Eminem's tribute to late friend

Showbiz

09:30 14 April 2006

Eminem has paid tribute to best friend Proof, who was shot dead in Detroit on Tuesday (11.04.06).

The star - who was seen in tears after hearing the rapper had been gunned down during a row outside the city's CCC nightclub - has posted a message on his website, www.eminem.com.

It reads: "RIP Proof. Memorial service arrangements are still being made, and his family and friends would appreciate privacy during this difficult time.

"Arrangements for fan remembrances are also being planned. The details will be posted on Proof's official site, IronFistRecords.com."

Proof - who was part of Eminem's rap collective D12 and was best man at his wedding in January - was shot in the head during a gunfight.

Another man was also shot and at the time of writing is still in a "critical" condition.

Eminem - who recently announced he was divorcing wife Kim Mathers for the second time - had been close to 32-year-old Proof for several years.

The pair often performed together and Proof - real name DeShaun Holton - co-starred in Eminem's film '8 Mile' in 2002.

(C) BANG Media International