Aimee Walker
Nashawn Breedlove, who starred in the hit 2002 film 8 Mile alongside Eminem, has died aged 46.
Breedlove was known for his musical talent and had rapped under the stage name Ox.
He appeared on the soundtrack of the 2001 movie The Wash with the track ‘Don’t Talk S***’, appearing alongside other huge names, including Busta Rhymes, Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg.
Breedlove went on to play Lotto in 8 Mile the following year, taking on Eminem’s B-Rabbit in a rap battle that the latter would go on to win.
He is fondly remembered by fans of the film for rapping: “F*** ‘Lotto, call me your leader/ I feel bad I gotta murder that dude from ‘Leave it to Beaver’ / I used to like that show, now you got me in fight back mode.”
It has now been disclosed by Breedlove’s mother, Patricia, on social media that he has passed away.
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In a statement announcing the tragic news, she penned: “It is with a heavy heart that I share the news of my beloved son Nashawn Breedlove’s passing.
“Many of you knew him by his alias (Lotto and Ox), a name that echoed his resilience and determination.
“Nashawn was a rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor. No one could deny his talent.”
She continued: “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.”
According to TMZ, the rapper died in his sleep on Sunday at his home in New Jersey.
At the time of writing, Breedlove’s cause of death is unknown.
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Many of Breedlove’s fans have taken to social media and paid tribute to the rapper, with one writing: “May God bless his soul. Good actor.”
Another adds: “RIP, unforgettable performance in 8 Mile.”
Somebody else says: “Hate to read this. That’s way too young to go.”
While a fourth person pens: “Patricia Breedlove, I watched 8 Mile countless times. I am truly and deeply sorry for your loss. He may be gone, but he will never be forgotten.”
Rapper Mickey Factz has also paid tribute to Breedlove on Instagram, commenting: “RIP to one of the few emcees to beat Eminem… Lotto from 8 Mile. Who’s friends lovingly called him, Ox.
“You will be missed for your tenacity and aggressiveness.”
People magazine reports that the late rapper’s son, Zaak, has also taken to the platform and written: “RIP to my father. The legend of hip-hop.”
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