Eminem’s Half-Brother Nate Breaks Silence on Mother’s Death: ‘Hatred and Mixed Emotions’

Eminem’s half-brother, Nathan “Nate” Kane Mathers, has spoken out following the death of their mother, Debbie Nelson, who passed away after a long battle with lung cancer at the age of 69. The 38-year-old Nate shared his emotional response on social media just a day after the heartbreaking news broke.

In a poignant Instagram Story post, Nate described his feelings as a complex mix of “hatred and mixed emotions.” This raw and honest reflection underscores the complicated and tumultuous relationship the Mathers brothers had with their late mother. Although Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Bruce Mathers III, has yet to publicly comment on her passing, Nate’s words offer a glimpse into the pain that has lingered for years.

The estrangement between Debbie Nelson and her sons is no secret. From a young age, Nate had a fractured relationship with his mother, and by the age of eight, he was placed into foster care. Eminem later adopted Nate when he was 16. The brothers’ complicated family dynamic has been well-documented, with Eminem often using his experiences with his mother as a central theme in his music. His hit song “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” (2002) is a famous example of how he channeled his frustrations and anger toward his mother into his art.

Debbie Nelson, who had a strained relationship with both of her sons, gave birth to Nate with Fred Samara Jr., about 14 years after she had Eminem with Marshall Bruce Mathers Jr. Despite the distance between them, Nelson had spoken publicly in 2008 about her hopes for reconciliation with her children. In an interview with the Village Voice, she shared, “I’m not ever gonna give up on my kids. I won’t give up on anybody. There’s hope for everybody. It’s a matter of just basically swallowing your pride.”

It is unclear where Eminem and Debbie’s relationship stood at the time of her death, though he has expressed regret over their estrangement. In his 2013 song “Headlights,” Eminem rapped about his desire to make amends with his mother, reflecting on his past actions: “I went in headfirst, never thinking about who what I said hurt / My mom probably got it the worst.” He further added, “I’m mad I didn’t get the chance to thank you for being my mom and my dad.”

While their relationship remained distant, reports surfaced earlier this year that Debbie’s health was rapidly declining. Sources close to the family revealed that she had very limited time left and was receiving care between the cancer center and family members. Eminem, who had not communicated with his mother for years, was reportedly unaware of the severity of her condition in her final months. One source claimed that although Eminem ensured his mother was financially supported, they had little to no communication, which some believed could have provided an opportunity for them to reconcile before her death.

The complex emotions expressed by Nate reveal the pain and unresolved feelings that lingered even in the face of their mother’s passing. It’s a somber reminder of the ways family dynamics can shape our lives, even long after the people we love are gone. As Eminem’s half-brother grapples with his emotions, fans of the artist are left to reflect on the impact of family on his career and music.

As the world processes the loss of Debbie Nelson, it is evident that the emotional scars left by her troubled relationship with her sons may take time to heal.