British actor Tom Hardy is known for his intense roles in films like Venom and Mad Max: Fury Road, but what many don’t know is that he’s also a huge Eminem fan. However, when he finally got to meet the rap legend in 2018, things didn’t go quite as he had imagined.
Tom Hardy’s Cringeworthy Backstage Moment with Eminem
During an appearance on the Whoo’s House podcast with DJ Whoo Kid, Hardy recalled the moment he met Eminem backstage at a concert—and how awkward it was.
🔹 “I went to his concert, and I felt sorry for him because I got ushered into his dressing room to say hello. He had to take a photo with me, and I felt like a real dick.”
Hardy admitted he was excited but felt like a total inconvenience, especially since Em was about to go on stage.
🔹 “He’s nice, but he had to do his job, and then some idiot like me comes in like, ‘Hey!’ He just deadpanned me. I was like, ‘Okay. Now is not the time!’”
Hardy on Why He Loves Eminem
Hardy has been vocal about his admiration for hip-hop, and Eminem, in particular, holds a special place in his heart. During an interview with Yahoo Entertainment, he spoke about his excitement when Eminem recorded a song for the Venom soundtrack.
🔹 “I’m a huge Eminem fan—I’m not gonna lie! I love hip-hop and rap music.”
🔹 “Eminem stands out as an enigma. A unique artist at the highest level.”
For Hardy, getting to work on a project that featured one of his musical heroes was a surreal moment.
Meanwhile, Lil Pump Takes Shots at Eminem
While Hardy respects and admires Eminem, not everyone in the industry feels the same way.
Mumble rapper Lil Pump has been on a mission to disrespect Eminem, taking jabs at him over his political views. Before the U.S. elections, he took to social media, yelling:
🔹 “Fck you and fck Hailie.”
🔹 “You’re a fcking piece of sht for going on stage and speaking at Kamala Harris’ rally! You’re a fcking piece of sht for taking a picture with Obama.”
Even after the election, Lil Pump kept up his attacks, calling Eminem a “f*cking loser”.
Eminem’s Response? Silence.
Unlike other rap feuds, Eminem has chosen not to acknowledge Lil Pump’s insults. But while some try to tear him down, figures like Tom Hardy and millions of fans continue to see Slim Shady as a rap icon.
One thing’s for sure—whether in Hollywood or hip-hop, Eminem remains one of the most respected artists of all time.
