Debbie Nelson, the mother of iconic rapper Eminem, passed away on Monday at the age of 69 following a battle with advanced lung cancer. According to reports from TMZ, Nelson died in St. Joseph, Missouri. It remains unclear whether she passed away at home or in a medical facility.
Nelson’s diagnosis was first disclosed in September, with sources indicating that her condition was terminal. Despite a historically strained relationship, marked by public feuds and scathing lyrics, Nelson and Eminem had reportedly reconciled in recent years.
Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, often referenced their tumultuous relationship in his music, spotlighting the neglect and dysfunction he claimed to have endured during his upbringing. Tracks like “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” captured his frustrations, accusing Nelson of abuse and neglect.
The tension escalated in 1999 when Nelson sued her son for defamation, further straining their already fractured bond. In 2007, she published a memoir titled “My Son, Marshall, My Son Eminem,” offering her perspective on their troubled relationship.
Despite their rocky history, Nelson extended congratulations to Eminem when he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2022, signaling a possible reconciliation.
As of Tuesday morning, Eminem has not publicly addressed the news of his mother’s passing.
