Jamie Foxx Opens Up About Near-Death Medical Emergency in Emotional Netflix Special

Jamie Foxx is breaking his silence on the terrifying health ordeal that nearly claimed his life. In his Netflix special, Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was…, premiering December 10, the Oscar-winning actor and comedian shares deeply personal details about the mysterious medical emergency that left him in a coma in April 2023.

During the taping of the special in Atlanta, Foxx told the audience he was “literally seconds and moments away from death” when he collapsed in Georgia while working on his Netflix movie Back in Action with Cameron Diaz. According to audience member Demecos Chambers, who recounted Foxx’s harrowing story to PEOPLE, the collapse wasn’t on set but was triggered by “pure exhaustion” and the toll of his intense schedule.

Foxx revealed that after passing out, he initially thought he’d only been unconscious for a few hours. However, the reality was much graver—he had been in a coma for several weeks.

One of the most heartwarming moments Foxx shared involved his daughter. While he was unresponsive, one of his daughters would play the guitar for him daily, strumming one of their favorite songs. “He said that’s the only thing he could recall hearing in his sleep, and it brought him essentially out of his coma,” Chambers said.

The road to recovery was grueling for Foxx, who spent time at a rehabilitation facility relearning motor skills. “He talked about how his motor skills he had to start from day one,” Chambers added.

Despite the heavy subject matter, Foxx managed to inject humor into the special. “While he’s telling the story, he’s throwing bits in there left and right,” said Chambers. “It’s stand-up comedy. He’s dancing a little bit. He’s playing songs on the piano.”

Foxx has previously spoken about his health scare on Instagram, where he reflected on the emotional experience of sharing his journey with fans. “My heart and my soul is filled with nothing but pure joy,” he wrote.

Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… offers an intimate and inspiring glimpse into the resilience of one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars.

What are your thoughts on Jamie Foxx’s journey and his ability to find humor in such a challenging time? Share your thoughts in the comments below!