In a poignant return to the spotlight, Jamie Foxx opened up about his near-fatal health crisis during his Netflix comedy special, Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was…. The actor shared details about a life-threatening medical complication he faced in April 2023, when he suffered a brain bleed that led to a stroke.
How It All Began
Jamie Foxx’s ordeal began with a severe headache that struck on April 11, 2023, while he was filming Back in Action in Atlanta. He recalled, ‘I was fighting for my life. I asked my boy for an aspirin, and before I could get it, I went out. I don’t remember 20 days.’ His sister, Deidra Dixon, played a crucial role in getting him to the hospital when she recognized that something was wrong.
During his medical emergency, doctors at Piedmont Hospital explained that he had a brain bleed, and immediate action was necessary to save his life. Foxx shared, ‘The doctor said, if I don’t go into his head right now, we’re going to lose him.’
The Recovery Journey
Following surgery, Foxx found himself in a wheelchair, awakening to a reality he struggled to comprehend. He humorously reflected, ‘I was like, Why the f–k am I in a wheelchair? I felt like a f–king prank.’ Despite the gravity of his situation, Foxx maintained a sense of humor throughout his recovery, stating, ‘That stroke doesn’t give a f–k about Jamie Foxx.’
His recovery was not just physical; his family, especially his daughter Anelise, played a vital role in his healing. He credited her guitar performances at his bedside as a form of spiritual support that helped stabilize his condition.
Sharing His Story
In his special, Foxx expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from his fans and friends, stating, ‘I didn’t want her to see me like that,’ referring to his daughter. He humorously added that during his ordeal, he glimpsed a tunnel and comically wondered if he saw ‘the devil’ or Sean “Puffy” Combs.
Foxx’s experience serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of health. He stated, ‘I went to hell and back,’ sharing his hope that by telling his story, he could help others facing similar challenges.
Moving Forward
Now fully recovered, Foxx demonstrates resilience and determination to return to his career, highlighting the strength of family and community support during tough times. As he continues to entertain, his experience has crafted a deeper connection with his audience, reminding them that laughter can be a powerful tool for healing.
