Jamie Foxx is set to address a turbulent chapter in his life with the release of his upcoming Netflix special, What Had Happened Was..., as speculation swirls about past health issues and alleged connections to music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. The 56-year-old actor and comedian has teased fans with promises to tell his story "in my own way," offering a blend of humor, reflection, and revelation.
Promoting the special on Instagram, Foxx expressed gratitude to fans and those who supported him during his recovery. "Cannot say it enough that I am blessed to be able to tell my story in my own way," Foxx wrote. He also praised Atlanta audiences, where he performed the special in early October. "You showed up and showed out... after 18 years of not being on stage, you made it feel like it was just yesterday," he said.
Foxx's special reportedly touches on the health scare that sidelined him in 2023 and its rumored ties to Combs, who is currently embroiled in legal battles involving sex trafficking allegations. During his standup performances, Foxx addressed the rumors head-on, with conflicting interpretations from attendees. Some, like producer Choke No Joke, claimed Foxx seriously implicated Combs, while others, including actor Dennis L.A. White, believed Foxx dismissed the notion.
White recalled Foxx saying something like, "People keep asking me if Diddy was responsible. He was not responsible. If he was, I would've been dead," adding that the actor appeared to distance Combs from the health incident.
The rumors gained traction after Big Homie.CC, a celebrity bodyguard, alleged that Foxx had reported Combs to the FBI, claiming the mogul "poisoned" him. This theory was fueled by Foxx's re-emergence into the public eye shortly after Combs' September arrest. The actor's appearances at events, including a Dallas Cowboys practice, marked his return to the spotlight after months of secrecy.
In an interview, comedian Joe Rogan reacted to the allegations, acknowledging the rumors but cautioning against taking them at face value until the Netflix special is released. "It's possible, that's totally possible, but it's also possible he was explaining why he went to the hospital, and he hasn't talked about it since," Rogan said.
Combs, meanwhile, remains incarcerated at the Metropolitan Detention Center in New York as he awaits trial in May 2025. His third bail request, which proposed a $50 million bond, was denied by Judge Arun Subramanian, citing "compelling evidence" of Combs' alleged propensity for violence. The judge referenced incidents, including a viral video from 2016 showing Combs allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura.
The allegations against Combs include sex trafficking, racketeering, and other charges, with claims that he used his influence to host exploitative parties and engage in non-consensual acts. Combs has consistently denied the allegations, maintaining his innocence in both criminal and civil cases.
Foxx has yet to provide clarity on his health ordeal or its connection, if any, to Combs. However, the actor's Netflix special promises to shed light on his struggles and triumphs. "It was like going to church," Foxx said about filming the show. "We laughed, we had a few tears, but last, but not least, we celebrated life... and second chances."
The special is just one of many projects marking Foxx's comeback. He is set to star alongside Cameron Diaz in the Netflix comedy Back in Action, slated for release in January 2025. For fans eager for answers, What Had Happened Was... premieres on December 10.