Jamie Foxx is no stranger to action-oriented roles, from his time playing Spider-Man villain Electro to more straightforward action flicks like Collateral, Miami Vice and Baby Driver. As it turns out, there was also a period where he also could have put the pedal to the metal in the Fast & Furious franchise. Foxx was being courted for what was going to be a major role, though I’m honestly glad nothing ever came of this.

Before I explain why I feel this way, here’s what you need to know. In the new book Welcome to the Family, where author Barry Hertz explores the history of the Fast & Furious movies, it’s mentioned that an alternate F9 post-credits scene was written “with the hope of featuring Jamie Foxx as a new villain.” This scene never progressed past the ideating stage, and it was just one of several other post-credits scenes that were thought of for the 2021 Fast & Furious movie. As screenwriter Daniel Casey, who wrote the screenplay with director Justin Lin, said (via ScreenRant):

Now, I want to make it clear that me being glad this Jamie Foxx post-credits scene never materialized has nothing to do with his acting ability. The man is an Academy Award and Golden Globe-winning actor, so it’d be foolish for anyone to think he wouldn’t have delivered the goods in several Fast & Furious movies. My issue is that introducing Foxx’s villain character at the end of F9 meant that we likely wouldn’t have gotten Jason Momoa’s Dante Reyes.

Casey and Lin decided to instead have Han Lue show up on Deckard Shaw’s doorstep, revealing to the latter that he actually hadn’t killed the former like he thought he did, as seen retroactively in Tokyo Drift, and then directly in Fast & Furious 6 and Furious 7. That by itself wouldn’t have affected Jamie Foxx’s hypothetical character from being introduced in Fast X. But had this character been the focus of the F9 scene, then there would have been an obligation to use as the main antagonist in Fast X instead of Dante, and I don’t think that would have been a good tradeoff.

Fast X is by no means my favorite Fast & Furious movie, but I did enjoy watching the sociopathic Dante embarking on a mission of revenge against Dominic Toretto and his crew. I’m looking forward to seeing this storyline resolved in Fast & Furious 11, which appears to finally be making progress forward. Jamie Foxx surely would have played a good villain, but I wouldn’t that to come at the expense of Momoa’s character hamming it up and painting the toenails of dead guys.

Since Fast & Furious 11 is set to be the last entry in the main film series, we won’t get to see Jamie Foxx play someone who makes life hell for Dom and his family. However, if the franchise races on with spinoffs, then I’d definitely welcome him antagonizing those protagonists from behind the wheel. Feel free to revisit F9 with your Amazon Prime Video subscription.

Jamie Foxx has been in business with Netflix for sometime now, as he’s starred in several of the streamer’s films and has even produced a comedy special for the company, too. Well, following the success of Back in Action, which hit No. 1 on the platform earlier this year, Foxx has set his next collaboration with the brand. The Oscar winner is set to headline a sports biopic that sounds both tragic and inspirational. Needless to say, after reading the premise for this film, I’m already in my feelings about it.

Cameras are now rolling on the sports drama Fight for ‘84, which is currently in production in New Jersey. According to Deadline, the Jamie Foxx-fronted flick is set in the aftermath of a plane crash that kills the U.S. Olympic Team in 1980. A new coach is then brought in to help reform the squad and, eventually, that group goes on to have a record-setting run at the 1984 Summer Olympics. Now, if that story doesn’t at least make a person a little bit misty-eyed, then I honestly don’t know what will.

The movie is being directed by Andrés Baiz, a Colombian filmmaker who also helmed episodes of Narcos, The Sandman and Griselda, which were hits among Netflix subscription holders. Baiz has also assembled an ensemble cast to join the Collateral star in Fight for ‘84. Among the cast are Malachi Beasley, Shea Whigham, Will Chase, Dan Perrault, Mitchell Edwards, Algee Smith, Tre McBride, Xavier Mills, Al-Shabazz Jabateh and Javier Bolaños. All in all, it appears this will be a mix of up-and-coming stars and seasoned veterans.

Of course, this won’t be the first time that Jamie Foxx will have participated in a sports drama or even a biopic centered around athletics. Foxx famously played the role of quarterback Willie "Steamin" Beamen in Oliver Stone’s 1999 film Any Given Sunday. And, in 2001, Foxx appeared as Drew Bundini Brown in Ali, which was directed by Michael Mann. (I’d argue that Foxx should’ve won an Oscar for his portrayal of Bundini.)

