Snoop Dogg's Father: Vernell Varnado & Their Relationship Explained
Is it possible to fully understand the man behind the icon, Snoop Dogg, without delving into the complex relationship he shares with his father? The story of Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., better known as Snoop Dogg, is inextricably linked to the life of his father, Vernell Varnado, a man whose presence, or lack thereof, significantly shaped the rapper's journey.
Vernell Varnado's life is a tapestry woven with threads of military service, artistic aspirations, and the challenges of fatherhood. Born in Magnolia, he served in the Vietnam War, a period that undoubtedly left its mark. After his military service, Varnado returned to civilian life, working for ten years as a mail carrier in Detroit. He was also a singer, and while his musical career may not have reached the heights of his son's fame, it demonstrates a shared creative spark. The relationship between Vernell Varnado and his son has evolved over time, marked by absence in Snoop's early life, but eventually, found a way to mend fences.
To further understand the complexities of this relationship, and to contextualize Varnado's life alongside his son's success, here's a closer look at the man behind "Poppa Snoop":
Category | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Vernell Varnado Sr. |
Also Known As | "Papa Snoop" |
Date of Birth | December 1949 |
Birthplace | Magnolia |
Known For | Father of Snoop Dogg, Vietnam War Veteran, Singer, Former Mail Carrier |
Military Service | Vietnam War Veteran |
Career | Former Mail Carrier, Singer |
Relationship with Snoop Dogg | Biological father; initially absent from Snoop's life, but later reconciled. |
Notable Events | Attended the ceremony honoring Snoop Dogg with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (November 19, 2018). Featured in a documentary about Snoop Dogg's life. |
Reference | IMDB |
The absence of Vernell Varnado in Snoop Dogg's early years significantly shaped his childhood. Soon after Calvin (Snoop) was born, Varnado left the family, leading to Snoop's mother, Beverly Tate, remarrying. Despite this separation, the connection between father and son was never entirely severed. As Snoop Dogg's career flourished, the bond between them began to heal and strengthen, culminating in public appearances and expressions of familial love.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, held on November 19, 2018, in Los Angeles, California, was a significant moment for both father and son. Vernell Varnado was present to witness his son receive a star, a symbol of the rapper's enduring impact on the entertainment industry. This event represented a public acknowledgement of their reconciliation and the enduring power of family.
Vernell Varnado's influence extends beyond his role as Snoop Dogg's father. His military service as a Vietnam War veteran gives him a unique place in history. The sacrifices made by veterans like Varnado are often acknowledged on Memorial Day, a federal holiday observed in the United States. In addition to his military service, Varnado's work as a mail carrier in Detroit for a significant period of time further illustrates his dedication and commitment to the community. His story mirrors the experiences of countless other American families, making his life relatable and resonant.
The rapper's early life was influenced not only by his biological father, but also by his stepfather, Calvin Cordozar Broadus, who became a father figure in Snoop's young life. The young Snoop, named Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., would later embrace the stage name Snoop Doggy Dogg, a moniker that would catapult him to international fame. The rapper's mother gave him the famous cartoon character Snoopy from the peanuts, the stage name was later changed to Snoop Dogg. During the initial stages of his musical career, Snoop Dogg collaborated with Dr. Dre, a partnership that proved pivotal to his success, particularly with the release of Dre's debut solo album, 'The Chronic'.
Snoop Doggs career took off in the early 1990s. His debut album, "Doggystyle," released in 1993, was a commercial success, solidifying his place in the music industry. In a 1993 interview with Spin magazine, Varnados life and background was discussed, including his time served in Vietnam. Snoop Dogg's second studio album, "Tha Doggfather," released in 1996, further cemented his status as a major force in hip-hop. Throughout his career, Snoop Dogg has expanded into acting, media, and business, showcasing a diverse range of talents.
Beyond his music career, Snoop Dogg has embraced various ventures. He has appeared in movies and television shows, hosted programs, and established himself as a media personality. Snoop Dogg's involvement with his family also extends to his daughter Cori Broadus, who has been vocal about her wedding plans and her relationship with her father. The documentary about Snoop Dogg's life underscores the importance of his relationship with his father and family.
Snoop Dogg's impact extends beyond his personal achievements. His success as a rapper and his influence in the music industry have opened doors for other artists. His ability to adapt and reinvent himself over the years has ensured that he remains a relevant and influential figure in popular culture.
The story of Snoop Dogg and Vernell Varnado is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the complexities of family dynamics, and the enduring power of reconciliation. The shared experiences of this father and son have made both of them who they are today.
Snoop Doggs fatherhood, which includes his relationship with his own children, and his impact on the lives of those around him is further highlighted by the television series "Snoop Dogg's Father Hood." The show, which premiered on December 9, 2007, in the United States, offered a glimpse into Snoop Dogg's family life and his roles as a father and a husband, demonstrating the many facets of his personality and the importance of family in his life.
On November 19, 2018, Snoop Dogg received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a great moment for the family to celebrate and mark their life. Vernell Varnado, alongside many other family members, was present at the event.
The respect between father and son, the elder Varnado also being honored in Atlanta for his military service, and "Papa Snoop" even recording music. As Snoop's career was developing in the music industry, his father and their relationship continued to evolve.
In addition to his music, Vernell Varnado has also played a significant role in encouraging and supporting the family.


