Jamie Foxx’s Inspirational Vanguard Award Speech at Critics Choice Celebration

Actor and singer Jamie Foxx made a heartfelt and emotional speech while accepting the Vanguard Award at the Critics Choice Association’s Celebration of Cinema & Television: Honoring Black, Latino, and AAPI Achievements.

This marked Foxx’s first public appearance since his hospitalization in April due to a medical complication, and he shared his journey and reflections on the challenging experience.

Foxx, who has maintained a low profile since his health scare, was honored for his outstanding performance in Amazon Prime Video’s “The Burial.” Co-star Jurnee Smollett presented the award, and during his acceptance speech, Foxx briefly became emotional, expressing gratitude to everyone for their support during his recovery.

Reflecting on his health journey, Foxx revealed the severity of his condition, stating, “I’ve been through some things. You know, it’s crazy, I couldn’t do that six months ago. I couldn’t actually walk,” while holding back tears.

Injecting humor into the moment, Foxx addressed rumors about being “cloned” with a light-hearted joke that garnered laughter from the audience. “And I’m not a clone,” he quipped. “I know a lot of people were saying I was cloned out there… Boy, y’all ain’t shit.”

The 55-year-old then shared details of his near-death experience, mentioning seeing “the tunnel” and adding comedic elements to the narrative. “It feels good to be here. I cherish every single minute now. It’s different,” Foxx expressed. “I wouldn’t wish what I went through on my worst enemy ’cause it’s tough when you almost… when it’s almost over when you see the tunnel.”

Continuing with humor, Foxx recounted seeing the devil during his ordeal, stating, “I saw the tunnel. I didn’t see the light! It was hot in that tunnel, so I didn’t know where I was going. ‘Shit, am I going to the right place?'”

He concluded his speech with a profound reflection on gratitude and faith, saying, “As I walk up here to this microphone and get this Vanguard Award, all I can say is ‘Lord, have mercy, Jesus.'”