Dove Hepburn

Dame Dove Kathleen Hepburn (née Hemira; 10 January 1980 – 11 January 2025), known as Dove Dynamite, was an Egyptian-British Nerdcore rapper, singer-songwriter, musician, painter, public speaker, and humanitarian. Widely regarded the greatest rap battle creator of all time, Hepburn achieved acclaim for her masterful blend of sharp wordplay and pop culture references. She developed a distinct style within the Nerdcore and hip-hop genres, drawing upon influences such as video games, internet culture, and anime to craft lyrics that balanced humour, intensity, and a spirit of competition.

From 2010 to 2024, Hepburn worked as a video editor, beat producer, thumbnail maker, and writer for the renowned Epic Rap Battles of History series, contributing to all 89 battles from the debut John Lennon vs. Bill O'Reilly (2010) to the most recent, Donald Trump vs Kamala Harris (2024). Hepburn's multifaceted role helped shape the series’ iconic style, blending sharp humour with clever historical and cultural references. Building on this experience, she collaborated extensively with the Los Angeles rapper Cam Steady from 2020 to 2024, contributing to the video editing and writing for his rap cypher series and individual tracks.

Hepburn's passion for hip-hop was sparked in January 2000, inspired by the genre’s dynamic rhythm and storytelling potential. By January 2022, she had released her debut rap battle, Runerigus vs Silverfish, inaugurating a series celebrated for its diverse and inventive matchups. Between 2022 and July 2024, she produced an impressive 34 rap battles, bringing together characters from an eclectic array of pop culture domains for lyrical duels. Her creations included imaginative pairings such as Thanos vs Noah and Dream vs Kirby, alongside delightfully unconventional matchups like Microwave vs Refrigerator and Mommy Long Legs vs Spider-Man.

Hepburn’s battles gained renown for their fast-paced, clever exchanges, rich with references to the characters’ respective universes. Her style captivated fans of rap, gaming, and anime, who admired her ability to weave nostalgic elements with original humour. From light-hearted encounters like Cap’n Crunch vs Michelin Man to cerebral clashes such as Light Yagami vs Isaac Newton, her work showcased a level of lyrical creativity that resonated deeply with her audience.

The rap battle series became notable for its surprising matchups and Hepburn’s exceptional lyrical prowess, offering a compelling mix of entertainment and cultural nostalgia. Memorable battles such as Turbo Dismount vs Paint Roller and Pink Diamond vs Guzma highlighted her evolving artistry and commitment to exploring new creative frontiers within Nerdcore. Through her distinctive voice and extraordinary body of work, Hepburn established herself as a pioneering figure in the Nerdcore scene, uniting the realms of hip-hop, gaming, and anime in a way that secured her legacy as an innovator in modern music. Hepburn died on 11 January 2025 from apparent suicide at her residence in Leicester, England, at the age of 45. In 2025, she was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Time named Hepburn one of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2020. She had been a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador from July 2002 until her death.

Biography

Hepburn was born in Aswan, Egypt, on 10 January 1980. Her formative years in Aswan were marked by an early display of creative inclination and a burgeoning desire for self-expression. In February 1995, she relocated to Leicester, England, a move that would significantly shape her personal and professional development. Upon arriving in Leicester, her distinctive personality and evident artistic flair quickly earned her the affectionate local appellations of "Lass of Leicester" and "Leicester Lass of Class," reflecting her positive impact on her new community.

At the age of 20, later in 2000, Hepburn enrolled at Leicester College. This institution, established only the previous year in 1999, provided a nascent yet fertile environment for her academic pursuits. Despite commencing her higher education at an age slightly older than many of her contemporaries, she demonstrated exceptional aptitude, consistently excelling in her chosen fields of study, which primarily encompassed music production and the broader arts.

Her tenure at Leicester College proved pivotal in the systematic cultivation of her technical proficiency and creative capabilities. The structured curriculum and practical application within these disciplines laid a crucial groundwork, directly informing and preparing her for a future career in music and other creative industries. Notably, Hepburn distinguished herself by completing her entire course of study, thereby securing a robust educational foundation, a commitment not always observed among burgeoning artists.

