Jamie Foxx is getting behind the mic with a new stand-up special for Netflix, where he will finally open up about the medical emergency that left him hospitalized in 2023. The Oscar-winning actor and comedian will use his signature humor to tell the story of his health scare in a special titled “What Had Happened Was,” set to be filmed during a three-night engagement in Atlanta from October 3-5.
Foxx’s health crisis first made headlines in April 2023 when he was hospitalized in Atlanta due to a sudden and severe medical complication. Although the exact cause has never been officially disclosed, Foxx has alluded to the gravity of the situation, recently revealing that it began with a “bad headache” and resulted in him being “gone for 20 days” with no memory of the events that transpired.
The actor’s recovery journey has been shrouded in privacy, with limited updates shared by his family and Foxx himself. Earlier this year, Foxx acknowledged the public’s curiosity about his condition, stating that while he appreciated the support, he preferred to keep the more difficult moments of his recovery private. In an emotional video shared in July, Foxx described his experience as going “to hell and back,” emphasizing that his road to recovery was far from smooth.
Foxx’s special will not only delve into the details of his health scare but will also address the wave of well-wishes and speculations that followed his hospitalization. Announcing the special on Instagram, Foxx invited fans to join him for “an unforgettable one-man show” that promises to blend humor, heart, and inspiration. “Experience Jamie Foxx like never before in this intimate and engaging performance, as he opens up about his struggles, triumphs, and everything in between,” read the post.
Netflix secured the rights to the special in what was reportedly a highly competitive bidding process. This marks Foxx’s return to his comedic roots, a significant moment given that his last full stand-up special, “I Might Need Security,” was released over two decades ago.
In addition to his stand-up comeback, Foxx’s professional schedule is picking up. His Netflix action comedy “Back in Action,” co-starring Cameron Diaz, is set to premiere on January 17. Production on the film, which had been halted due to Foxx’s hospitalization, resumed earlier this year, with Foxx rejoining the project once he was able to return to work.
Jamie Foxx’s journey through his medical ordeal has been a private one, but with “What Had Happened Was,” he’s ready to share his story with the world—on his own terms and in his own style. Fans can expect a night of laughter, reflection, and an intimate look into the life of one of Hollywood’s most resilient stars.