Jamie Foxx, 57, became overwhelmed with emotion while reflecting on his “second chance” at life during a heartfelt speech at the 2025 BET Awards. The celebrated actor, comedian, and musician accepted the inaugural Ultimate Icon honor, presented by Stevie Wonder, in a moment that left few dry eyes in the audience. Foxx’s powerful words revisited the harrowing medical emergency he suffered in April 2023, a brain bleed that led to a life-threatening stroke and 20 days of lost memory. With gratitude and vulnerability, Foxx thanked God, his family, and his fans for their unwavering support throughout his recovery, vowing never to take his “second chance” for granted.
The night was a celebration of Foxx’s resilience and enduring legacy. As he stood on stage, Foxx admitted that watching the “In Memoriam” segment made him realize just how close he came to tragedy. “When I saw the ‘in memoriam,’ I was like, man, that could have been me,” he shared, his voice trembling. “But I don’t know why I went through what I went through, but I know my second chance—I’m not going to turn down.” His daughters, Corinne and Anelise, were visibly moved, with Corinne especially highlighted for her crucial role in his recovery.
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A Journey of Recovery and Gratitude
Jamie Foxx’s journey over the past two years has been nothing short of remarkable. After collapsing from a severe headache while filming “Back in Action” in April 2023, he was rushed to the hospital, where doctors discovered a brain bleed and performed emergency surgery. Foxx spent 20 days unconscious, waking up in a wheelchair with no recollection of the event. His sister, Deidra Dixon, played a pivotal role in securing the urgent medical care that ultimately saved his life.
Throughout his recovery, Foxx leaned on the support of his family and medical team. He moved to Chicago for rehabilitation, staying out of the public eye for months as he regained his strength. In his Netflix special, Foxx recounted the terrifying experience with humor and honesty, acknowledging the seriousness of his condition and the fragility of life. “I told whatever force placed this on me that I would make it right,” he said, promising to honor his “second chance” by living with purpose and gratitude.
Foxx’s daughters, especially Corinne, became his pillars of strength. He fondly recalled Corinne being by his side when he needed her most, while Anelise cheered him up with impromptu hospital concerts. “My baby with the big hair… she snuck into my hospital room with her guitar and said, ‘I know what my daddy needs,’” Foxx shared, adding that he believed God was present in those moments of music and love.
Embracing the Present and Future
At the BET Awards, Jamie Foxx’s speech was a masterclass in vulnerability and inspiration. He spoke candidly about the challenges of aging in Hollywood, joking about being cast as the father figure in Disney shows, but also expressed deep appreciation for the opportunities still ahead. “I’m experienced. I don’t want to say I’m old, but I am older,” he quipped. “Thankfully, I have an incredible team that helped me stabilize.”
Foxx’s message was clear: life is precious, and every moment should be cherished. He thanked his fans for their love and support, acknowledging that their prayers and encouragement played a significant role in his recovery. “I cannot even begin to express the love that I feel from everybody out there,” he said, his voice filled with emotion.
The ceremony also featured moving tributes from fellow artists, including Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and Ludacris, who performed Foxx’s hit “Unpredictable.” Tank and Jennifer Hudson took the stage to honor Foxx’s Oscar-winning role as Ray Charles, further cementing his status as an entertainment legend.
A Call to Cherish Every Moment
Jamie Foxx’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, gratitude, and family. His emotional BET Awards speech resonated with millions, offering hope and inspiration to anyone facing adversity. Foxx’s journey from near-tragedy to triumph is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of a “second chance.”
As he continues to recover and rebuild, Foxx remains committed to making the most of his life and career. He has promised to “do right” in front of everyone, never forgetting the lessons learned from his ordeal. For fans and admirers around the world, Jamie Foxx’s story is a call to cherish every moment and embrace the love and support that surrounds us.
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