Eminem fans have shared intriguing theories about the meaning behind his latest studio album, The Death Of Slim Shady (Coup de Grace).

Since the album’s announcement in April, fans have been speculating about the implications for the rap icon’s notorious alter-ego. Could Eminem be on the verge of doing the unthinkable and permanently ending Slim Shady?

The 51-year-old rapper certainly seems to hint at such a possibility. The official album announcement teased Shady’s demise, promising to “recreate the events that led to the murder of Slim Shady.”

Fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts on whether this could truly be the case. On X, the fan account @EminemDetroit88 suggested the album might be a test to see if Slim Shady could survive in modern pop culture, calling it a “genius” move. “Now I see why the album is called The Death of Slim Shady. The concept of the album is to bring Slim back and see if he can survive in today’s climate. Genius,” they wrote.

This theory has resonated with many fans, who have called the idea “fun” and “an interesting concept.”

“I have a feeling Eminem really is about to drop the world on its head,” one fan replied.

Another wrote, “If he goes in hard on the world now & how easily people get upset, it could be one of the greatest albums ever. I can’t wait to hear it.” A third commented, “FR… I think he wants to be the most offensive he can be and see if he is finally canceled.”

A concept album examining whether Slim Shady could survive in today’s social climate is indeed compelling, especially as Eminem once rapped that Shady was sent by God “to piss the world off.”

Eminem seems to have kicked off this exploration with his latest single, “Houdini,” which has already sparked backlash for its apparent diss towards rapper Megan Thee Stallion.

In the track, Eminem raps, “If I was to ask for Megan Thee Stallion if she would collab with me / Would I really have a shot at a feat?” The lyric appears to reference Stallion being shot in the foot by rapper Tory Lanez in 2020.

Fans were clearly disappointed by the slight, calling it “disgusting” and urging him to “Leave Megan alone.”

“Eminem is too old to still be name-dropping for shock value. It was ‘cool and edgy’ back in ‘01 but dude, you’re 50. Evolve as an artist,” one user wrote in a damning reaction to the song.