Michael Lee Simpson | People
Nashawn Breedlove, the rapper and actor who starred alongside Eminem in the 2002 film 8 Mile, has died at 46.
A family member told TMZ that Breedlove died in his sleep on Sunday at his home in New Jersey. The cause of death is still unknown.
His mother Patricia confirmed his death on Facebook, writing “Nashawn was a rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. No one could deny his talent. Nashawn’s departure from this world has left an immense void in my life, one that words cannot fully express. I can’t put into words the pain and hurt that I feel. He was not just my son; he was a remarkable man whose character and strength inspired all who crossed his path.”Breedlove was best known for his role as Lotto, one of the rap battle opponents of Eminem’s character B-Rabbit in 8 Mile. In the film, Lotta rapped “I feel bad I gotta murder that dude from Leave It to Beaver” in reference to Eminem, who eventually won the showdown.
Before 8 Mile, Breedlove went by the stage name OX and was featured on the soundtrack for 2001’s The Wash starring Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg.
Fans and loved ones paid tribute to Breedlove on social media, remembering Breedlove for his talent and charisma.
Rapper Mickey Factz shared a clip of Breedlove rapping in 8 Mile on Instagram, writing “RIP to one of the few emcee’s to beat Eminem… Lotto from 8 Mile. Who’s friends lovingly called him, OX. You will be missed for your tenacity and aggressiveness.”
“The first mc who was ever robbed of his win in a rap battle!” rapper Daylyt wrote in the comments section, adding “Rip lotto.”
“I met Ox when we was teens,” a user commented. “He was in a group called The Now. Illest (sic) group of emcees I’ve ever met in my friggin life. They SMOKED my group in a showcase competition but they was humble and cool. Ox stood out. Super good dude.”
Latisha Harper, Breedlove’s former girlfriend with whom she shared a son, also commented on Factz’s post. She wrote that “he was so humble” and “didn’t even know he had true fans.”
“He was so talented,” Harper continued. “Not only Wa (sic) he an amazing MC he sang better than Luther. He blessed me with my son @youngzaak and I swear that is Nashawn to the 10th power. I will always be his biggest fan.if yal only knew his talent 🙌please pray for our strength it is needed. Thank you again @mickey.factz.”
The pair’s son, Zaak, 22, shared a photo of his father from 8 Mile on Instagram in a heartfelt post.
“RIP to my Father,” he captioned the post. “The Legend of Hip Hop.”