It’s probably a foregone conclusion that Andrés Baiz wants to hit viewers in their feels with his upcoming boxing drama. What I’m curious about is just how raw the filmmaker plans to get when telling this story of tragedy and triumph. Considering the work he did on those previously mentioned TV shows, I wouldn’t be surprised if he crafts a compelling story with strong performances.

From a business perspective, of course, this marks yet another chapter in what’s seemingly been a fruitful partnership between Jamie Foxx and Netflix. The last few years have seen the two parties team up for Back in Action, Day Shift and (the critically acclaimed) They Cloned Tyrone. In 2024, the streamer also released Foxx’s comedy special, What Had Happened Was…, in which debuted to big numbers. It was in that special that Foxx opened up about the medical emergency he experienced in 2023, which he revealed was a brain bleed that led to a stroke.

Foxx is an incredibly multi-faceted actor and, while he’s greatly known for his comedic prowess, he can definitely hold his own in any drama. The Academy Award he won for Ray alone is enough to back up that assertion. As a sports fan and as someone who enjoys Foxx’s work, I look forward to seeing what he delivers in Fight for ‘84. A release window has yet to be announced, but here’s hoping it arrives amid the 2026 movie schedule.

Social media, in the scheme of things, hasn’t existed for that long. Yet with its ever-expanding growth and universal popularity, it has intrinsically woven its way into the fabric of everything. And I mean everything, including its influence on what it means to be a part of Hollywood today. With that sentiment in mind, one of Tinseltown’s best, Jamie Foxx, weighed in on the stark realities of being a celeb presently and how brutal a roasting online can be.

While the A-lister has fully recovered from his 2023 ‘medical complication’ that turned out to be a brain bleed that led to a stroke, he’s made his way back to Hollywood. With a few titles already released on the 2025 movie guide, he chatted with BET’s Immersed series to reflect on his health, career and legacy. When asked if any part of his public life hasn’t been enjoyable, Foxx jumped in with some advantageous advice, especially for present-day standards. Via the YouTube page he shared:

Regardless of the times, it seems like pretty sage words in pursuing something in a fast-paced industry such as entertainment. For anyone with a sizeable platform, all are subject to being sized up under a microscopic lens on the internet. It seems like these realizations may have come in conjunction with Foxx recently returning to stand up.

The Ray star then expounded on how this new stark shade of stardom is a one-eighty from how it was and how everything could be turned upside down by one thing online. (He also mentions that he’ll be covering more of this subject in his upcoming special, Victory Lap, which will eventually be available with a Hulu subscription.) He also noted that he believes in the power of social media but understands that it can upend anything, in his words:

The shift Foxx is referring to is quite an interesting one and seemed to change more dramatically as social media gained traction. The advancement is really a double-edged sword.

Finishing the thought, the Django Unchained alum shared some humorous but humbling parts of posting online. He added that the comment section is the most dangerous place of all for anyone with a large following, as he said:

Yikes. Online communities really take some liberties on stars’ pages (I’m a non-comment section person if I can help it). Hopefully amid the unexpected and outlandish critiques across the internet, there are good moments too. Foxx did get some online love after receiving the BET Ultimate Icon Award by way of LeBron James giving him his virtual flowers.

It’ll be interesting to see if the pitfalls of working in Hollywood will continue to develop alongside the ever-changing social media landscape. Foxx and co. I’m sure would love to see it change if it means no longer getting roasted as regularly.

Monday was a big night for many celebs, as the 25th BET Awards aired on the 2025 TV schedule, with artists like Kendrick Lamar, SZA and Doechii walking away with some of the night’s top honors. One of the highlights, however, was Jamie Foxx’s emotional speech when he received the Ultimate Icon Award and, afterward, he got some love from the king himself — LeBron James.

Jamie Foxx brought his daughters and sister (and several members of the crowd, no doubt) to tears with a hilarious but humbling speech that recalled his near-fatal 2023 stroke. Many in the audience at the Los Angeles awards show were on their feet for the duration of the 10-minute speech. And, if the trophy wasn't enough to validate Foxx’s title as an icon, this X post from one of the NBA’s greatest of all time certainly was, as LeBron James tagged him and wrote:

Jamie Foxx has voiced his respect for LeBron James on many occasions, and while the multihyphenate may boast an Oscar, a Grammy and a Golden Globe amongst his achievements, it’s still got to feel good to get shouted out by a man with four NBA championships. That’s especially true since this BET honor clearly meant so much to him and came at such a huge turning point in his life.

