On October 2, Proof would have turned 53. Marshall marked this day with a post dedicated to his late friend.
Eminem wrote on his social media accounts:
Remembering and celebrating your life Doody 🕊️ today and always!!! Happy Bday Big Proof
Proof’s influence runs through Eminem’s life story. Even the Slim Shady persona itself was inspired by Proof’s idea for D12. Even Proof’s death left a mark on Marshall that is easy to trace through his lyrics.
Two decades after Proof’s death, Eminem feels his presence, and his absence, acutely.