Eminem to play key role in Detroit Lions Thanksgiving Day halftime show

Jackie Longo

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Eminem to play key role in Detroit Lions Thanksgiving Day halftime show image

Eminem has signed a deal to help make the Detroit Lions' Thanksgiving Halftime Show a performance you won't forget. 

In an announcement shared on X on Thursday, Nov. 13, the Lions revealed that they signed a partnership with Slim Shady, also known as Marshall Mathers, and his longtime manager, Paul Rosenberg, to consult on the team's Thanksgiving show through 2027.

The halftime show has become a popular part of the Lions' annual turkey day game. In 2024, the team secured country music star Shabooezy to perform at Ford Field. 

"We're thrilled to be working with Marshall and Paul, who are two of the most accomplished and respected names in the music industry, not to mention longtime Lions fans," team president & CEO Rod Wood said in a statement.

"We look forward to putting together unforgettable shows featuring world-class artists for the fans at Ford Field and the tens of millions watching around the country," Rosenberg added.

The Lions have yet to reveal who the 2025 performer will be. 

Past performers have included Jack Harlow in 2023, Big Sean in 2015 and 2021, Jason Derulo in 2017, Kid Rock in 2010 and 2012, and Mariah Carey in 2005. 

MORE: Eminem joins Detroit's WNBA expansion team investor group

Fans react to Lions' Slim Shady announcement

Fans seem thrilled about the Lions' decision to secure Eminem in the Thanksgiving Day deal. 

"Thank God— please show everyone what the Detroit music culture is all about," one person gushed. 

"Lions start winning now they got their own halftime shows," a second person said. 

"Having Rosenberg on board adds a ton of credibility too. With those two behind the scenes you can expect a show that is true to the Detroit sound and energy," a third added. 

"This is epic," another person said. 

Eminem is undeniably the perfect fit for the role.

The rapper grew up in Detroit before becoming a breakout star in the city's rap battle scene, and he has often credited his hometown for helping shape both his music and his life. 

"I’m just so comfortable here. It’s where I grew up. It’s where I basically spent all my teenage years. And it’s just that I don’t live too far from where I spent those years," the rapper told the "Detroit Metro Times" back in 2009.

"I can always go back and revisit my old neighborhood any time I want... It brings back memories for me. And there are a lot of memories I have here in Detroit."

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Staff Writer