In addition to the Ray star, Mariah Carey, Kirk Franklin and Snoop Dogg also received Ultimate Icon awards, which recognize “decades of groundbreaking contributions to music, entertainment, advocacy, and community impact.” Stevie Wonder presented Jamie Foxx with the honor, and his acceptance speech is worth the watch:

If you managed to remain dry-eyed through that, let's just say I have concerns. Jamie Foxx gave love to his sister and daughters, commending them for how they supported him through his medical issues, and he spoke about how he’s turned his life around to embrace the second chance God gave him. He said:

The tribute to Jamie Foxx also included a musical number featuring artists including Babyface, Ludacris, Doug E. Fresh, Teddy Riley, T-Pain and Jennifer Hudson. Needless to say, the BET Awards went all out to pay tribute to one of the most enduring entertainers of our time.

In 2023 the now-57-year-old actor was hospitalized for an undisclosed medical issue, which was later revealed to be a stroke caused by a brain bleed. He has since recovered, returning to our screens on the 2025 movie calendar in projects like the fittingly titled Back in Action (available to stream with a Netflix subscription).

Comedy is a tricky business, but dozens upon dozens of performers have chosen it and made it work for them. In fact, many fan favorite stand up comedians have found success by turning to their own relatable stories of failure and setbacks for laughs. Now, Jamie Foxx has funnily opened up about telling Eddie Murphy not to return to the stage as a comic.

What Did Jamie Foxx Say About Telling Eddie Murphy Not To Do Stand Up Comedy Anymore?

Obviously, former Saturday Night Live cast member/comedy icon Eddie Murphy and Oscar winner Jamie Foxx are two of the biggest names in comedy, and have been for several decades each. The Ray lead recently joined a group of other stand up stars for one of The Hollywood Reporter’s roundtable discussions, and when the group was asked if they’d ever felt the need to tell more personal stories in their comedy, Foxx responded:

Ah, yes. Something that audiences don’t really see is comedians hitting the stage to joke about how good life is, because…you know, it’s hard to make that funny. A lot of comedy is about processing trauma and dealing with the many negatives of life, whether the comedian talks about personal issues or the world at large. Laughing at the bad (eventually) is what helps many people keep going, even when they know more shitty things will definitely come at some point. If life is good and easy…what are you laughing about?

Foxx recently returned to stand up, after many years of starring in a wide variety of movies like Django Unchained, the Horrible Bosses franchise, Baby Driver, White House Down, Just Mercy, Spider-Man: No Way Home, They Cloned Tyrone, and voicing the lead in Soul. But, he did that after suffering a brain bleed that led to a stroke, which was at first only reported as a mysterious medical condition and caused a lot of fan speculation around his health for a while.

Thus, he had something terrible and scary happen which meant he needed not only serious medical attention, but to find a way through the pain and uncertainty mentally. That gave him something to talk about on stage, which eventually turned into his hit comedy special What Had Happened Was… (which you can watch with your Netflix subscription). Foxx continued:

While I’m certain that Foxx and others don’t wish anything negative on the Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F star just to see him return to stand up, his point about Murphy’s life seeming “too perfect” still stands. At the very least, if he’d like to return to the days of his R-rated stage routines, he’s going to have to dig deep and find something uncomfortable to talk about. And, I bet that the notably funny man will be able to do that whenever he wants.

Jamie Foxx has been feeling all the love and he continues to slide back into his work in the aftermath of his health issues. In 2023, the now- 57-year-old Foxx was hospitalized for a then-undisclosed medical issue, which was later revealed to be a stroke caused by a brain bleed. Thankfully, the actor and comedian has since recovered, and he jokes about the scary situation. Fox just shared further recollections of drugged up on pain medication in the hospital and reading conspiracy theories about his health, with some even involving P. Diddy.

When talking about his medical situation, the Back in Action star has been open about his need to remain funny during that crisis. He even recalled messing with the staff by telling jokes and even impersonating Denzel Washington. There were, however, times, at which Jamie Foxx really was out of it, as he explained during a roundtable for THR. It was also during that time that he sought to find out what “the outside world” was saying about his situation:

For some time now, there have been rumors that Puff Daddy (or Sean Combs) has used his influence to harm people. In regard to the claims regarding the Ray star, those actually predate the current legal issues that Combs is currently facing. Nevertheless, it sounds like some fans were convinced that the Sean John founder was involved in Jamie Foxx’s illness. Of course, as seen above, Foxx shut down that assumption, though, months ago, he did joke about Diddy possibly being involved in some way.

