Nick Saban has been a goated figure in college football as the quintessential Alabama head coach for over two decades. It’s a no-brainer that a glimpse of his immense popularity will flow to his kids, Nicholas and Kristen, and earn them a decent amount of media exposure 24*7. However, it’s not just the last name. Kristen Saban, 27, capitalized on her father’s territory in her own right and made a splash over the internet. From attending games and ceremonies at Alabama to being a constant cheerleader to dad Nick Saban, the fashion diva barely fails to draw attention nationwide. But this time, she rose to the headline, not in her usual mic-dropping mode.

On this black Thursday, Hollywood encountered heartbreaking news as two-time Oscar winner Gene Hackman breathed his last at the age of 95. Although his age speaks enough of his deteriorated health and eventual death in the process, the loss of a legend always hits harder than you think. Also, it makes more sense when the cause of death remains unclear. On February 26th, Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog were found dead at home in Santa Fe. The suspicion swirls over the lore as police initiate an investigation. Saban’s daughter seems to be one of the million fans of the Hollywood mogul who was left down in the mouth by the news. She mourns via an IG story with a few sobbing emojis alongside the news.

It’s unclear whether or not Saban has any significant connection with the actor; both legends have single-handedly dominated their field. However, irrespective of status, money, and fame, Kristen has a highly empathetic heart that reaches out to any disaster, even if it’s beyond human.

Kristen Saban showcases boundless empathy for the lost souls 

Kristen has been a pivotal figure who often outdoes her father when it comes to matters of the heart. Nick Saban, the ever-serious legendary coach, publically restricts any emotional reaction. But his daughter doesn’t carry this gene. Kristen loves to put her emotions out there, sharp and loud. Last year, back in December, when veteran commentator Kirk Herbstreit lost his dog, the most favorite dog of the entire CFB community, Ben, Kristen was among the first to come up with a small, sweet tribute for the fur baby.

Ben has been more than a dog to Herbstreit and his mates. He often flew to accompany Kirk in his games. The last time Ben made a public appearance was back in October 2024, when he flew to Bloomington for Indiana’s game against Washington. It was since then that his health started to decline, and he finally lost a long battle with cancer. The grief made former President Joe Biden share a heartfelt tribute. And Kristen reposted it with a cute caption, “America’s favorite golden 💛.” Kristen herself lost her dog, Gunner, which she deems as her first baby, back in November last year.

So, reacting to gut-wrenching death news is nothing new for Saban’s daughter, whose heart beats for every aggrieved out there, but the irreparable loss of the Holywood industry will continue to sting the world for a long time.