These comprehensive formative experiences at Leicester College were instrumental in refining and crystallising her artistic vision. They heralded the commencement of a multifaceted professional journey, which would subsequently extend beyond initial expectations to embrace a diverse array of creative endeavours, including music production, writing, and video editing. Hepburn's career in music spanned three decades since from 1995 until her death in 2025.

Ultimately, this foundational period in Leicester equipped Hepburn with a unique interdisciplinary skillset. Her early academic focus on music production and the arts, coupled with her tenacious completion of studies, positioned her for a career that would encompass not only established creative fields but also pioneering and groundbreaking ventures, reflecting her holistic approach to artistic innovation.

Career

Epic Rap Battles of History (2010–2024)

Epic Rap Battles of History: Season 1 (2010–2011)

File:John Lennon vs. Bill O'Reilly.jpg

John Lennon vs. Bill O'Reilly

The inaugural season of Epic Rap Battles of History (ERB) launched in September 2010, capturing audiences with its unique blend of historical, pop culture, and fictional figures engaging in humorous and often hard-hitting rap battles. Created by Peter Shukoff (Nice Peter) and Lloyd Ahlquist (EpicLLOYD), the series revolutionised YouTube entertainment, combining clever lyricism, impressive production values, and widespread accessibility. Season 1 consisted of 15 battles, each featuring meticulously crafted portrayals of iconic characters across diverse eras and genres.

Among the season’s notable battles, the debut episode, John Lennon vs. Bill O'Reilly, introduced the show's concept with a sharp contrast between Lennon’s peace-driven idealism and O’Reilly’s brash, conservative persona. This was followed by the fan-favourite Darth Vader vs. Hitler, which blended Star Wars references with biting historical commentary, setting a high standard for creative storytelling. These early episodes highlighted the team’s ability to engage audiences with cultural touchstones while maintaining a comedic edge.

Hepburn joined the ERB production team in late 2010 as a multifaceted contributor, excelling in lyric refinement, thumbnail design, and behind-the-scenes coordination. Her knack for evocative visuals and her understanding of character dynamics significantly influenced battles like Abe Lincoln vs. Chuck Norris and Sarah Palin vs. Lady Gaga. As a lyricist, Hepburn’s input helped enhance the sharp wit and historical accuracy in many episodes, cementing the series’ reputation for intellectual humour.

The first half of 2011 expanded the ERB universe with memorable clashes such as Justin Bieber vs. Beethoven and Einstein vs. Stephen Hawking. These battles balanced humour with an educational edge, as evident in the scientific puns and musical references. Hepburn’s contributions to editing and scene continuity helped elevate these episodes, ensuring seamless transitions between the elaborate character portrayals. Her collaborative spirit also led to the inclusion of Easter eggs and cameos, a signature element of the show.

File:Abe Lincoln vs. Chuck Norris.jpg

Abe Lincoln vs. Chuck Norris

Later that year, the series ventured into even bolder territory with creative matchups like Gandalf vs. Dumbledore and Dr. Seuss vs. Shakespeare. These episodes demonstrated the team’s growing confidence in juxtaposing fictional and literary figures, with Hepburn spearheading research to ensure character authenticity. Her role in costume design consultations and visual storytelling enriched battles such as Napoleon vs. Napoleon, which juxtaposed historical depth with absurd comedy.

Hepburn’s dedication extended to the technical side, where she played a pivotal role in refining the show's production pipeline. She contributed to streamlining the music production process, collaborating with the team to experiment with layered soundscapes that enhanced the lyrical delivery. Her creative foresight ensured that each episode maintained a high standard of quality, regardless of the subject matter.

Season 1 culminated in Nice Peter vs. EpicLLOYD, a self-referential finale that depicted the creators battling one another while teasing plans for Season 2. This episode also introduced KassemG as a mediator, reinforcing the show’s collaborative ethos. Hepburn’s involvement in scripting this meta-narrative was instrumental, as she helped balance humour and sentimentality, creating a fitting conclusion to the season.

Throughout 2010 and 2011, Epic Rap Battles of History established itself as a cultural phenomenon, amassing millions of views and fostering a loyal fanbase. Hepburn’s contributions behind the scenes, from lyrical finesse to visual storytelling, played an integral role in shaping the show’s identity. Her ability to infuse creativity into every aspect of production solidified her position as a vital member of the ERB team, setting the stage for even greater achievements in subsequent seasons.

