Jamie Foxx returned to the stage in a big way, sharing his remarkable recovery story during his Netflix comedy special, What Had Happened Was. The multi-talented actor, singer, and comedian opened up about the medical emergency in 2023 that left him hospitalized and fighting for his life. In a heartfelt moment, Foxx expressed gratitude for the second chance at life, revealing that his survival was nothing short of miraculous.
Jamie Foxx Shares A Powerful Story of Recovery and Humor
Jamie Foxx began his special with high energy, dancing on stage and proclaiming, “I’m back!” before delving into the harrowing experience. On April 11, 2023, Foxx experienced a severe headache, which led to him blacking out and remaining unconscious for weeks. He humorously recounted how his friends, unsure of what to do, took him to a doctor who administered a cortisone shot, before his sister, Deidra, insisted on getting him to Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta. There, doctors discovered that Foxx was suffering from a brain bleed that had caused a stroke. Foxx credits his sister with saving his life, as she prayed for him during the critical surgery.
As Jamie Foxx began his recovery, he faced the challenge of re-learning basic functions, including walking and even using the bathroom. Despite these challenges, Foxx’s sense of humor never wavered. He shared how his family shielded him from the outside world during his recovery, with his daughter, Anelise, playing her guitar for him, which he described as “God in that guitar.” Foxx’s road to recovery was long and difficult, but his gratitude for his second chance was evident in every word.
In his special, Foxx also addressed the wild conspiracy theories that circulated about his condition, poking fun at internet rumors and reflecting on his spiritual journey. He ended the performance with an emotional thank you to those who supported him, his family, and the doctors who saved his life. Foxx’s return to the stage was more than a performance; it was a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of humor in the face of adversity.
