Jamie Foxx's Netflix Special Blends Humor and Heart After Life-Threatening Stroke

In a remarkable return to the stage, Jamie Foxx's Netflix special, *What Had Happened Was*, captures not only the actor's comedic genius but also a deeply personal journey through a near-fatal stroke. The special, which comes on the heels of Foxx’s hospitalization in April 2023, reveals the harrowing details of his medical crisis, his fight for survival, and ultimately, his path to recovery. Foxx opens the special with a poignant acknowledgment of his ordeal, expressing gratitude for being alive. "I was fighting for my life, but I'm here right in front of you," he tells a supportive Atlanta audience, visibly emotional. The choice of Atlanta as the filming location is significant for Foxx, as it marks his roots in stand-up comedy and the city where he received critical care from the healthcare professionals at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital. The timeline of events leading to his hospitalization is particularly chilling. On April 11, 2023, Foxx experienced a severe headache, followed by a blackout that resulted in a 20-day gap in his memory. His initial medical treatment was inadequate, with a doctor giving him a cortisone shot and sending him home. It was only after his sister insisted on further medical evaluation that he was diagnosed with a stroke, which necessitated urgent surgery. Foxx recounts the gravity of the situation, revealing that doctors warned his family he might face a grueling recovery. As he recalls waking up in a rehabilitation center in Chicago, Foxx candidly discusses the confusion and frustration that accompanied his recovery journey. Initially resistant to the rehabilitation process, his determination to maintain his identity as a comedian became a lifeline. Humor, he says, helped him navigate the challenges of recovery, stating, "If I can stay funny, I can stay alive." The special intersperses humor with serious moments, including Foxx's impressions of various celebrities and a humorous nod to the swirling controversies surrounding Sean Combs. His comedic timing shines through even as he addresses serious allegations, creating a juxtaposition of laughter and reflection. Foxx's emotional depth is further revealed as he shares touching moments with his family during his recovery. He credits a visit from his younger daughter, Anelise, who played guitar for him in the hospital, with stabilizing his vital signs. This moment of connection between father and daughter highlights the power of love and music in healing. "You know what I found out? It was God in that guitar," he states, underscoring the spiritual aspect of his recovery. As he brings the performance to a close, Foxx reflects on the near-death experience, humorously recalling a "tunnel" that he thought might lead him to an unexpected destination. This blend of humor with a heartfelt narrative resonates deeply with the audience, connecting them to the raw reality of his experiences. *What Had Happened Was* not only marks Jamie Foxx's triumphant return to the comedic stage but also serves as a testament to resilience, the importance of family, and the healing power of humor. The special has already garnered critical acclaim, being nominated for a Golden Globe Award in the Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television category, reaffirming Foxx’s place as a multifaceted entertainer capable of touching hearts while making audiences laugh.