There has been something of a little Foxx/Diddy saga that’s persisted in recent months, though. In addition to the aforementioned barb Foxx shared about the Grammy-winning rapper, it was rumored that Diddy’s arrest was linked to Foxx’s medical problems. Someone claimed that during a show, Foxx confirmed he called the feds on Diddy, though other people in attendance have denied that account. Believe it or not, the Diddy drama isn’t even the wildest theory linked to Foxx’s health situation, as the comic shared another trippy one:

I honestly can’t even imagine being in his position, as the notion of being doped up on medication and reading conspiracy theories about one’s self seems wild. What I’d conclude from this is that strong medication and rumor-fueled Internet conspiracy theories just don’t mix. Luckily, though, the comic is back on the scene and seemingly feeling like himself again. Given his upbeat attitude, I wouldn’t be surprised if he continues to joke about his hospital stay and even throws in the occasional Diddy or baby oil barb as well.

Check out Jamie Foxx’s latest comedy special, What Had Happened Was…, which is now streamable with a Netflix subscription.

Jeremy Renner’s snowplow incident garnered a considerable amount of attention back in 2023, as many feared for the fan-favorite actor’s well-being. At the time, he was run over by his 14,000 lb. snowcat while trying to save his nephew from being hit. Renner was subsequently airlifted to a nearby hospital, where it was ruled that he’d broken various bones and experienced blunt chest trauma. Due to his injuries, the actor was put on pain medication and, as a result, he began to hallucinate about Jamie Foxx and more

It’s true that strong doses of medication can indeed make a person a bit loopy. However, it sounds like Renner was on a whole different level in the aftermath of his accident. In his memoir, My Next Breath, he detailed (via Us Weekly) his recollection of being “so high” on his meds while in the hospital. As Renner explained that he specifically took a “combination of opioids for pain and benzos for sleep.” The now-54-year-old Oscar nominee then began “chatting” with his curtains before having a vision of the Ray actor:

That certainly sounds like an odd experience but, as wild as it may seem, it’s actually natural. It’s hard to say how any of us would actually act under the influence of so many drugs. Unsurprisingly, the A-lister’s family members were present when he was talking to his “buddies.” He went on to say that his loved ones had varied responses in regard to his musings and the amount of medication he was on at the time:

Honestly, it’s amazing that Jeremy Renner didn’t lose his life due to that snowplow accident over two years ago. In his memoir, he recalled hearing “crunching sounds” as the snowplow made its way over his body. Amid his recovery, Renner also opened up about the highs and lows he experienced. Even though it wasn’t always easy, the actor persevered, and he kept his sense of humor as noted by Avengers co-star Anthony Mackie.

It’s tragically ironic that later in 2023, Jamie Foxx suffered a medical emergency. As he later revealed, he had a brain bleed that led to a stroke. After waking up from his stroke, Foxx was apparently a bit disillusioned about what happened. He ultimately began to process his situation using humor and even impersonated Denzel Washington at one point.

As for Jeremy Renner, he was eventually able to kick his meds and was glad to do so because he “hated” the way they made him feel. His decision to discard the medication allowed him to take a major step towards a sense of normalcy. Overall, I’m just glad Renner is seemingly feeling like himself again and that Jamie Foxx is as well.

The next time you watch a comedy movie, see if you can picture the star engaging in fisticuffs with a criminal and taking down their henchpeople in a shootout. You never know: they could be Hollywood’s next great action hero.

It may seem unlikely until you realize that many of the best action movies and TV shows of all time have been led by or featured pivotal roles played by stand-up comedians or actors who broke through in funny flicks or even classic TV sitcoms. See for yourself by taking a look at some comedically talented actors who beat the odds by becoming action stars.

Will Smith

After initially coming to prominence as a rap artist, Academy Award winner Will Smith proved he had a charismatic onscreen presence as the star of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air cast in the early 1990s. In 1995, he was cast in director Michael Bay's buddy cop movie, Bad Boys, and, the following year, led Roland Emmerich's action-packed alien invasion flick, Independence Day. There would soon be so much more where those came from.

Cheech Marin

Along with his partner, Tommy Chong, Cheech Marin essentially became the face of stoner comedy, especially after co-leading the classic '70s movie, Up in Smoke. His career would take a turn when he appeared in 1995's Desperado, leading him to become a staple of Robert Rodriguez's movies, and, eventually, began portraying a type of character his roles from the Cheech & Chong movies would try to avoid alongside Don Johnson in the hit cop show, Nash Bridges.

