Eminem, the celebrated rap icon, has always been open about the trials he’s faced throughout his career, but it was his battle with addiction and its aftermath that truly tested his strength. Over the years, Eminem has gone through numerous stints in rehab, struggling with drug dependency and its destructive impact on both his physical and mental well-being. However, the artist’s journey to sobriety took an unexpected turn when his concern for his health and his daughter, Hailie Jade, motivated him to confront his addictions head-on.

In a candid interview with Men’s Journal, Eminem revealed the dark realities of his battle with substance abuse, which started in 2002. While working on the film 8 Mile, the rapper developed insomnia, and a friend introduced him to sedatives to help with the stress. This seemingly innocent solution spiraled into a full-blown addiction, with Eminem turning to prescription pills like Ambien, Vicodin, and Valium. Over the years, these substances began to take their toll, physically and emotionally, leading to an alarming dependency that saw him taking up to 60 pills a day.

By 2007, Eminem’s addiction reached a breaking point when he suffered a near-fatal drug overdose. The overdose was a wake-up call that forced the rapper to face the harsh reality of his situation. At the time, he was severely overweight, tipping the scales at over 104 kg, a direct result of his unhealthy lifestyle and the pain he was trying to numb with drugs. It was then that Eminem realized he needed to make a drastic change not just for himself but for his loved ones, especially his daughter Hailie Jade.

After leaving rehab, Eminem knew he needed to find a healthier outlet to replace his destructive addictions. In a bid to regain control of his life, he turned to exercise. He adopted running as his new addiction, using it as a way to manage his emotions and stave off the temptation to relapse. His running routine became intense, with Eminem running up to 14 kilometers each morning before heading to the studio and another 14 kilometers at night, totaling 27 kilometers a day. The physical exertion gave him a natural high, fueled by the endorphins released during exercise, and it also helped him sleep better. This new routine not only helped him shed an impressive 37 kg, bringing him down to a healthier 67 kg, but it also allowed him to regain a sense of control over his life.

Despite the benefits, Eminem’s intense training eventually took a toll on his body. He suffered a hip injury from the relentless running but persevered through it. Once he recovered, he shifted his focus to more body-specific exercises, incorporating strength training and leg workouts into his routine. He recalled the excruciating pain he felt during his first leg exercises, which left him unable to walk for two days, but he continued to push through the discomfort.

Now, years after his journey to sobriety began, Eminem’s life has taken a positive turn. He’s not only been able to maintain his health but also strengthen his relationship with his three daughters, including Hailie Jade. The proud father recently received the happy news that Hailie is expecting a child, an announcement that took him by surprise but filled him with immense joy. Eminem’s transformation from a troubled addict to a sober and dedicated father has been nothing short of inspiring, and as he anticipates becoming a grandfather, he reflects on the importance of family and the lessons learned through his struggles.

Through his music, Eminem has chronicled his journey, offering his fans a glimpse into his tumultuous path toward recovery. His albums Relapse and Recovery serve as both a personal testament and a message of hope for others battling addiction. Today, he remains committed to his sobriety, exercising regularly, and embracing the role of a loving father, knowing that his greatest achievement lies not in his awards or fame, but in the relationships he’s built and the life he’s reclaimed.