Eminem’s Mother, Debbie Nelson, Dies at 69

Debbie Nelson, mother of rapper Eminem, passed away at 69 in St. Joseph, Missouri, from lung cancer. Despite their publicized strained relationship, Eminem reflected on their bond in his 2013 song Headlights, expressing regret and gratitude.

Nelson, who gave birth to Eminem at 18, detailed their struggles in her 2007 memoir My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem. While reconciliation efforts were made, communication remained limited in recent years, though Eminem supported her financially.

Her passing highlights a complex relationship that inspired much of Eminem’s music and the 2002 film 8 Mile.