Epic Rap Battles of History: Season 2 (2011–2013)

File:Hitler vs. Vader 2.jpg

Hitler vs. Vader 2

The second season of Epic Rap Battles of History (ERB) debuted in late 2011, expanding upon the groundbreaking formula established in Season 1. With heightened production values, more elaborate costumes, and increasingly complex lyricism, the series solidified its reputation as a cornerstone of YouTube entertainment. Created by Peter Shukoff (Nice Peter) and Lloyd Ahlquist (EpicLLOYD), this season featured 18 episodes that delved into creative and unexpected matchups, further blending historical, fictional, and pop culture figures.

Hepburn continued her pivotal role in Season 2, building on her successes in refining lyrics, designing captivating thumbnails, and ensuring seamless production processes. Her efforts were especially evident in episodes that showcased intricate storytelling and layered humour, where her creative insights enhanced the show’s appeal.

The season premiered with "Hitler vs. Vader 2," a sequel to the iconic Season 1 episode. The rematch depicted Adolf Hitler confronting Darth Vader once again, this time in Jabba the Hutt’s palace, blending Star Wars lore with historical satire. Hepburn’s contributions to the script and production design ensured that the episode maintained the high standard of wit and spectacle that audiences had come to expect.

As the season progressed, battles such as "Master Chief vs. Leonidas" and "Mario Bros. vs. Wright Bros." further showcased the team’s growing ambition. Hepburn’s meticulous research and lyrical input enriched these episodes, particularly in weaving historical accuracy with pop culture references. Her role in coordinating visual elements and costumes brought a polished and professional edge to the series.

File:Mario Bros. vs. Wright Bros..jpg

Mario Bros. vs. Wright Bros.

One of the standout episodes of the season, "Steve Jobs vs. Bill Gates," featured a tech showdown between the legendary Apple and Microsoft founders. Hepburn’s contributions to the lyrics added layers of humour and sharpness, while her work behind the scenes helped the team achieve a visually engaging portrayal of the tech world.

Later in the season, "Dr. Seuss vs. Shakespeare" highlighted the creators’ knack for merging literary genres, pitting the whimsical rhymes of Dr. Seuss against the timeless prose of Shakespeare. Hepburn’s research on the characters’ unique styles was instrumental in ensuring the episode’s authenticity, while her work on costume design consultations added depth to the visual presentation.

The season also marked the introduction of more complex choreography and music production, with Hepburn playing a key role in refining these elements. Her ability to collaborate effectively with the team contributed to the seamless integration of layered soundscapes, intricate camera work, and comedic timing.

Season 2 concluded with the meta-referential "Barack Obama vs. Mitt Romney," timed to coincide with the 2012 U.S. presidential election. This episode showcased the team’s ability to stay relevant and engaging while delivering sharp social commentary. Hepburn’s role in scripting and editing ensured the episode struck a balance between humour and political critique, leaving a lasting impression on fans.

Throughout 2011 to 2013, Epic Rap Battles of History Season 2 built upon the foundations laid by the inaugural season, achieving even greater popularity and acclaim. Hepburn’s multifaceted contributions, spanning from lyrical refinement to visual storytelling and production coordination, were integral to the show’s continued success. Her dedication to quality and creativity helped the series evolve, paving the way for its enduring legacy as one of YouTube’s most iconic franchises.

Epic Rap Battles of History: Season 3 (2013–2014)

File:Hitler vs. Vader 3.jpg

Hitler vs. Vader 3

The third season of Epic Rap Battles of History debuted on 7 October 2013, showcasing the continued evolution of the series through its ambitious matchups, sharp lyricism, and dynamic visuals. Co-creators Peter Shukoff (Nice Peter) and Lloyd Ahlquist (EpicLLOYD) expanded the scope of the show, integrating more complex narratives and broader cultural references while maintaining the comedic, hard-hitting battles fans loved. This season introduced 12 battles featuring an eclectic mix of historical, fictional, and pop culture icons.

