Jamie Foxx’s recent Netflix comedy special, “Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was,” provided a candid and emotional account of his near-fatal health crisis earlier in 2023. Foxx revealed that he suffered a brain bleed leading to a stroke, triggered by a severe headache in April. The special, filmed in October, marked his first public deep dive into the ordeal since his daughter Corinne Foxx initially announced his hospitalization. While she assured the public of his recovery due to swift medical intervention, Foxx remained largely silent, choosing to address the swirling rumors only minimally. In July, he posted an Instagram video dispelling claims of blindness and paralysis, affirming his recovery and intent to return to work. However, the special offered the first comprehensive narrative from Foxx’s perspective.
The special unveiled the dramatic sequence of events that unfolded. Foxx described experiencing a crippling headache and initially dismissing it, seeking only aspirin. Before he could even take the medication, he lost consciousness. He had no memory of the subsequent 20 days. He recounted being initially misdiagnosed and sent home after a cortisone shot, a decision he ridiculed in his characteristic comedic style. It was his sister, Deidra Dixon, who sensed the gravity of the situation and insisted on taking him to Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta. There, doctors discovered the brain bleed and stroke, performing immediate surgery to save his life. Foxx credited his sister’s quick thinking and unwavering advocacy with being instrumental in his survival. He recounted the doctor’s grim prognosis, describing the upcoming year as potentially the worst of his life, a stark contrast to his usual vibrant persona.
The special delved into the poignant role his daughters played in his recovery. Foxx described his critical condition in the initial 15 days, revealing that his vitals were so precarious that doctors feared for his life. He credits his youngest daughter, Anelise, with a miraculous intervention. Unbeknownst to the medical staff, she snuck into his room with her guitar, playing music that seemed to stabilize his vitals. This touching moment underscored the power of family and love in his healing process. He later brought Anelise on stage to share her musical talent, a heartwarming display of their bond. Foxx’s older daughter, Corinne, alongside his sister, fiercely guarded his privacy during this vulnerable period, shielding him from public scrutiny. He acknowledged their protective efforts, explaining that they wanted to prevent any exploitation of his fragile state, especially concerns about potential memes circulating online.
The stand-up routine further detailed Foxx’s arduous journey in the aftermath of the stroke. Waking up after 20 days in a coma, he found himself in a wheelchair, initially resistant to accepting the reality of his condition. He admitted to struggling with the limitations imposed by the stroke, rejecting the support of therapists. It was a physical therapist named Holly who finally broke through his resistance, pushing him to begin the challenging process of rehabilitation. Foxx acknowledged the pivotal role Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta played in his recovery, expressing gratitude to the medical team that “put him back together.” He contrasted this with the rampant online speculation about his health, using humor to address the rumors of paralysis and his inability to walk, even performing a dance to demonstrate his recovered mobility.
The special showcased Foxx’s ability to intertwine humor with the deeply personal, even incorporating the swirling online narratives into his routine. He jokingly referenced allegations against Sean “Diddy” Combs, weaving them into his near-death experience. He played on the online rumors that Combs had attempted to harm him, quipping about leaving Combs’ parties early, sensing a dangerous vibe. He continued the playful banter by suggesting that he had seen Combs, rather than a divine being, at the end of his near-death tunnel experience, further cementing his comedic prowess even when addressing a sensitive topic. This ability to find humor amidst adversity became a recurring theme, demonstrating his resilience and unwavering spirit.
Through his Netflix special, Jamie Foxx provided an intimate and unfiltered look into his health crisis, offering both a moving testament to the power of family and a platform to reclaim his narrative. He acknowledged the severity of the situation, expressing gratitude for those who supported him while also managing to infuse the narrative with humor and hope. His return to the stage, not just physically but also comedically, marked a significant milestone in his recovery and a triumphant return to the public eye. He transformed a harrowing experience into a platform for connection, using vulnerability and humor to share his journey, ultimately inspiring audiences with his resilience and determination.
