Nathan “Nate” Mathers, the half-brother of rap icon Eminem, has spoken out following the death of their mother, Debbie Nelson. In a poignant Instagram Story shared a day after her passing, Nate expressed his emotions with a brief but powerful statement: “Hatred and mixed emotions today.”
Debbie Nelson passed away on Monday, December 2, in St. Joseph, Missouri, after a battle with lung cancer. The news was confirmed to PEOPLE by a representative of Eminem, known for his raw and emotional tributes to his complex relationship with his mother in his music.
Nathan, a 38-year-old music producer, was born to Nelson and her boyfriend, Fred Samra, when Eminem was just 13 years old. Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, was Nelson’s son from her marriage to Marshall Mathers Jr.
Eminem played a pivotal role in Nate’s life, becoming his legal guardian when Nate was 16 years old after he had spent nearly a decade in foster care. Despite the challenges of their upbringing, the brothers forged a close bond.
In a 2023 episode of Hailie Jade’s Just a Little Shady podcast, Nate reflected on his relationship with Eminem, calling him a guiding influence. “He was the best role model I could have had to help me be the dad that I am today,” Nate said, underscoring the strength of their connection.
Debbie Nelson’s passing closes a tumultuous chapter in the Mathers family history. While their relationship with her was fraught, Eminem and Nate have maintained a deep bond that has helped them navigate their complex past and move forward with resilience.
