challenges he faced, including cultural shifts, injuries, and personal life hurdles, all of which contributed to the man who became a global icon.

This documentary stands apart by exploring the obstacles and the personal growth that defined Bryant’s life and legacy, making it more than just a recounting of his basketball triumphs.

Who’s in the cast of Kobe: The Making of a Legend?

The CNN Original Series features basketball icons such as:

• NBA All-Star Jalen Brunson
• NBA Hall of Famer Tracy McGrady
• WNBA Hall of Famer Sheryl Swoopes
• Former Los Angeles Lakers head athletic trainer Gary Vitti

Official Trailer

The Kobe: The Making of a Legend teaser highlights Kobe Bryant's rise from high school prodigy to global icon, featuring never-before-seen interviews and personal insights into his intense work ethic, competitive spirit, and lasting legacy. 

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Episodes

• Season 1 Episode 1 (Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025)
• Season 1 Episode 2 (Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025)
• Season 1 Episode 3 (Saturday, Feb. 8, 2025)

Behind the Scenes

Kobe: The Making of a Legend is executive produced by Eric Johnson, with Amy Entelis and Katie Hinman serving as executive producers for CNN Studios.