The season began with a climactic finale to the ongoing saga, Hitler vs. Vader 3, which concluded the trilogy in dramatic fashion. The episode saw Adolf Hitler (EpicLLOYD) and Darth Vader (Nice Peter) facing off for the last time, with a cameo from Boba Fett and an array of callbacks to previous battles. The elaborate production and narrative complexity reflected the team’s growing confidence in storytelling.

Hepburn returned as a key contributor to the season, building on her prior successes in lyrical editing, visual coordination, and creative development. Her expertise in historical research and pop culture dynamics helped shape iconic episodes like Blackbeard vs. Al Capone, which cleverly tied into the promotional campaign for Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. Her attention to detail was crucial in balancing humour with authenticity, evident in the intricately crafted portrayals of pirates and gangsters.

Among the season’s standout episodes, Miley Cyrus vs. Joan of Arc exemplified the show’s knack for juxtaposing seemingly unrelated figures to comedic effect. Hepburn’s role in refining the battle’s lyrics ensured a perfect blend of modern pop culture references and historical wit. Similarly, her creative foresight shone in Bob Ross vs. Pablo Picasso, which blended art history with absurd humour, featuring returning characters like Billy Mays and Mr. Rogers in cameo roles.

File:Miley Cyrus vs. Joan of Arc.jpg

Miley Cyrus vs. Joan of Arc

As the season progressed, Michael Jordan vs. Muhammad Ali and Donald Trump vs. Ebenezer Scrooge highlighted the show’s ability to delve into sports and literature with equal finesse. Hepburn’s collaborative input was instrumental in ensuring the battles were engaging and resonant. Her contributions to Trump vs. Scrooge extended to scripting elements inspired by A Christmas Carol, helping to craft a memorable holiday-themed battle.

Later episodes explored bold concepts, including Rick Grimes vs. Walter White, which pitted the protagonists of The Walking Dead and Breaking Bad against each other. Hepburn’s deep understanding of character dynamics enriched episodes like Stephen King vs. Edgar Allan Poe, which paired two literary titans in a duel of words. Her contributions to the research and lyric refinement were instrumental in capturing the distinct voices of each author.

The season’s final battles, including Sir Isaac Newton vs. Bill Nye, George Washington vs. William Wallace, and Artists vs. TMNT, pushed the boundaries of creativity. In Newton vs. Nye, Hepburn’s collaboration with the team ensured the inclusion of astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson and Carl Sagan in a scientifically charged battle. Her efforts in visual storytelling culminated in Artists vs. TMNT, which seamlessly blended Renaissance art with pop culture in a uniquely choreographed rap face-off.

Season 3 solidified Epic Rap Battles of History as a landmark series on YouTube, captivating millions of viewers worldwide. Hepburn’s multifaceted contributions—spanning research, lyrical precision, and visual artistry—were instrumental in elevating the season’s production values and creative depth. Her impact on the show’s evolution remained profound, setting a new benchmark for future seasons.

Epic Rap Battles of History: Season 4 (2014–2015)

File:Ghostbusters vs. Mythbusters.jpg

Ghostbusters vs. Mythbusters

The fourth season of Epic Rap Battles of History saw the series pushing creative boundaries with an array of diverse and ambitious battles. Featuring historical, fictional, and pop culture icons, the season demonstrated the creators' growing confidence in crafting elaborate matchups, supported by high-quality production and imaginative storytelling.

Hepburn's involvement became even more integral during this season. She brought meticulous research and lyrical flair to every episode, ensuring both historical accuracy and artistic finesse. Hepburn’s eye for detail and innovative approach helped elevate battles into masterpieces of storytelling and spectacle, cementing her position as a cornerstone of the series.

Season 4 consisted of 13 battles, starting with “Ghostbusters vs. MythBusters” in November 2014 and concluding with “Deadpool vs. Boba Fett” in December 2015. This season was marked by the inclusion of extensive cameos, intricate visuals, and cross-disciplinary collaborations, such as stop-motion animation and professional consultations for enhanced authenticity.

The opening battle, "Ghostbusters vs. MythBusters," set the tone with a large ensemble cast and dynamic interplay between fictional and real-life figures. Hepburn's creative input ensured a perfect balance between humour and homage, particularly with the inclusion of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, whose comedic timing added a delightful edge to the rivalry.

