Nashawn Breedlove, a rapper who played the character Lotto in the film 8 Mile, has died. He was 46.
Breedlove died in his sleep on Sunday, Sept. 24, at his home in New Jersey, a family member told TMZ. No cause of death was given.
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The rapper’s mother Patricia A. Breedlove confirmed his death on Tuesday in a tribute post on Facebook.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of my beloved son Nashawn Breedlove’s passing,” she wrote. “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.”
She concluded, “I love you my son, nothing but death can keep us apart.”
Breedlove was featured in a scene battle-rapping with Eminem in the 2002 film, which won the “Lose Yourself” rapper an Oscar for Best Original Song.
Before landing a role in 8 mile, Breedlove rapped under the stage name OX.
His song “Don’t Talk Sh-t” was featured on the soundtrack for The Wash, a 2001 comedy film from DJ Pooh starring Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg.
