Academy Award-winning actor and comedian Jamie Foxx has candidly shared details of his life-threatening medical crisis in his new Netflix comedy special, Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was…. The special, recorded in October at Atlanta’s Alliance Theatre, reveals the harrowing events surrounding his April 2023 health scare, when he suffered a brain bleed that led to a stroke while filming Back in Action.

A Near-Death Experience

Foxx recounted the emergency that began with a severe headache on April 11, 2023. Moments after requesting an aspirin, he lost consciousness and slipped into a coma. For 15 days, his condition was dire, with unstable vital signs and unresponsive to medication. “Doctors thought they would lose me,” Foxx revealed, describing the ordeal with a blend of heartfelt sincerity and characteristic humor.

Initially misdiagnosed by a doctor who sent him home with a cortisone shot, Foxx was later rushed to Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, where emergency surgery saved his life. “Atlanta saved my life,” he declared multiple times, crediting the city’s medical professionals for his survival.

A Family’s Protective Shield

Foxx expressed deep gratitude to his sister, Deidra Dixon, and daughters, Corinne Foxx and Anelise Bishop, for fiercely guarding his privacy during his recovery. “Nobody sees him!” they declared, ensuring that he could heal away from public scrutiny.

When Foxx awoke on May 4, he had no recollection of the previous three weeks and faced the daunting task of regaining his physical abilities. His recovery took him to a Chicago rehabilitation facility, where he battled dizziness, an inability to walk, and overwhelming anger.

The Road to Recovery

Initially resistant to therapy, Foxx admitted to being “arrogant” and dismissive of his therapists. It was a tough-love approach from one therapist, Holly, that helped him confront his challenges. “She reminded me of the blessings I had,” Foxx shared, noting her encouragement pushed him to persevere.

The journey also reignited Foxx’s faith. “God blessed me with this talent, this money, and this fame. When I forgot about God, He blessed me with a stroke,” he said, reflecting on the spiritual reconnection that helped him through the ordeal.

Humor Amid Hardship

Despite the gravity of his experience, Foxx infused his story with humor. He joked about conspiracy theories surrounding his health, including claims that he was a clone, which he dismissed with a satirical song. He also took light-hearted jabs at Sean “Diddy” Combs, addressing baseless internet rumors that Combs tried to harm him.

“I know what you’re thinking: Did he? Hell no,” Foxx quipped. “I left those parties early.”

Foxx also joked about his time in a coma, sharing that he didn’t see a light but instead a tunnel that was “hot,” making him wonder if he was heading to the wrong place.

A Celebration of Life

The special concluded on an emotional note, with Foxx giving thanks for his family, the medical professionals who saved his life, and the unwavering support of his fans. The performance also featured musical interludes, including a heartfelt moment when his daughter Anelise played guitar while Foxx sang.

Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… is now streaming on Netflix.

Source: Yahoo News