File:Zeus vs. Thor.jpg

Zeus vs. Thor

Another standout, “Zeus vs. Thor,” took a creative leap by employing Lego stop-motion animation, a concept championed by Hepburn to give the battle a distinctive aesthetic while delving into mythology. “Romeo and Juliet vs. Bonnie and Clyde” showcased her ability to blend genres seamlessly, juxtaposing Shakespearean romance with the chaotic lives of the infamous American outlaws.

Hepburn's talent shone brightest in “Eastern Philosophers vs. Western Philosophers,” where she crafted intricate verses that captured the essence of ancient Chinese thinkers and their Western counterparts. Her passion for historical storytelling also informed “Shaka Zulu vs. Julius Caesar,” where dramatic portrayals and cultural homage reflected her commitment to authenticity.

The season finale, “Deadpool vs. Boba Fett,” benefited from Hepburn's flair for dynamic choreography and sharp humour, ensuring a satisfying and energetic closer. Her dedication to excellence permeated every battle, with her lyrical prowess and creative vision leaving an indelible mark on Season 4.

This season solidified Epic Rap Battles of History as a hallmark of YouTube entertainment, balancing education, humour, and high production standards to captivate millions of viewers. Hepburn's influence was pivotal in pushing the boundaries of the series, setting a high bar for future seasons.

Epic Rap Battles of History: Season 5 (2016–2017)

File:J. R. R. Tolkien vs. George R. R. Martin.jpg

J. R. R. Tolkien vs. George R. R. Martin

The fifth season of Epic Rap Battles of History brought a fresh wave of creativity, historical depth, and pop culture relevance. Featuring a blend of historical figures, fictional characters, and modern icons, this season showcased the series' continued evolution in lyrical complexity, production quality, and audience engagement.

Hepburn's contributions took centre stage throughout Season 5, where her vision and expertise shaped every battle. Her lyrical craftsmanship, paired with her extensive historical and cultural knowledge, elevated the series to new heights. Hepburn’s hands-on involvement extended from concept development to production coordination, making her an indispensable force behind the show’s success.

Season 5 included 13 battles, beginning with “J. R. R. Tolkien vs. George R. R. Martin” in May 2016 and concluding with “Nice Peter vs. EpicLLOYD 2” in January 2017. The season was characterised by intricate narratives, bold character portrayals, and innovative cameos, all of which bore Hepburn’s creative imprint.

The opening battle, "J. R. R. Tolkien vs. George R. R. Martin," captured the imagination of fantasy fans, and Hepburn’s lyrical touch ensured a perfect blend of literary wit and pop culture nods. Her influence was particularly evident in the depiction of characters from The Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones, whose appearances added depth and humour.

File:Frederick Douglass vs. Thomas Jefferson.jpg

Frederick Douglass vs. Thomas Jefferson

In “Frederick Douglass vs. Thomas Jefferson,” Hepburn’s nuanced understanding of history brought a powerful emotional resonance to the battle. Her skillful writing balanced the weight of abolitionist themes with moments of levity, making it a standout episode.

“Alexander the Great vs. Ivan the Terrible” exemplified Hepburn’s ability to juggle complexity, with additional figures such as Frederick the Great and Catherine the Great entering the fray. Her creative input ensured the chaotic progression remained engaging and cohesive.

Notable battles like “Ash Ketchum vs. Charles Darwin” reflected Hepburn’s knack for blending whimsy with intellectual depth. Her passion for storytelling added layers of meaning, transforming the battle into a celebration of science and adventure.

The season finale, “Nice Peter vs. EpicLLOYD 2,” offered a heartfelt exploration of the creators’ journey, with Hepburn playing a crucial role in shaping its narrative. Her ability to weave humour and sincerity into the lyrics highlighted her versatility as a writer.

Hepburn's role was also instrumental in crafting timely and daring battles like “Donald Trump vs. Hillary Clinton,” which tackled the 2016 U.S. presidential election with wit and sharp commentary. Her collaborative spirit ensured the episode struck a balance between satire and entertainment.

