Eminem's half-brother Nate reacts to mother Debbie Nelson's death

The Mathers family is once again in the spotlight, but this time for a somber reason.Debbie Nelson, the mother of Eminem and his half-brother Nathan "Nate" Kane Mathers, passed away this week at the age of 69 after battling advanced lung cancer. While Eminem has yet to comment publicly on his mother's death, Nate took to Instagram to share a raw and emotional reaction.

"Hatred and mixed emotions today," Nate, 38, wrote on his Instagram Story. His words reflect a complicated relationship with Nelson, whose struggles with her sons have been well-documented over the years.

Nate's post comes as a reminder of the strained dynamics within the Mathers family. Placed in foster care at the age of eight, Nate was adopted by his older brother Eminem when he turned 16. Their shared upbringing under Nelson's care was marked by challenges, including allegations of neglect, which Eminem famously turned into fuel for his music career.

Instagram@nathankanemathers

Eminem's 2002 hit Cleanin' Out My Closetvividly explored his resentment toward his mother, who he accused of contributing to his turbulent childhood. However, their relationship wasn't entirely without attempts at reconciliation. In his 2013 song Headlights, Eminem reflected on his regrets, rapping, "My mom probably got it the worst... I'm mad I didn't get the chance to thank you for being my mom and my dad."

Nelson's final years

Before her death, Nelson's health had been in sharp decline.InTouch Weekly reported in September that she had limited time left due to her battle with cancer. While it was alleged that Eminem had not communicated with her in years, insiders claimed he still ensured she was financially cared for. "He's good to his mom. He makes sure he takes care of her, but they don't really talk," a source told the outlet.

Despite this estrangement, Debbie Nelson expressed hope for reconciliation in a 2008 interview with the Village Voice. "I'm not ever gonna give up on my kids," she said. "It's a matter of just basically swallowing your pride."

Nate's pointed reaction highlights the lingering wounds within the family. His mixed emotions echo the sentiments of someone grappling with a painful past and unresolved feelings. Nate, who has carved his own path in music and entertainment, has frequently credited Eminem for stepping in as a parental figure during their youth.

The legacy of Debbie Nelson

Debbie Nelson's story is one of struggle, survival, and controversy. While her relationship with her sons may have been fraught, she played a pivotal role in shaping their lives, whether as a source of inspiration or conflict.

Eminem's lack of public comment thus far has sparked speculation about where their relationship stood at the time of her passing. Known for keeping his personal life private, the rap icon may choose to address his mother's death in his own way, possibly through his music.

As the Mathers family processes this loss, Nate's post serves as a stark reminder of the complexities that often accompany family ties.