Nashawn Breedlove, the lead in “8 Mile,” the 2002 film loosely based on Eminem’s life, has died at age 46.
Breedlove, known for playing freestyle rapper Lotto in the film, died in his home state of New Jersey, a spokesperson for the New Jersey Department of Health confirmed to USA TODAY on Tuesday.
HipHopDX was the first to report the news. The cause and manner of his death are under investigation.
His mother, Patricia Breedlove, announced the news of his death on Facebook on Tuesday, writing: “It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of the passing of my beloved son, Nashawn Breedlove.”
“Many of you knew him by his pseudonym (Lotto and Ox), a name that reflected his resilience and determination,” her post reads. “Nashawn was a rapper, singer, songwriter and actor. No one could deny his talent.”
She added: “Nashawn’s departure from this world has left a huge void in my life that words cannot fully express. I cannot put into words the pain and hurt I feel. He wasn’t just my son; he was a…” remarkable man whose character and strength inspired all who crossed his path.
Breedlove is best known for a scene in “8 Mile” in which he and Eminem, who played aspiring rapper B-Rabbit, compete in a rap battle. The songwriter and rapper also wrote and recorded a track on the soundtrack for DJ Pooh’s 2001 film “The Wash,” starring Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre up.
“Shoutout to one of the few emcees to beat Eminem…Lotto by 8 Mile,” rapper Mickey Factz wrote in an Instagram post on Monday. “We will miss your persistence and aggressiveness.”
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