Jamie Foxx, 58, Recalls Health Scare & New Standup Special

Jamie Foxx, 58, feels more creative than ever, three years after a significant health scare. The actor, comedian and singer recently discussed his near-death experience in 2023, a brain bleed that led to a stroke.

"Man, I almost died," Foxx told ABC News’ Will Reeve in an interview that aired Monday on Good Morning America. "I was almost outta here. Stand-up comedy doesn’t come from an accomplished position. I have something to connect with people and say, ‘Hey, man, I went through some stuff and I’m gonna tell it as funny as I can, but as real as I can.’"

Nurses told Foxx his chances of survival were slim, calling his recovery a miracle. Foxx credits his close circle of friends and loved ones for aiding his recovery. He recalled being in a wheelchair and feeling vulnerable, stating, "I had to depend on people." He emphasized how people remember you, saying, "When we all go, it’s how they speak your name. It’s how they feel about you. So, I kind of keep that in the back of my head when I’m telling jokes."

Following medical treatment and a recovery plan that included playing pickleball, Foxx has returned to the stage. His latest project, a new Hulu standup special titled Jamie Foxx: Take Care of Yourself, premieres Wednesday. The special was filmed in Oakland, California, where Foxx began his career after winning the Bay Area Black Comedy Competition & Festival in 1991. He also welcomed his daughter, Anelise, to perform with him in the special, celebrating her musical talents.