Jamie Foxx delivered an emotional speech while accepting the 2025 BET Ultimate Icon Award on June 9. The multitalented entertainer tearfully thanked Black people for their support during his health crisis. He declared that the BET award means more to him than his Oscar win.
“I say this all the time, thank you to Black people and the Black award, because this is what really counts,” Foxx told the crowd. He emphasized that many people mistakenly view the Oscars as the ultimate achievement. “A lot of people think like the Oscars is the biggest thing, and we got to quit thinking like that.”
The 25th BET Awards took place at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Foxx’s acceptance speech became one of the evening’s most powerful moments. His words resonated deeply with the audience as he spoke about community and recognition.
Jamie Foxx Reflects on Near-Death Experience and Second Chance at Life
The comedian became visibly emotional while discussing his life-threatening hospital stay from 2023. He suffered a serious medical complication that left him in a coma for weeks. His daughter Corinne Foxx first revealed the health scare to the public in April 2023.
“I cannot even begin to express the love that I feel from everybody out there,” Foxx said during his speech. He admitted feeling overwhelmed when watching the In Memoriam segment. “When I saw the In Memoriam, I was like, man, it could have been me.”
The entertainer acknowledged not fully understanding why he went through such a difficult experience. However, he expressed gratitude for surviving and getting another opportunity. “I don’t know why I went through what I went through, but I know my second chance, I’m not gonna turn down.”
Black Community Support Proves Crucial During Jamie Foxx’s Recovery Journey
Foxx specifically highlighted how the Black community rallied around him during his health crisis. He made sure his first major performance after recovery was in front of a Black audience. The support from his community played a vital role in his healing process.
“Black people were the ones that said, ‘Man, we got you,'” Foxx explained to the crowd. He clarified that while he appreciates prayers from everyone, the Black community’s support felt especially meaningful. “Not to say that white people can’t pray either. I know that sounds weird, but y’all know what I’m saying.”
The actor emphasized how some entertainers forget their roots after achieving success. He wanted to ensure his comeback performance honored those who supported him most. “A lot of times when we get on, we forget about where we come from.”
BET Ultimate Icon Award Holds More Meaning Than Oscar for Jamie Foxx
The Oscar-winning actor made a bold statement about the relative importance of different awards. Despite winning an Academy Award and receiving two nominations, Foxx values the BET recognition more highly. He believes awards from the Black community carry greater significance than mainstream Hollywood honors.
“That’s coming from a person who won an Oscar, I was nominated twice,” Foxx acknowledged. However, he firmly stated that the Icon Award surpasses those achievements. “The Icon Award is the most important award because it comes from us.”
His message challenged conventional thinking about prestige in the entertainment industry. Foxx encouraged others to reconsider which accolades truly matter most. The statement reflected his deep appreciation for recognition from his own community.
Gratitude and Testimony Mark Jamie Foxx’s Powerful BET Awards Speech
The emotional speech served as both acceptance and testimony for Foxx’s remarkable recovery. He felt compelled to share his experience with the audience who supported him. The moment represented more than just receiving an award—it was a celebration of survival.
“You can’t go through something like that and not testify,” Foxx explained about his decision to speak openly. He wanted to acknowledge publicly how the community’s prayers and support helped him heal. The speech became a powerful moment of gratitude and recognition.
Foxx’s words reminded everyone present about the importance of community bonds and mutual support. His recovery story and heartfelt thanks created one of the most memorable moments in BET Awards history. The Ultimate Icon Award ceremony became a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of community love.