Chris Pratt

By channeling much of the same comedic energy from his scene-stealing breakout role in the Parks and Recreation cast as Andy Dwyer, Chris Pratt helped make 2014's sci-fi odyssey, Guardians of the Galaxy, a light breath of fresh air into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. His fun, heartfelt performance as Peter "Star-Lord" Quill also convinced Hollywood he was leading man material, opening the door for him to star in the Jurassic World movies and Amazon Prime's The Terminal List, to name a few.

Paul Rudd

Paul Rudd made his major motion picture debut in the hilarious high school movie classic Clueless before later hit comedies like Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, The 40-Year-Old Virgin, and Knocked Up made him one of Hollywood's most sought-after actors in the genre. He found the perfect role to become inducted into the MCU in the form of Ant-Man, playing the shrinking superhero with the same everyman quality that made him an A-lister.

Michael Keaton

Because Michael Keaton got his start in stand-up comedy and had been best known for movies like Night Shift and Mr. Mom at the time, comic book fans were up in arms over Tim Burton's decision to cast him in his live-action Batman movies, Batman and Batman Returns. The Oscar nominee has since been regarded as one of the best actors to play the Dark Knight (if not the best) and would even return to superhero movies as one of the best Spider-Man movie villains, Vulture, in 2017's Spider-Man: Homecoming.

Nicolas Cage

It is easy to forget that Nicolas Cage started out in comedies like Valley Girl and Peggy Sue Got Married before blowing us away in high-octane thrillers like Con Air, Face/Off, and Gone in 60 Seconds. Then again, it is also easy to tell that the Oscar winner has a comedy background from some of his action movie credits, including the three listed above and his even Cagier roles, like from Mandy and Willy's Wonderland.

Damon Wayans

You may have forgotten he was on Saturday Night Live, but you should surely remember Damon Wayans from his days on the In Living Color cast and from sitcoms like My Wife and Kids. Hopefully, you did not also forget about his roles in '90s crime thrillers The Last Boy Scout (opposite Bruce Willis) and Bulletproof (opposite Adam Sandler) or when he took over as Roger Murtaugh for Fox's series adaptation of Lethal Weapon.

Robert Downey Jr.

After lasting one season on Saturday Night Live, appearing in several '80s teen comedies like Weird Science, and earning his first Oscar nod for playing Charlie Chaplin, Robert Downey Jr.'s career would hit a snag in the early 2000s. Luckily, he would make an inspiring comeback after leading the 2005 noir thriller Kiss Kiss Bang Bang before kicking off the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the title role of Iron Man and playing Guy Ritchie's version of Sherlock Holmes.

Eddie Murphy

Many credit Eddie Murphy with single-handedly saving Saturday Night Live in the early 1980s, right before making his feature debut alongside Nick Nolte in Walter Hill's 1982 buddy crime thriller, 48 Hrs. Just two years later, the comedian led his own acclaimed action-comedy movie called Beverly Hills Cop, which made him Hollywood's biggest star.

Bruce Willis

In the mid-to-late 1980s, Bruce Willis was best known for playing David Addison on Moonlighting, starring opposite Kim Basinger in Blind Date, and appearing in commercials for Seagram, which is why audiences initially laughed when they saw him as John McClane in the trailer for Die Hard. However, the 1988 action classic would immediately skyrocket the actor to stardom and turn him into a top Hollywood action star, later known for leading thrillers like The Fifth Element, Armageddon, and Sin City.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx's stand-up career led him to join the In Living Color cast and lead his own self-titled sitcom before his Oscar-winning performance in the 2004 music biopic, Ray, and Oscar-nominated performance in Collateral the same year opened wider doors for him. He went on to star in more thrillers like Jarhead, The Kingdom, Quentin Tarantino's Django Unchained, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 as Electro, and White House Down.

Alan Ritchson

One of Alan Ritchson's first major acting credits was playing doltish college football player Thad Castle on the uproarious sitcom Blue Mountain State before landing a small role in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, doing performance capture for the 2014 and 2017 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies, and playing Hank "Hawk" Hall on Titans. The 6'3" actor's defining, star-making turn came when he was cast in the title role of the hit Amazon Prime TV show, Reacher, leading to his casting in Guy Ritchie's The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare.

