Hollywood star Jamie Foxx made an emotional and triumphant return to the spotlight during the 2025 BET Awards, held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California, on June 9.
Hosted by comedian Kevin Hart, the night was filled with powerful performances, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable tributes, but none more stirring than Foxx’s moving acceptance speech.
Receiving a standing ovation from the star-studded crowd, Foxx took the stage with visible emotion, recounting the life-threatening health scare that nearly claimed his life two years ago. The Oscar-winning actor and musician suffered a near-fatal stroke in April 2023, caused by a brain bleed, which left him in a coma for 20 days and sparked concern across the entertainment industry.
In his heartfelt address, Foxx expressed deep gratitude for being given another shot at life and at his career.
“I cannot even begin to express the love that I feel from everybody out there. I don’t know why I went through what I went through, but I know my second chance, I’m not gonna turn down,” he said, his voice cracking with emotion.
The moment served as the emotional high point of a tribute segment dedicated to Foxx’s remarkable resilience and impact on music, film, and culture. The tribute featured electrifying and soulful performances by T-Pain, Jennifer Hudson, Babyface, Craig Robinson, and Ludacris all paying homage to Foxx’s decades-long contribution to the arts.
Foxx’s return to the BET stage marked more than just a comeback, it was a celebration of human strength, perseverance, and grace under pressure. Fans and fellow artists alike took to social media to applaud his vulnerability and honesty, noting how inspiring his story is for anyone facing adversity.
As the curtains closed on an unforgettable night, Foxx’s words continued to echo beyond the stage, a reminder of the power of second chances and the importance of holding on to hope.