Eminem, the 52-year-old rap legend whose career has spanned over three decades, has undergone a subtle transformation since becoming a grandfather in March 2025—a change so nuanced that only his most loyal, long-time fans have noticed. The discovery of this shift, revealed through recent public appearances and social media posts, has left fans stunned, offering a rare glimpse into the softer side of the artist known for his razor-sharp lyricism and intense persona.

Eminem, born Marshall Mathers, welcomed his first grandchild, Elliot Marshall, when his daughter Hailie Jade gave birth earlier this year. Since then, fans have been closely watching the rapper, whose life story—from his gritty upbringing in Detroit to his battles with addiction—has been well-documented in his music. While Eminem has always been private about his family, his recent behavior at a Detroit charity event on April 10, 2025, caught the attention of diehard fans. During the event, which raised funds for local youth programs, Eminem was spotted smiling more frequently and engaging in lighthearted banter with attendees—a stark contrast to his typically stoic demeanor.

The subtle change? Eminem has started wearing a small, silver pendant necklace engraved with the letter “E” for Elliot, a detail first noticed by fans in photos from the event. Long-time followers quickly connected the dots, recalling that Eminem has rarely worn jewelry outside of his signature style—typically limited to a simple chain or watch. “I’ve been a fan since The Slim Shady LP in ‘99, and I’ve never seen Em wear something so personal,” one fan wrote on X. “That ‘E’ pendant for his grandson—it’s such a quiet but huge shift for him.” Another added, “He’s always been about his kids, but this? It’s like he’s carrying Elliot with him everywhere. I’m shocked but so happy for him.”

The pendant’s significance goes deeper when viewed through the lens of Eminem’s history. The rapper has often used his music to express his devotion to his children—Hailie, Alaina, and Stevie—most notably in songs like “When I’m Gone” (2005) and “You’re Never Over” (2010). But public displays of sentimentality have been rare for Eminem, whose Slim Shady persona and public image have long been defined by intensity and defiance. Fans point to his 2024 album, The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce), as a symbolic turning point, where he retired his alter ego, signaling a new chapter in his life—one that now includes grandfatherhood.

Social media erupted with reactions as fans processed the change. “Eminem wearing a necklace for Elliot is the most wholesome thing I’ve ever seen,” one user posted. “It’s like he’s finally letting himself be soft in public, and I’m here for it.” Others noted how the pendant aligns with Eminem’s evolving priorities, especially since achieving sobriety in 2008 and focusing on family over fame. His recent activities—like hosting a low-key birthday party for Elliot at his Detroit home, as reported by The Detroit Free Press—further underscore this shift.

Eminem hasn’t publicly commented on the necklace, but those close to him say grandfatherhood has brought out a new tenderness. “Marshall’s always been a family man at heart, but Elliot has softened him in ways even he didn’t expect,” a source told PEOPLE. With a net worth of $140 million and a legacy that includes 220 million records sold worldwide, Eminem’s subtle change as a grandfather speaks volumes to fans who’ve followed his journey. The “E” pendant, small as it may be, is a powerful symbol of a rapper who, at 52, is embracing a new role with the same fierce love he’s always shown his family—just in a way only the most loyal could notice.