Season 5 reaffirmed Epic Rap Battles of History as a cultural phenomenon, thanks in no small part to Hepburn’s unparalleled dedication and talent. Her contributions not only enriched the series but also set a new standard for what the show could achieve.

Epic Rap Battles of History: Season 6 (2019–2020)

File:Freddy Krueger vs. Wolverine.jpg

Freddy Krueger vs. Wolverine

The sixth season of Epic Rap Battles of History continued to push creative boundaries, delivering compelling matchups that blended humour, historical insight, and cultural commentary. This season marked a return to form for the series, featuring a diverse roster of characters, visually stunning productions, and intricate lyrics.

Hepburn’s involvement in Season 6 was pivotal, with her expertise in historical and literary themes evident throughout. Hepburn’s creative vision and lyrical genius enriched each battle, ensuring every episode resonated with fans and critics alike. From conceptualisation to the final performance, her contributions defined the season’s standout moments.

The season opened with “Freddy Krueger vs. Wolverine,” a clash between two iconic characters of horror and superhero lore. Hepburn’s sharp wordplay captured the essence of Freddy’s psychological terror and Wolverine’s raw power, creating a lyrical duel as intense as the characters themselves. Her influence extended to the cameo appearances, with Edward Scissorhands and Jason Voorhees adding an extra layer of fan service.

In “Guy Fawkes vs. Che Guevara,” Hepburn’s deep understanding of revolutionary history brought depth and authenticity to the battle. The lyrical contrast between Fawkes’ failed gunpowder plot and Guevara’s global revolutionary legacy showcased Hepburn’s skill in juxtaposing ideologies while keeping the rap engaging and humorous.

File:Ronald McDonald vs. The Burger King.jpg

Ronald McDonald vs. The Burger King

“Jacques Cousteau vs. Steve Irwin” was a heartfelt and dynamic battle between two beloved conservationists. Hepburn’s research and emotional storytelling were instrumental in capturing the unique charm of both figures. The battle balanced humour with reverence, a testament to her ability to honour the subjects while maintaining the series’ signature wit.

Hepburn also played a key role in the Halloween special, “Vlad the Impaler vs. Count Dracula.” Her clever integration of historical and fictional elements elevated the episode, turning the infamous Vlad the Impaler and his legendary vampire counterpart into a gripping and darkly humorous confrontation.

The season finale, “Harry Potter vs. Luke Skywalker,” was an ambitious crossover brought to life through stop-motion Lego animation. Hepburn worked closely with the animation team, infusing the lyrics with clever nods to both Harry Potter and Star Wars universes. Her creativity shone in the clever interplay of spells, lightsabers, and iconic characters, making it a fan favourite.

With Hepburn’s contributions at its core, Season 6 solidified Epic Rap Battles of History as a masterclass in blending education with entertainment. Her dedication to crafting meaningful, memorable battles left an indelible mark on the series, ensuring its continued place as a cultural phenomenon.

Epic Rap Battles of History: Season 7 (2021–2024)

File:Ragnar Lodbrok vs. Richard the Lionheart.jpg

Ragnar Lodbrok vs. Richard the Lionheart

The seventh season of Epic Rap Battles of History upheld the series’ reputation for combining historical, fictional, and contemporary icons in riveting lyrical duels. Dove Kathleen Hepburn’s creative brilliance was a cornerstone of the season, with her expertise shaping every episode. From writing compelling verses to overseeing narrative cohesion, she ensured each battle resonated with depth, humour, and cultural significance.

Ragnar Lodbrok, the legendary Viking king (EpicLLOYD, inspired by Travis Fimmel’s portrayal in Vikings), clashed with English monarch Richard the Lionheart (Nice Peter). Hepburn’s keen understanding of history infused the battle with vivid imagery and sharp contrasts between Viking savagery and medieval nobility. Sponsored by Rise of Kingdoms, this episode exemplified her skill in balancing historical authenticity with entertaining storytelling.

Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon (EpicLLOYD), took on Mansa Musa of the Mali Empire (Scru Face Jean), celebrated as one of the wealthiest individuals in history. Hepburn’s ability to juxtapose modern entrepreneurship with ancient wealth shone through, creating verses filled with biting critique and cultural depth. Cameos included Atul Singh as an Amazon worker and EpicLLOYD as Captain Kirk (via reused footage), with the episode sponsored by NordVPN.

