Eminem's mother, Debbie Nelson, has passed away at 69

Debbie Nelson, the mother of renowned rapper Eminem, passed away on December 2, 2024, at the age of 69 due to complications from advanced lung cancer . Nelson's relationship with her son has been characterized by both tension and reconciliation, a dynamic that has significantly influenced Eminem's music over the years. In his early works, particularly in songs like "Cleanin' Out My Closet," he openly criticized her struggles with drug addiction and their tumultuous interactions . Such portrayals led to a notable defamation lawsuit in which she sought damages for his lyrics .

An Eminem spokesperson confirmed Nelson's death Tuesday with the Detroit Free Press, She had battled cancer for many years and ultimately succumbed to lung cancer.

Eminem had not publicly commented on his mother's passing as of Tuesday afternoon. The rapper is scheduled to perform Saturday at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in the United Arab Emirates.

Nelson was 18 years old when she and high school sweetheart Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr. welcomed Eminem (born Marshall Mathers III) on Oct. 17, 1972, in St. Joseph. A few years later, the spouses separated, leaving Nelson to care for their son by herself. Mother and son moved frequently but settled in Detroit.

Throughout his childhood, Eminem and his mother endured a fraught relationship — exacerbated by poverty — that eventually became fodder for multiple songs after he came to fame in the late 1990s. For his sophomore album, "The Slim Shady LP," Eminem references his mother's drug use and physical violence in tracks including "My Name Is" and "Brain Damage."

The 52-year-old is known for using his tumultuous relationship with his mother as inspiration for his songs, including his 2002 hit “Cleanin’ Out My Closet.”

Nearly two decades before her death, Nelson spoke about her rocky relationship with her sons during a 2008 interview with the Village Voice.

Despite these challenges, there were indications that their relationship had improved in recent years. Nelson publicly expressed pride in Eminem’s achievements, including congratulating him on his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022 . This evolution reflects a complex familial bond marked by public scrutiny and personal growth. Eminem’s later references to her affections—most famously through his restaurant named after her phrase “Mom’s Spaghetti”—suggest a nuanced appreciation that transcended past grievances .

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Sarah H

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