Eminem, the iconic rapper known for his hard-hitting lyrics and alter ego Slim Shady, has released a deeply personal music video that reveals a softer, more emotional side. His latest video for “Temporary,” a track from his album The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce), is a tribute to fatherhood and his now 28-year-old daughter, Hailie Jade Scott. The five-minute video, packed with touching, never-before-seen moments, has left fans and fathers alike teary-eyed.
A Father’s Journey: From 23-Year-Old Dad to Grandfather
Eminem, born Marshall Mathers, became a father at the young age of 23, when he welcomed Hailie Jade with his ex, Kim Scott, in 1995. In “Temporary,” he opens up about the struggles, joys, and fears of fatherhood, reflecting on how time with his daughter is fleeting but deeply cherished.
The music video features old photos and footage of Hailie growing up, offering a rare glimpse into Eminem’s private family life. From playful moments as a child to the emotional milestones of her adulthood, the video paints a beautiful picture of their father-daughter relationship. Towards the end, a heartwarming moment leaves Eminem — and likely viewers — in tears, as Hailie reveals she is pregnant, making the legendary rapper a grandfather.
The Message Behind “Temporary”
At the core of “Temporary” is Eminem’s fear of not being able to express everything he wants to say to his daughter when he’s no longer around. In the song, he poignantly confesses, “My biggest fear is not being able to say all the things I wanna say to you when I’m no longer here.” Through this track, Eminem takes the opportunity to share these unspoken words with Hailie, reminding us all of the importance of expressing love to our family.
The song is complemented by Skylar Grey’s haunting vocals, adding a layer of emotion that amplifies the personal nature of the music video. The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce), which includes “Temporary,” marks Eminem’s reflection on his life as a father, and perhaps, the conclusion of the aggressive Slim Shady persona as he embraces his real identity.
Heartfelt Family Moments on Display
The music video is filled with tender family memories, starting with a father-daughter photo slideshow. In the first 30 seconds, baby pictures of Hailie Jade flash across the screen, showing her in various stages of her childhood, from silly moments to touching father-daughter photos. Viewers are taken through a journey of Hailie growing up, as she dances, falls on a snowboard, celebrates birthdays, and graduates.
At around the two-minute mark, Eminem makes a moving appearance in a suit and tie, climbing a flight of stairs to greet Hailie for a “first look” on her wedding day. The raw emotion on his face as he embraces his daughter in her wedding dress, followed by tears streaming down his face, captures the depth of their bond.
The emotional highlight of the video comes when Hailie hands Eminem a gift on her wedding day. With a note in hand, she watches her father read it. As he finishes, he is overcome with emotion, giving her yet another big hug. The moment transitions to a touching scene of Eminem walking Hailie down the aisle and later, the two share a father-daughter dance at her wedding.
The Surprise: Eminem Becomes a Grandpa
In a moment that fans are calling one of the most touching in the video, Hailie surprises Eminem by presenting him with a Detroit Lions football jersey with “Grandpa” written on the back, alongside the number 1. The look on Eminem’s face — wide-eyed and with his jaw dropped — is priceless as he realizes he is about to become a grandfather. Hailie also hands him a sonogram, further driving home the emotional weight of the scene.
The video ends with a close-up of the card Hailie gave to her father on her wedding day, with a touching note that reads: “…because no matter how many years go by, inside my heart will always be the little girl who loves and needs her dad.” In the handwritten note, Hailie expresses her gratitude, signing off with a childhood nickname: “Bean.”
A Legacy of Love
Eminem’s music has always been a reflection of his personal struggles, triumphs, and growth. With “Temporary,” he lets the world into his heart, showing that even amidst the fame and bravado, his role as a father is what matters most to him. The music video serves as a testament to the love he has for his daughter and the special bond they share.
As fans watch this intimate portrayal of Eminem’s life as a father and now a soon-to-be grandfather, “Temporary” will likely become one of his most cherished and emotional pieces, marking a new chapter in his legacy.