Yahoo News “8 Mile” actor Nashawn Breedlove dies at 46
Nashawn Breedlove, the actor and rapper best known for his performance in 2002's 8 Mile, died on Sunday at age 46. His cause of death is unknown.
Breedlove played a rapper named Lotto in 8 Mile, a member of Detroit rap group the Free World, who battles Eminem's Jimmy at the climax of the film. Lotto famously insults Jimmy by comparing him to "that dude from Leave It to Beaver" during his freestyle. Jimmy ultimately defeats Lotto before moving on to face Papa Doc, played by Anthony Mackie.
Under his stage name Ox, Breedlove also appeared on the soundtrack of the 2001 film The Wash, starring Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, performing on the song "Don't Talk S---."
Everett Collection Nashawn Breedlove and Eminem in '8 Mile'
TMZ first reported the news, saying that Breedlove died in his sleep at his home in New Jersey. The actor's mother Patricia A. Breedlove confirmed it on Facebook on Tuesday. "It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of my beloved son Nashawn Breedlove's passing," she wrote, noting that many knew him by his aliases, Lotto and Ox, "a name that echoed his resilience and determination," she shared of the latter. "Nashawn was a rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. No one could deny his talent."
Universal Pictures Nashawn Breedlove
"Nashawn's departure from this world has left an immense void in my life, one that words cannot fully express," the actor's mother continued. "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."
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