In a stunning moment that captivated American football fans, rap superstar Eminem made a surprise appearance during the Thanksgiving NFL halftime show, joining forces with fellow Detroit musician Jack White.
Unexpected Performance Electrifies Ford Field
The unexpected collaboration occurred on Friday 28 November 2025 during the highly anticipated match between the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions at Ford Field. While serving as executive producer for this year's halftime spectacle, Eminem took to the stage to perform his iconic 2002 hit "Till I Collapse" alongside White, who provided blistering guitar accompaniment.
This marked the first time the Detroit-native rapper had taken on executive producer duties for the event, giving him creative control over the musical direction. Eminem personally selected Jack White as the main performer for the Thanksgiving celebration, showcasing Detroit's rich musical heritage to a national television audience.
Halftime Highs Can't Prevent Lions Defeat
Despite the electrifying performance that brought the hometown crowd to its feet, the Detroit Lions couldn't translate the musical energy into sporting success. The team ultimately fell to their rivals, the Green Bay Packers, with a final score of 31-24.
The high-energy collaboration between two of Detroit's most celebrated musical exports provided a memorable highlight in an otherwise disappointing result for local fans. The surprise appearance demonstrated Eminem's ongoing commitment to his hometown, even as his music continues to reach global audiences.
Detroit's Musical Legacy Takes Centre Stage
The Thanksgiving NFL halftime show has become known for featuring major musical acts, but this year's Detroit-focused production stood out for its authentic celebration of the city's cultural contributions. By bringing together rap and rock royalty from the same city, the performance created a unique moment that resonated far beyond the stadium.
While the Lions may have lost the game, the halftime spectacle succeeded in putting Detroit's vibrant music scene back in the national spotlight, proving that even in defeat, the city knows how to put on a show worth remembering.