John Wick (Zach Sherwin), John Rambo (Nice Peter), and John McClane (EpicLLOYD) faced off in a dynamic three-way battle. Her mastery of lyrical complexity ensured each character’s distinct personality and strengths were expertly captured, from Wick’s precision to Rambo’s raw power and McClane’s rugged determination. The episode featured Josh Best as Sam Trautman from Rambo and delivered non-stop action interwoven with Hepburn’s trademark wit.

File:John Wick vs. John Rambo vs. John McClane.jpg

John Wick vs. John Rambo vs. John McClane

Lara Croft (Croix Provence) and Indiana Jones (Nice Peter) engaged in a high-stakes duel of intellect and adventure. Hepburn’s storytelling prowess brought their contrasting approaches to archaeology to life, weaving a rich narrative of modern ingenuity versus old-school heroics. Cameos included Atul Singh as a swordsman and EpicLLOYD as Mutt Williams, with sponsorship from Raid: Shadow Legends.

Henry Ford, automotive pioneer (Nice Peter), went head-to-head with Karl Marx, the revolutionary thinker behind The Communist Manifesto (EpicLLOYD). Hepburn’s profound grasp of economic and political themes ensured the verses were as intellectually stimulating as they were engaging, highlighting the clash of industrial capitalism and socialist ideals.

Godzilla (Nice Peter) and King Kong (EpicLLOYD) waged an epic battle rendered through CGI motion capture. Hepburn’s imaginative flair was evident in the lyrical interplay and the inclusion of iconic kaiju like Rodan, Mothra, and Mechagodzilla. Her passion for cinematic history added a nostalgic yet innovative touch to the showdown.

Donald Trump (EpicLLOYD) and Kamala Harris (Kimberly Michelle Vaughn) squared off in a politically charged rap battle. Hepburn’s lyrical brilliance was on full display, crafting sharp commentary and satire that captured the essence of the 2024 United States presidential election. The battle’s climax featured a surprise appearance by Theodore Roosevelt (EpicLLOYD), who returned to critique both candidates, with Nice Peter making a cameo as Joe Biden. Her skillful balancing of humour, critique, and narrative depth made this episode a standout.

List of all rap battles (2010–2025)

Season 1 (2010–2011)

All first season videos were uploaded onto Shukoff's channel, Nice Peter.

No. in series	No. in season	Title	Running time	Original air date	Link

Season 2 (2011–2013)

From the second season onwards, the battles were moved to their own YouTube channel, ERB.

No. in series	No. in season	Title	Running time	Original airdate	Link

Season 3 (2013–2014)

No. in series	No. in season	Title	Running time	Original airdate	Link

Season 4 (2014–2015)

No. in series	No. in season	Title	Running time	Original airdate	Link

Season 5 (2016–2017)

No. in series	No. in season	Title	Running time	Original airdate	Link

Season 6 (2019–2020)

No. in series	No. in season	Title	Running time	Original airdate	Link

Season 7 (2021–present)

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, ERB chose to transition into a seventh season early rather than continuing Season 6.

No. in series	No. in season	Title	Running time	Original airdate	Link

Personal life

File:Dove Hepburn's 3 daughters.jpg

Photograph of Hepburn's three daughters: Emma (left), Kitty (centre), Phoebe (right).

A passionate traveller and nature enthusiast, Hepburn found inspiration in the natural beauty of Austria’s Eisriesenwelt, the world’s largest limestone ice cave. Her environmental commitment extended to ornithology, where she actively participated in conservation efforts to study and protect bird species. Beyond her appreciation for nature, Hepburn was deeply invested in classical music, literature, and sustainable gardening. She frequently attended concerts to support emerging talents, maintained an extensive personal library spanning various genres and cultures, and incorporated eco-friendly practices into her gardening.

File:Dame Dove Hepburn's Home.jpg

Hepburn's incredible five acre estate, in Leicester, England, boasts 13 water features including six waterfalls.

