Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Vanessa Bryant

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 26, 2026

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Vanessa Bryant.

Vanessa Bryant, a Mexican-American businesswoman and philanthropist, is the widow of basketball legend Kobe Bryant. Together, they established the Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Foundation in 2007, offering scholarships to minority college students. She currently heads the Mamba and Mambacita Sports Foundation, which supports child athletes. After Kobe and their daughter Gianna tragically died in a helicopter crash in 2020, Vanessa filed a lawsuit against Los Angeles County, reaching a settlement in 2023. Her efforts focus on honoring her late husband and daughter while continuing their philanthropic legacy.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Controversies & Scandals

2003: Kobe Bryant's Adultery Admission

In 2003, during Kobe Bryant's sexual assault case, he admitted to cheating on Vanessa Bryant with multiple women, leading to public attention and a gift of a diamond ring.

2004: Accusation Against Karl Malone

In 2004, Vanessa Bryant accused Lakers player Karl Malone of acting inappropriately towards her, leading to controversy and media attention.

2009: Lawsuit by Housekeeper Maria Jimenez

In 2009, Vanessa Bryant was sued by her former housekeeper, Maria Jimenez, for alleged harassment and mistreatment.

2010: Settlement of Housekeeper Lawsuit

In 2010, Vanessa Bryant settled the lawsuit with her former housekeeper, Maria Jimenez, for an undisclosed amount.

December 2011: Filing for Divorce

In December 2011, Vanessa Bryant filed for divorce from Kobe Bryant, citing irreconcilable differences.

2012: Backlash Over Championship Comments

In 2012, Vanessa Bryant faced public backlash for comments made in a New York Magazine interview regarding the importance of winning championships in her marriage.

December 2020: Lawsuit Filed by Mother

In December 2020, Vanessa Bryant was sued by her mother, Sofia Urbieta Laine, for fraud and unpaid work as a personal assistant and nanny.

2021: Settlement of Mother's Lawsuit

In 2021, Vanessa Bryant settled the lawsuit filed against her by her mother, Sofia Urbieta Laine.

2023: Settlement of Lawsuit Against Los Angeles County

In 2023, Vanessa Bryant settled her lawsuit against Los Angeles County, which stemmed from the improper sharing of photos from the helicopter crash site on January 26, 2020.