Comedian Keegan-Michael Key recently appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live and shared the story of finally meeting Eminem. The encounter happened at a Detroit Lions game, an event Eminem rarely misses, and the actor is still railing.
In fact, it was Key’s first time meeting the rap legend, and the experience lived up to his expectations. “That is my very first time meeting Eminem. It was a thrill for me”, Key said with enthusiasm. “He’s terrific. A real Detroit guy”.
Eminem’s Legacy and Detroit Pride
During the conversation, Keegan reflected on Eminem’s role in putting Detroit on the cultural map. He praised 8 Mile for showing the world a real side of the city: “Thanks to him, everybody saw 8 Mile. That’s one of those great things that put our city on the map”.
Interestingly, Key shared that he grew up just one block south of 8 Mile Road, while Eminem lived a few miles further down. “I was actually closer! I mean, why wasn’t I in the movie?” he joked.
A Grounded and Genuine Encounter
Also, the comedian spoke about how approachable and kind Eminem was in person. “He was very lovely, very grounded, very congenial”, Key recalled. “He was terrific”.
Moreover, Key admitted he chose to call the rapper by his real name, Marshall. “I just like the name Marshall. I just called him Marshall, no matter what”, he said with a laugh.
For Key, meeting Eminem was more like meeting a hometown hero than a celebrity encounter. “He’s one of those guys, a great success story”, he noted.
Over the years, many people who have met Eminem have described him the same way: polite, humble, and real. Despite his fame, he has managed to avoid the trappings of celebrity life. By staying private and grounded, Eminem has kept his integrity intact, earning respect both on and off the mic.