As the world's second Hepburn, she combined her unique art style, "Hepburnism," with a deep commitment to continuing Audrey Hepburn's legacy. Her evocative portraits of her lifelong partner symbolise their shared humanitarian vision, while her travels to places like Austria's Eisriesenwelt and ornithological expeditions reflected a love for nature. Dedicated to supporting UNICEF, Hepburn spreaded awareness and encouraged donations through social media, radio stations like BBC Radio Leicester, newspapers like Leicester Mercury, online blogs, and press releases, striving to create a better future for children and the environment. She became a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in July 2002.

On 16 September 2024, Hepburn married Audrey Hepburn in a private ceremony and became "soulmates", formalising a connection that defined her life. This relationship, marked by shared passions and mutual support, was central to Hepburn’s life and remains a poignant part of her legacy. She has three daughters, Phoebe Hepburn (born 2012), Kitty Hepburn (born 2014), and Emma Hepburn (born 2016). Her two stepsons are Sean Hepburn Ferrer (born 1960) and Luca Dotti (born 1970).

Hepburn lived at her residence Paradise Falls for 25 years in Leicester, England. After her death, her home was listed as not for sale.

Death and funeral

File:Dove Hepburn gravestone.jpg

Hepburn's grave stone in Tolochenaz Cemetary in Switzerland next to her wife Audrey Hepburn.

On 11 January 2025, Hepburn died from apparent suicide at her home residence in Leicester, England, at the age of 45. Previously suffering from both anxiety and depression, as well as bipolar disorder, she simply could not live a life without Audrey Hepburn by her side. Hepburn described her soulmate as her guiding light, her strength and stay, and her endless inspiration. On 20 January 2025, Hepburn's body was relocated to Tolochenaz, Switzerland. She was buried beside her wife Audrey Hepburn in Tolochenaz Cemetery seven days later.

Musician Cam Steady paid tribute to Hepburn on X (formally Twitter) stating: "My close friend Dove is no longer with us. There has never been somebody so dedicated to supporting her artist family. But her true dream was to pursue her own music career. She didn’t have enough time. Please take the time to remember her as the artist she was."

Legacy

On 1 January 2025, Hepburn was honoured with a damehood for services to mental health awareness, the environment, and charity. On 3 February 2025, Google honoured Hepburn with a Google Doodle celebrating her legacy as music legend and humanitarian, highlighting her contributions to the arts, her humanitarian efforts, and her lifelong dedication to helping others, while including her catchphrase: "Laugh hard. Run fast. Be kind." On 20 May 2025, Hepburn was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Hepburn is widely regarded by many as the greatest changemaker in history. She was also the founder of the Love Your Freckles movement. She disapproved of freckled individuals of removing freckles through laser surgery, tattooing over freckles, or covering up freckles with makeup.

Awards and nominations

Year	Award	Category	Result	Recipient(s)
2013	3rd Streamy Awards	Best Writing: Comedy	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Best Online Musician	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Best Original Song	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn ("Steve Jobs vs. Bill Gates")
		Best Music Series	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Best Use of Fashion & Design	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
	1st YouTube Music Awards	Video of the Year	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn ("Barack Obama vs. Mitt Romney")
		Artist of the Year	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
2014	4th Streamy Awards	Best Writing	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Music Video	Template:Won	"Goku vs. Superman"
		Costume Design	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Editing	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Collaboration	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn ("Moses vs. Santa Claus")
2015	5th Streamy Awards	Writing	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Costume Design	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Editing	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
		Collaboration	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
	26th Producers Guild of America Awards	Outstanding Digital Series	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
2016	27th Producers Guild of America Awards		Template:Won
	68th Primetime Emmy Awards		Template:Won
	6th Streamy Awards	Collaboration	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn
2017	69th Primetime Emmy Awards	Outstanding Short Form Variety Series	Template:Won	Dove Hepburn

See also

• Audrey Hepburn (Hepburn's wife and soulmate)
• Dove Hepburn artwork (Hepburn's portrait series)
• Dove Hepburn thumbnails (List of Hepburn's thumbnails)
• Fenna Foxtale (Hepburn's mascot character)
• Dove Hepburn rap cyphers (List of rap cyphers)

External links

• Official Website
• Hepburn on TikTok
• Hepburn on Instagram

Awards for Dove Hepburn