DMX’s Poignant Farewell: A Million-Dollar Memory and Lasting Hip-Hop Legacy Unveiled in His Final Interview

In a moment of profound reflection that now resonates with heartbreaking significance, legendary rapper and actor DMX, born Earl Simmons, offered fans an intimate glimpse into his life just weeks before his untimely passing. An exclusive preview from HollywoodLife reveals a segment of his final interview for TVOne’s acclaimed docuseries, UNCENSORED, where DMX candidly discusses a pivotal moment in his career: encountering a monumental $1 million check for the very first time. This interview serves as a poignant testament to his journey, his triumphs, and the enduring spirit of an artist who left an indelible mark on music and culture.

The conversation, captured only three weeks before his devastating death at the age of 50, provides a unique window into DMX’s personal reflections. Speaking openly in front of the cameras for his episode of UNCENSORED, DMX shared a memory that encapsulated a significant milestone in his ascent to stardom. HollywoodLife’s EXCLUSIVE preview brings viewers closer to this emotional recollection. “I remember doing Exit Wounds in Canada, Toronto, and it was the first time I’d seen a million-dollar check,” DMX confessed in the sneak peek. This admission speaks volumes about the journey of an artist who rose from challenging beginnings to achieve commercial success, a journey marked by raw talent, relentless dedication, and an unmistakable voice that captivated millions. The memory is not just about the monetary value, but the symbolic weight of such an achievement for someone who had overcome so much.

As he delved deeper into the memory, the iconic rapper recalled the shared excitement of that moment, surrounded by fellow actors and friends. He recounted hanging out with prominent figures such as Mekhi Phifer, Terrence Howard, and his frequent collaborator, Anthony Anderson, during the filming of Exit Wounds. “We would just hang out together,” DMX fondly remembered, painting a picture of camaraderie and shared experience on set. He vividly described how the group collectively marveled at the substantial sum, revealing that they all took a picture with the impressive $1 million check, almost in disbelief at its presence. “You can make up to a million dollars, but just one check for a million dollars, and that wasn’t even the full price? Yeah…” DMX mused, his voice carrying a mix of awe and satisfaction. This anecdote underscores not only the financial success he achieved but also the collective joy and validation that came with reaching such a significant professional benchmark in his multi-faceted career.

The film DMX referenced, the 2001 action thriller Exit Wounds, marked a crucial phase in his evolving career. In this cinematic endeavor, DMX starred alongside action legend Steven Seagal, acclaimed actor Isaiah Washington, and his aforementioned friend and colleague, Anthony Anderson. Exit Wounds was more than just another acting credit; it represented one of DMX’s significant forays into the film industry, solidifying his transition into a multifaceted entertainer who excelled both as a rapper and an actor. His dynamic screen presence and raw intensity brought a unique authenticity to his roles, captivating audiences just as his powerful vocals did in his music. Beyond his acting, DMX’s profound connection to the project was further emphasized by his significant contribution to the soundtrack for Exit Wounds, blurring the lines between his musical and cinematic artistry and showcasing his holistic creative talent.

Tragically, the world bid farewell to DMX on April 9, 2021, a mere three weeks after this reflective interview was conducted. His passing followed a major heart attack he suffered on April 2, which led to his hospitalization and subsequent placement on life support. The news of his critical condition sent shockwaves across the globe, with fans and peers holding vigils and sending prayers. Despite the outpouring of hope and support, DMX, at just 50 years old, succumbed to his health challenges. His death plunged the hip-hop community and the wider entertainment world into deep mourning, marking the loss of an irreplaceable icon. The profound impact of his life and career was evident in the widespread grief that followed. To honor his memory, DMX was laid to rest in New York on April 25, 2021. Preceding his private burial, a heartfelt and extensively attended public memorial was held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, on April 24. This grand event saw thousands gather to pay their respects, including his beloved children and numerous other loved ones, celebrating a life that touched countless hearts and souls.

DMX’s raw and honest conversation with UNCENSORED holds immense historical and emotional weight, as it stands as his very last recorded interview. This final opportunity to hear directly from the late rapper provides fans with an invaluable and intimate connection to his spirit and perspective. The full interview is scheduled to air on May 16 at 8 p.m. EST on TVOne, promising a deeply moving and insightful experience. The TVOne and Swirl Films docuseries, UNCENSORED, is renowned for its unique approach to celebrity storytelling. It meticulously explores the private lives of public figures, offering a platform where they can share their own stories, in their own words. The series delves into their journeys, revealing their successes, celebrating their remarkable feats, and, crucially, uncovering the untold stories and often challenging experiences that shaped their careers. DMX’s episode is particularly significant, as it offers a final, unfiltered narrative from an artist whose life was as complex and powerful as his music.

The forthcoming broadcast of DMX’s *UNCENSORED* interview is more than just a television event; it is a commemorative moment that invites audiences to revisit the wisdom and memories of a hip-hop titan. His reflections on seeing that million-dollar check, a symbol of hard-won success, embody the dreams and aspirations of many. This interview serves as a powerful reminder of DMX’s humble beginnings, his relentless pursuit of his craft, and the ultimate realization of his artistic and commercial ambitions. Through his words, fans can once again connect with the authentic voice of Earl Simmons, a voice that was both gritty and deeply spiritual, full of both vulnerability and strength. The episode promises to be a moving tribute, solidifying his place not just as a music icon but as a deeply human figure whose struggles and triumphs resonated universally.

DMX’s legacy transcends album sales and box office numbers; it lives in the hearts of those who found solace, strength, and truth in his music. His unique delivery, marked by growls and barks, combined with profoundly personal and often spiritual lyrics, carved out an unmatched niche in hip-hop. He wasn’t just a performer; he was a storyteller, a preacher, and a confessor, often battling his own demons publicly, which made him profoundly relatable. The impact of his catalog, from “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” to “Party Up (Up in Here),” continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists. This final interview on *UNCENSORED* offers a crucial piece of that legacy, a last opportunity to hear from the man himself about the journey that defined him. It’s a chance to reflect on the multifaceted artist who navigated the complexities of fame with a raw honesty rarely seen, making his million-dollar memory a testament to his enduring power.

As fans prepare to watch this historical final interview, the sentiment remains clear: DMX’s presence in the music world, and his genuine, often unfiltered personality, will be profoundly missed. The episode on TVOne will not only celebrate his achievements but also remind us of the man behind the music, a man who, despite his struggles, always aimed to inspire and connect. His tale of the $1 million check is but one chapter in a life rich with experiences, challenges, and immense creative output. By preserving his story in his own words, *UNCENSORED* ensures that DMX’s voice, his memories, and his spirit will continue to resonate for years to come, further cementing his place as an unforgettable legend in the annals of entertainment history.