Jason Whitlock has never been shy about sharing his opinions, but this time he lit a wildfire across the internet. After news broke that Eminem would be helping produce the Detroit Lions’ Thanksgiving halftime shows through 2027 — and after the rapper’s surprise involvement in a recent team event — Whitlock took direct aim at one of Detroit’s most iconic figures. And he did it with the type of over-the-top commentary that instantly set social media on fire.
Whitlock argued that the Lions were sending the “wrong message” by partnering with Eminem, turning what should’ve been a feel-good moment for Detroit into a national debate. He framed the rapper’s involvement as a negative reflection on the city and the franchise, firing shots that many fans felt crossed into personal territory. But as expected, Detroit wasn’t having it. Supporters of both the Lions and Eminem pushed back immediately, pointing out how deeply the star has invested in the city and how big the partnership is for the franchise’s culture and visibility.
What’s even more ironic is the timing. The Lions are enjoying one of the most successful stretches of football in decades, the fanbase is more energized than ever, and now the team is being elevated into mainstream entertainment conversations thanks to a global star who genuinely loves Detroit. Instead of celebrating that momentum, Whitlock chose chaos — but that chaos only fueled the headline even more.
The more he talked, the louder the responses grew. Fans, analysts, and even entertainers joined the conversation, calling Whitlock’s criticism unnecessary, outdated, or simply attention-seeking. Meanwhile, Eminem hasn’t said a word. He doesn’t have to. Detroit is already speaking for him.
In the end, Whitlock may have created the controversy he wanted, but the moment again proved something undeniable: the Lions and their city have leveled up, and even their halftime producers draw national headlines now. Detroit is louder, prouder, and more united than ever — and no amount of commentary is slowing that down.
A Bad Look for Detroit’: Jason Whitlock Slams Eminem After Lions Halftime Twist
