The mother of the world-famous American rapper has passed away. The cause of death was lung cancer. The diagnosis was made back in September, when it became clear that the disease had reached its terminal stage.
In her final months, Debbie spent time between the hospital and home, surrounded by loved ones. Although Eminem continued to provide financial support to his mother, their communication remained minimal.
Nelson’s reputation, as well as her relationship with her son, has always been ambiguous and remained a focal point throughout Eminem’s career. Their relationship became a subject of public discussion from the very beginning of his music career, when he accused his mother of abuse and neglecting his needs.
In one of his most famous songs, “Cleanin’ Out My Closet,” Eminem revealed painful details about their life together, stating that she symbolized a toxic family to him. These words led to a lawsuit in 1999, when Debbie sued her son for defamation. In response to the allegations, Eminem argued that their relationship had always been complicated and full of pain.
Debbie Nelson did not remain silent either and, in 2007, released her autobiography, where she presented her version of events, accusing her son of relentless public harassment. “My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem” – this book was essentially an attempt to justify herself before an audience that had only seen one side of the story.
The book describes her struggles and traumas, including the abuse from her stepfather, which, according to Debbie, left a mark on her relationship with her son. Several years later, in 2013, Eminem apologized to his mother by releasing the song “Headlights,” in which he expressed regret for his behavior and for the years that were lost.
It seemed as though their troubled past was gradually giving way to a stronger bond. In 2022, Debbie congratulated the rapper on his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. “Marshall, I couldn’t let this day go by without congratulating you on this achievement. I’m proud of you,” she said in a special video. Despite these warm words, their personal communication remained limited, and many couldn’t understand why their relationship was never fully repaired.
Debbie Nelson married Marshall Bruce Mathers in 1970, and two years later gave birth to their first child, the future hip-hop star. Shortly after, Marshall and Debbie divorced. She later made several attempts to build a personal life, but these efforts often ended in failure. A few years ago, she married John Briggs.
Besides Eminem, Debbie had another child, Nathan Samra-Mathers. He followed in his older half-brother’s footsteps, becoming known in the music world as a DJ, producer, and songwriter.
