Nathan Mathers, Eminem’s younger half-brother, has expressed complex feelings following the death of their mother, Debbie Nelson. Nelson passed away on Monday at the age of 69 in St. Joseph, Minnesota, after battling lung cancer.
Nathan’s Reaction
On Tuesday, Mathers shared a brief yet emotional Instagram Story, stating, “Hatred and mixed emotions today,” against a black background. His statement reflects the family’s complicated history.
Eminem, who often detailed his strained relationship with his mother in his music, has not yet spoken publicly about her passing.
A Tumultuous Family History
Debbie Nelson was a prominent figure in Eminem’s early music, which chronicled their troubled relationship. Tracks like “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” and “My Mom” portrayed their fraught dynamic. However, in 2013, Eminem extended an apology through his song “Headlights,” which depicted a reconciliation between the two.
Nelson’s relationship with Eminem also included legal battles. She famously sued him for defamation in 1999 after being referenced in his lyrics. In 2001, a judge awarded her $25,000, though most of the money went toward legal fees.
A Softer Side in Recent Years
Despite their rocky past, Nelson showed support for her son and granddaughter in recent years. In 2022, she recorded a heartfelt video message congratulating Eminem on his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, saying, “I love you very much. It’s been a long ride, and I’m very, very proud of you.” She also celebrated her granddaughter, Hailie Jade, on the launch of her podcast, A Little Shady.
A History of Loss
Nelson’s passing marks another chapter of loss for the Mathers family. Eminem’s father, Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr., died in 2019 at the age of 67.
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