Eminem’s latest album, The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce), has sparked widespread criticism for a controversial reference to Alec Baldwin’s involvement in the fatal shooting on the set of Rust.
In his track Fuel, the 51-year-old rapper includes lyrics that mention the incident, stating, “But it’s in a holster, I proceed to bust it/ F**k around and get popped like Halyna Hutchins.”
This reference comes at a sensitive time as Baldwin, faces trial in New Mexico following the tragic death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in October 2021.
The timing of the song’s release, coming just days after Baldwin’s trial commenced, has prompted swift backlash on social media.
Criticism has been vocalized on social media, with one user urging, “Are you still listening to this loser? If so, stop it.”
Additional comments labeled the track as “awful” and “tasteless,” expressing disappointment in Eminem’s lyrical choice.
The timing of the song’s release coinciding with Baldwin’s ongoing trial has intensified the backlash, with some fans deeming the reference inappropriate given the tragic circumstances.
However, amidst the controversy, there were supporters who praised Eminem’s boldness and defended him against criticism of insensitivity.
One fan remarked, “Eminem is proving that ‘cancel culture’ doesn’t exist,” while others appreciated his unapologetically provocative style.
