Jamie Foxx delivered an emotional and unforgettable speech at the 2025 BET Awards, where he accepted the Ultimate Icon Award with his daughters Corinne and Anelise watching from the audience. Overcome with gratitude, Foxx reflected on his near-fatal stroke in April 2023, sharing how the experience made him realize the value of a second chance at life. “I don’t know why I went through what I went through, but I know my second chance, I’m not going to turn it down,” he declared, his voice trembling with emotion as his daughters wiped away tears.

Foxx’s speech was a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering support of his family, especially his daughters. He praised Corinne, 31, for always putting others first and stepping up when he needed her most, saying, “You’ve always taken the backseat to everything. But when you needed to drive it, you drove, and you made sure I was here”. The actor also acknowledged his sister Deidra, who cared for him during his health crisis, and emphasized the importance of family in his recovery.

A particularly touching moment came when Foxx recounted how Anelise, then 14, played a pivotal role during his hospital stay. He recalled doctors warning that his vitals were dangerously low and how Anelise snuck into his room with her guitar, believing music could heal him. As she played, his vitals stabilized, prompting nurses to ask what had changed. “God was in that guitar,” Foxx said, describing the experience as his “spiritual defibrillator”. Anelise later joined him on stage, and they embraced, highlighting the deep bond between father and daughter.

Throughout his speech, Foxx balanced humor and vulnerability, moving both his daughters and the audience to tears. He reflected on gratitude, faith, and the power of love, promising to honor his second chance by living fully and cherishing those who stood by him during his darkest moments.