In one of the most unexpected what-if casting stories in Hollywood, music producer Damion “Damizza” Young has revealed that Eminem once wanted none other than Mariah Carey to play his mother in the semi-autobiographical film 8 Mile. The revelation came during an episode of the TFU Podcast, and it’s stirring up curiosity—and disbelief—over what could’ve been one of the most bizarre casting choices in rap movie history.
A Role Rejection That Spoke Volumes
According to Young, Eminem was completely serious about the idea. Despite the fact that Carey is just four years older than him, he believed she could convincingly portray his on-screen mom. Young, who had introduced the two artists to one another, claims Carey instantly refused when she heard what the role entailed. “She was like, ‘Absolutely not,’” he recalled, adding that Eminem’s enthusiasm didn’t match Carey’s discomfort.
Young also warned Eminem against pushing the idea further, suggesting it would blow up into unnecessary drama—something Eminem had already navigated with fellow pop star Christina Aguilera in earlier years. While Eminem insisted he wasn’t joking, Carey wasn’t having it, and the idea died before it ever made it past that initial pitch.
The Real Story Behind Eminem’s 8 Mile’s Casting Choice
The role ultimately went to Kim Basinger, who was 21 years Eminem’s senior at the time and brought the right mix of grit and vulnerability to the part. The casting decision was more in line with audience expectations and gave the film an extra layer of authenticity. 8 Mile went on to become a critical and commercial success, with Eminem even earning an Academy Award for the anthem “Lose Yourself.”
As for the missed Mariah cameo, it now serves as an amusing piece of pop culture trivia—an alternate reality where one of the most iconic voices in music could’ve ended up playing one of rap’s most complicated maternal figures.
