In 2001, Eminem used language that suggested homophobia. He had a lot of heat on him, but was still asked to perform at the 2001 Grammy’s. He said the only way he’d perform was if he did it with Elton John. Ironically, Eminem didn’t know who Elton John was, let alone that he was gay. He simply knew his name and said it as a joke.
In the end, it all came together and he and Elton John performed together at the 2001 Grammy’s. After their performance they embraced in front of everyone and people left Eminem alone about being homophobic. When Eminem was struggling with his pill addiction, he turned to Elton John for help, again.
He’s become a type of mentor to Eminem. The unlikely pair continues their friendship today and keeps in touch. John has seen Eminem through some hard times in his life.