Share on FacebookDebbie Nelson, mother of iconic rapper Eminem, has passed away at the age of 69.
According to reports, she died Monday evening from complications related to lung cancer. Nelson’s illness had been reported in the months prior.
Eminem's Early Years
Nelson became a mother at 18, giving birth to Marshall Mathers, better known as Eminem, in 1972. Their life together was marked by challenges, many of which played out in the public eye as Eminem rose to fame.
A Complex Relationship
Eminem frequently shared details of their tumultuous relationship in interviews and through his music. In a 1999 interview, he accused his mother of stealing his earnings and battling substance abuse, allegations she denied. That same year, Nelson filed a $10 million defamation lawsuit against her son over lyrics in his hit songs, ultimately winning the case.
The tension between them was also evident in songs like “My Name Is,” “Cleaning Out My Closet,” and “Kill You,” where Eminem shared raw and emotional depictions of their struggles.
Attempts at Reconciliation
Despite the difficult history, there were moments of reconciliation.
In 2000, Nelson released a song titled “Dear Marshall,” apologizing to her son and reflecting on their shared pain. She also wrote a memoir in 2008, “My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem,” where she defended herself and offered her perspective on their challenges.
Eminem later softened his stance with the 2013 song “Headlights,” in which he apologized to his mother, expressing regret for past grievances.
A Mother's Love
In 2022, Nelson publicly congratulated Eminem on his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. “I love you very much. I knew you’d get there,” she wrote, calling it a proud moment in their journey.
Eminem has not yet made any public statement about his mother’s death.
