On Sunday, Natalia shared a video of herself lip-syncing to Swift’s emotionally resonant track Nothing New (Taylor’s Version) alongside three close friends. The group, all clad in matching white minidresses, celebrated their recent USC graduation with big smiles and joyful energy. Among those who noticed and liked the video was none other than Swift herself.
Natalia’s choice of lyrics struck a powerful chord, especially for someone stepping into a new chapter of life. She chose the verse, “How can a person know everything at 18 but nothing at 22? And will you still want me when I’m nothing new?” — lyrics that reflect the uncertainty and vulnerability many feel at such a pivotal moment.
Natalia’s graduation was filled with emotional tributes to her late father, who died tragically in 2020 in a helicopter crash that also claimed the lives of her 13-year-old sister, Gianna, and six others. During the commencement ceremony, Natalia paid homage to Kobe in several subtle yet powerful ways.
Her mother, Vanessa Bryant, shared a video from the graduation ceremony, which captured the heartfelt tributes. One especially meaningful detail was embroidered on Natalia’s graduation sash: “Thank you, Mom & Dad,” stitched in USC’s traditional cardinal and gold. The sash also featured Kobe’s custom sheath logo — a symbol he once said, in a 2014 Esquire interview, was inspired by a samurai sword and represented “raw talent.”
The graduation marked a milestone moment for the Bryant family, especially given the immense loss they’ve endured. Natalia, who has grown up in the public eye following her father’s NBA fame and tragic death, has increasingly stepped into her own spotlight, balancing college life, modeling, and tributes to her father’s legacy.
Taylor Swift’s small gesture of support by liking the video resonated with fans across both her and the Bryant family’s followers. The shared sentiment behind the lyrics and the moment of celebration offered a touching blend of admiration and emotional depth.
As Natalia embarks on the next chapter of her life, she continues to honor her father’s legacy while forging her own path now with a nod of support from one of the world’s biggest music icons.