We have tragic news to report from the world of social media today.
Beloved influencer Emman Atienza has been found dead in Los Angeles.
She was just 19 years old.
Emman’s family pays loving tribute
News of Emman’s death comes courtesy of a statement from her grieving family:
“It’s with deep sadness that we share the unexpected passing of our daughter and sister, Emman,” her mother, Filipino TV personality Kim Atienza, wrote in an Instagram post on Friday.
“She brought so much joy, laughter, and love into our lives and into the lives of everyone who knew her. Emman had a way of making people feel seen and heard, and she wasn’t afraid to share her own journey with mental health. Her authenticity helped so many feel less alone,” the statement continued (per Newsweek).
“To honor Emman’s memory, we hope you carry forward the qualities she lived by: compassion, courage, and a little extra kindness in your everyday life.”
Though no cause of death was provided by the family, many fans have concluded (perhaps incorrectly) that Emman died by suicide.
Many have left comments bemoaning the fact that “the depression won” or otherwise referencing Atienza’s battle with mental illness.
Initial reports indicate that a medical examiner’s report has listed the cause of death as a suicide.
Emman built a massive following over the course of her brief career, including 875,000 followers on TikTok and 225,000 on Instagram.
A career defined by compassion
While many of Atienza’s most popular videos showed her flaunting her lavish lifestyle, she was also famous for her candid discussions about the pain of mental illness and the lingering impact of childhood trauma.
Atienza revealed to fans that she had been abused by a nanny throughout her childhood, and she was traumatized to the point that she often could not be left alone in a room.
Tens of thousands commented that Emman’s candor and compassion helped guide them on their own healing journeys.
Our thoughts go out to Emman Atienza’s loved ones during this enormously difficult time.