Eminem Remains Silent On '8 Mile' Co-Star's Death

On Tuesday, September 26, The Blast reported that Nashawn Breedlove, famous for battle rapping alongside Eminem in the movie "8 Mile", passed away at age 46.

Although he passed away on Sunday, Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, has yet to speak out on the unfortunate news.

According to a family member, the rapper and "8 Mile" star died in his sleep Sunday at his home in New Jersey. The cause of death is yet to be determined.

Bronx rapper Mickey Factz broke the news on his social media channels on Monday, September 25, that Breedlove had passed away.

"RIP to one of the few emcees to beat Eminem… Lotto from 8 Mile. Who's friends lovingly called him OX," he wrote. "You will be missed for your tenacity and aggressiveness."

Breedlove began his rap career off camera, appearing on the soundtrack to the 2001 Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and DJ Pooh film "The Wash" under his rap name Ox, per HipHopDX. One year later, the musician went to the big screen when he appeared alongside Eminem in the movie "8 Mile", loosely based on Eminem's life. The actor played the role of Lotto in the 2002 movie and is best known for the scene where his character takes on Eminem's B-Rabbit in a rap battle.

"I feel bad I gotta murder that dude from 'Leave it to Beaver.'" Lotto rapped in part, though he ultimately lost the battle.

The film grossed over $242 million at the box office with a budget of only $41 million. Plus, the movie won several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Lose Yourself," two MTV Movie Awards, two Teen Choice Awards, two BMI awards, two Grammy Awards, and a Broadcast Film Critics Association Award, among others.

Although Breedlove passed away in his home on Sunday, the "Lose Yourself" rapper has yet to break his silence on the unfortunate news.

The last thing Eminem posted on social media was regarding his surprise appearance with 50 Cent, who is currently working on an "8 Mile" television show in Detroit. "Had two come out with @50cent last night… thanks four the love, Detroit! FINAL LAP TOUR!!!" he wrote on Instagram one week ago.

Other fans, however, took to social media to share their condolences.

"RIP LEGEND ??? '8 Mile' Actor, Nashawn Breedlove, Known for Battle-Rapping Eminem, Died at 46, in His Sleep ??️," one fan wrote, as another chimed in, "Nashawn Breedlove, famous for battle-rapping Eminem in the movie "8 Mile," is http://dead.at 46. My deepest sympathy and condolences to the Breedlove family. Please pray for him and his family during this difficult time."

Another expressed on social media, "R.I.P Nashawn' OX' Breedlove… Not a bad little rapper; talented for sure. And let's not forget his part in our Stan life as Lotto (the only one who came close to beating B Rabbit, IMO). Damn, man. Peace."

And another fan Tweeted, "I'm sorry to hear about Nashawn Breedlove's passing.? He was known for his role in "8 Mile."