In his newly released Netflix comedy special Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was, the Oscar-winning actor and Grammy-winning musician shares a deeply personal account of his near-fatal health crisis. Foxx, 55, revealed for the first time that he suffered a severe medical emergency in April 2023 while filming the movie Back in Action in Atlanta, Georgia. What initially seemed like a headache quickly escalated into a stroke and brain bleed, leaving Foxx in a weeks-long coma and unable to recall a 20-day period of his life.
During the special, Foxx details the harrowing journey from his collapse to his eventual recovery. He explains how his condition deteriorated so drastically that he was on the brink of death, a reality that deeply impacted his family and fans alike. His daughter, Corinne Foxx, initially shared news of his hospitalization, asking for prayers and privacy. After several weeks in an Atlanta hospital, Foxx was moved to a rehabilitation center in Chicago, where his road to recovery began.
Despite the severity of his condition, Foxx infused his storytelling with humor, demonstrating his resilience and gratitude. The special was filmed in October 2024 in Atlanta, where Foxx addressed the audience with heartfelt emotion, reflecting on the support he received during his darkest moments. He credits the love and prayers from his fans, family, and friends for pulling him through, adding that his sense of humor played a crucial role in his healing process.
Foxx’s openness in What Had Happened Was not only showcases his ability to find laughter amidst adversity but also serves as a tribute to his unwavering spirit and the collective strength of his community. As he continues to recover, Foxx remains a beacon of hope and inspiration, showing that even in life’s most challenging moments, it is possible to emerge stronger.
