At the 2025 BET Awards, Jamie Foxx was honored with the Ultimate Icon Award — but it was his emotional speech and powerful tribute from legends like Stevie Wonder and Jennifer Hudson that left the entire audience in tears.

Stevie Wonder Opens with Humor and Heart

Stevie Wonder began the tribute by recalling his first encounter with Foxx. “Just because he played a blind man doesn’t mean we’re besties,” he joked, referencing Foxx’s Oscar-winning portrayal of Ray Charles. But beneath the laughter was reverence.

When Wonder presented Foxx with the Ultimate Icon Award, Jamie’s face reflected overwhelming emotion. From the moment he stepped onto the stage, it was clear this wasn’t just another awards speech — it was a testimony of survival.

Jamie Foxx Reflects on Life After Near Death

Fighting back tears, Foxx recalled his harrowing 2023 health scare, when he suffered a stroke and brain bleed that left him unable to walk or remember nearly 20 days of his life.

“We used to take this thing for granted — that God is good. All the time,” he said, voice cracking.

Seeing the “In Memoriam” segment of the BET Awards shook him. “That could’ve been me,” he admitted, igniting a wave of emotion in the theater.

Family and Faith Saved His Life

Foxx gave thanks to his family, including daughters Corinne and Anelise, and his sister Deidra Dixon, for never leaving his side. In a heartfelt moment, he shared how Anelise once played guitar in his hospital room — a moment doctors later credited for stabilizing his vital signs.

Jennifer Hudson and More Join in Tribute

Jennifer Hudson’s vocal tribute was one of the night’s most powerful highlights. As she belted out a medley of soulful classics, the camera captured Foxx openly crying, shaking his head in disbelief and gratitude.

His speech mixed vulnerability with humor, referencing his early comedy days and mimicking Stevie Wonder’s voice with love. He also highlighted his recent Netflix special, What Had Happened Was…, saying it was dedicated to the Black community that supported him through recovery.

“This is a gift from us. From our people. You held me down,” he said.

A Promise to Live with Purpose

As the crowd roared in applause, Foxx vowed to honor this ‘second chance’ with more intentionality, art, and faith.

“At a certain point, I’m gonna stop crying,” he laughed. “But I ain’t gonna stop just yet.”