Eminem, 52, allegedly wanted Mariah Carey, 56, to play his mother in the 2002 film 8 Mile, despite their four-year age difference, according to music producer Damion "Damizza" Young. Young claimed he introduced the two stars after Eminem reached out to him, but Carey was not interested in the role.

Young said he first worked with Carey when he produced her 1998 single "I Still Believe" featuring Krayzie Bone and Da Brat. He introduced Eminem and Carey after Eminem's camp reached out to him with the 8 Mile offer, which he didn't necessarily approve of. According to Young, Carey had recently released "Heartbreaker" with JAY-Z and was doing great in her career, but expressed interest in taking on a movie role src="Vinnie Zuffante/Getty; Evan Agostini/getty" style="width: 100%; height: auto; max-width: 800px; object-fit: cover; display: block; margin: 0 auto;">

Young said he was at a crossroads, feeling that if he didn't say something, he would be the bad guy. He ultimately made the introduction between Eminem and Carey, despite his reservations. According to Young, Carey allegedly asked for Eminem's number after learning it was for a movie.

Young claimed he pleaded with Eminem, saying, "Don't do this. I know where you're going with this," making mention of his history with Christina Aguilera. However, Eminem allegedly replied, "No, I genuinely want her in the movie."

During a call to discuss the role, Carey was told, "I want you to play my mother." Young claimed Carey did not like that at all, and her insecurities kicked in big time.

Kim Basinger, now 71, was ultimately cast in the role of Eminem's alcoholic mother. Reps for Carey and Eminem did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment.

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Released in 2002, 8 Mile is based on Eminem's own life as an aspiring Detroit rapper. The film shows his character, B-Rabbit, navigate the underground rap battle scene before finding success. The late Brittany Murphy starred as his love interest, Alex. Anthony Mackie, Mekhi Phifer, and Taryn Manning also appear in the musical drama. "Lose Yourself" won the Oscar for Best Original Song from the film. Eminem famously skipped the 2003 ceremony, however.

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The film's success catapulted Eminem to international stardom, and he has since become one of the most successful rappers of all time. Despite the controversy surrounding his personal life, Eminem has continued to produce hit music, solidifying his place in the music industry.