Eminem Shocks NYC Crowd With Heartfelt Tribute at Stans Premiere

Pier 17 in New York City was packed on Tuesday (August 6) when Eminem surprised everyone by stepping onto the stage at the world debut of his documentary Stans. No advance notice fueled speculation among fans outside. The sold-out crowd erupted in cheers as he appeared.

This film explores Eminem’s bond with the fans who have identified themselves as “stans” since his 2000 hit of the same name. Directed by Steven Leckart, it charts his journey from Detroit’s underground rap scene during the 1990s to becoming one of the most influential artists on a global scale. It features dramatic reenactments, exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and personal interviews that reveal how his music both shaped and was shaped by those devoted listeners.

Onstage, the Detroit rapper offered a genuine expression of gratitude. “When I was writing this song, I didn’t understand the impact that my music was having on people at the time,” Eminem told the audience. “It was really surreal to me. And it is still surreal to this day to look out here and see all of you and the fact that my music has inspired you. This film is a thank to all of you.”

He paused to let the cheers wash over him before adding, “This is a thank you to all of you for sticking by me for this whole f###### time. To all my s###, to all my b#######, or my f###### mediocre s###. The good s###, the bad s###, all of it. This film is dedicated to y’all. And I just wanna thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

During that moment, he laughed at fans shouting “I love you” from the seats. Following the screening, Eminem joined a panel discussion where he answered questions about career milestones and the making of Stans.

Among those who attended was actor Devon Sawa, known for portraying Stan in Eminem’s original music video. He shared an image on social media showing his son standing alongside the rapper at the Pier 17 event.