7 reasons Eminem hated his mother

Debbie Nelson, the mother to the American rapper, Marshall Bruce Mathers III, better known as Eminem, has passed away at the age of 69 years in Saint Joseph due to lung cancer.

Before her death, Debbie and her son’s relationship was a tumultuous one, causing hate and public stares.

The relationship between Eminem and his mother has been one of the most publicised feuds in pop culture history. Eminem’s songs and interviews often highlight the deep-rooted issues they shared, which shaped his artistry and public persona. Here are seven key reasons for their fractured bond:

1. Alleged neglect and abuse during childhood

Eminem’s childhood marked the onset of their issues, with his lyrics pointing to a lack of maternal support and stability. Their bond worsened during his rise to fame, as Debbie felt vilified in his music, while Eminem saw her as unrepentant for her past actions.

READ ALSO:Eminem’s mother, Debbie Nelson, dies of lung cancer

Eminem often accused his mother of emotional neglect and erratic behaviour during his upbringing and his songs attest to it. He claimed she exposed him to unstable environments, which disrupted his early life and contributed to his struggles with self-worth.

2. Munchausen Syndrome by proxy allegations

Eminem alleged that Debbie subjected him to unnecessary medical treatments as a child, potentially linked to Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy. This led to feelings of betrayal and mistrust, leaving lasting scars on his mental health.

3. Frequent moves and unstable living conditions

Debbie frequently moved the family, causing instability in Eminem’s education and social life. He often rapped about how this instability fueled his feelings of isolation and resentment toward her.

4. Legal battles over defamation

In 1999, Debbie sued Eminem for $10 million, claiming defamation due to the negative portrayal of her in his lyrics. This legal battle escalated their feud, making headlines and further cementing their rift. Before her death, the duo had filed a lawsuit twice.

5. Her Tell-All memoir

In 2008, Debbie also published a memoir titled My Son Marshall, My Son Eminem, aiming to share her side of the story. Eminem did not rest but took to the public to view the book as a betrayal, accusing her of exploiting their family issues for financial gain.

6. Eminem’s public criticism in music

Songs like “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” openly criticised Debbie, accusing her of being a toxic influence. The deeply personal nature of these songs strained their relationship further, turning private matters into a public spectacle.

READ ALSO: Eminem to be a grandpa, writes new song for daughter Hailie

7. Mutual mistrust

Eminem and Debbie both accused each other of dishonesty and exploitation. In an interview with Rolling Stone in 1999, Eminem accused his mother of stealing his pay cheques and using drugs but Debbie denied it all.

This mutual mistrust fueled a cycle of blame, making reconciliation difficult despite occasional attempts at mending their relationship.

Her final years

Despite their history, Eminem reportedly provided financial support for her care in her final years, hinting at a sense of closure.

In 2024, Eminem released a single, “Headlights”, to apologise to his mother for criticising her in his earlier songs and for showing scorn and resentment towards her in the past.