Filipino social media star dies at 19 in her Los Angeles home, family says

An up-and-coming social media influencer, Emmanuelle “Emman” Atienza, died at the age of 19 in her Los Angeles home this week, her family confirmed Thursday night.

“It’s with deep sadness that we share the unexpected passing of our daughter and sister, Emman,” her family wrote in a joint statement on Instagram. “She brought so much joy, laughter, and love into our lives and into the lives of everyone who knew her.” 

Emman was the daughter of Filipino television presenter Alejandro “Kim” Ilagan Atienza, also known as Kuya Kim, and his wife Felicia Hung Atienza, a celebrity entrepreneur and health and well-being advocate.

As of Friday morning, Emman had over 935,200 TikTok followers and her recent posts had each amassed millions of views. The late creator was known for posting lifestyle and fun videos in the Philippines before moving to L.A. over the summer.

“Emman had a way of making people feel seen and heard, and she wasn’t afraid to share her own journey with mental health,” Emman’s family stated. “Her authenticity helped so many feel less alone.”

According to multiple media reports, including TMZ, People and Deadline, the L.A. County Medical Examiner confirmed Emman’s cause of death to be suicide.

“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,” said the creator’s family.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from a mental health crisis, professional support can be found for free by dialing or texting 988. Counselors are also available by chat on www.988lifeline.org.