Lucy Liu

Lucy Liu landed her breakthrough role on the hit workplace dramedy Ally McBeal as Ling Woo. Soon after, she achieved cinematic stardom in 2000's Charlie's Angels, teamed up with Antonio Banderas in the 2002 spy thriller Ballistic: Ecks vs. Sever, and was cast as ruthless assassin O-Ren Ishii in Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill.

Bob Odenkirk

Bob Odenkirk wrote for Saturday Night Live for years in the 1980s before co-leading his own acclaimed sketch comedy series with David Cross called Mr. Show, which was his main claim to fame for years. However, he stumbled onto a new career path when he joined the Breaking Bad cast as Saul Goodman, who earned his own prequel spin-off called Better Call Saul, before leading his own action flick called Nobody.

Martin Lawrence

Martin Lawrence led a successful stand-up career that turned into a successful TV career with his hit sitcom, Martin, in between starring in movies like Do the Right Thing and Boomerang. In 1995, he played Det. Marcus Burnett, for the first of multiple times in Bad Boys and even went on to play a cop in a few more overt comedies, namely Blue Streak and Big Momma's House.

Ryan Reynolds

For years, even after starring in more earnest thrillers like Smokin' Aces and Safe House, it seemed like Ryan Reynolds' defining performance would forever be the title role of National Lampoon's Van Wilder, which paved the way for him to star in more raunchy comedies like Waiting... or Just Friends. However, that would change in 2016 when he led Deadpool, which is still very much on the side of silly but is also as action-packed as any other comic book movie.

Sam Richardson

Sam Richardson quickly became a favorite in the comedy landscape for his hilarious performances in shows like I Think You Should Leave, Veep, and Ted Lasso. He would later go on to impress audiences in Amazon Prime's action-packed time travel movie The Tomorrow War opposite Chris Pratt, as the lead of the 2021 horror-comedy movie Werewolves Within, and in Paramount+'s Star Trek: Section 31.

Keanu Reeves

As the star of franchises like the John Wick movies and the Matrix films, in addition to favorites like Speed and Point Break, Keanu Reeves is one of the most prolific action stars in cinema history. Thus, it is sometimes hard to believe that he is the same actor who, excellently, played one-half of the titular duo from the Bill & Ted movies.

John Goodman

John Goodman began rising to prominence on the groundbreaking sitcom Roseanne as Dan Conner (whom he would reprise in the revival series The Conners). However, he has managed to cover just about every genre you can think of throughout his career, including action films like Kong: Skull Island and Atomic Blonde.

Emily Blunt

It might seem like a stretch to call Emily Blunt a comedy star, but she did find her breakthrough film role with a hilarious scene-stealing performance in 2006's The Devil Wears Prada. She would later prove she could play someone with a rougher exterior when she starred opposite Tom Cruise in the thrilling time loop movie, Edge of Tomorrow, and in Denis Villeneuve's stunning Sicario.

Rick Moranis

Rick Moranis is one of the most treasured comedic actors of his time, from his days at SCTV starring alongside Dave Thomas as the McKenzie Brothers (who led their own 1983 movie, Strange Brew), to appearing in films like Ghostbusters, Little Shop of Horrors, and Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. In the middle of those comedy classics was a role in Walter Hill's dystopian "Rock 'n Roll fable," Streets of Fire.

Bill Burr

Bill Burr used to mock the Star Wars movies in some of his stand-up bits, which gave The Mandalorian creator Jon Favreau a funny idea to bring him into the galaxy far, far away. He cast the Massachusetts-born comedian on the series as a mercenary named Migs Mayfield, which Burr has since recognized as one of the highlights of his career.

John Leguizamo

Despite getting his start as a stand-up comedian, many of John Leguizamo's earliest acting roles have actually been in action movies, including Die Hard 2 and Executive Decision. In addition to more humorous credits, like To Wong Foo, Thanks For Everything, Julie Newmar and the Ice Age movies, more thrillers would come his way, such as the John Wick movies and Violent Night.

Owen Wilson

Owen Wilson may be closely associated with comedies like Bottle Rocket, Meet the Parents, and Zoolander, but the actor has diversified his talents over various styles. He has even tried his hand at the action genre a few times, most notably in Behind Enemy Lines, No Escape, and Disney+'s MCU-canon series, Loki

Tom Hanks

Tom Hanks' first major show business breakthrough was a sitcom called Bosom Buddies, which led to roles in comedy films like Bachelor Party and Turner & Hooch. It was his Oscar-winning roles in Philadelphia and Forrest Gump that opened the door for him to star in intense dramas like the acclaimed war movie Saving Private Ryan and the sci-fi epic Cloud Atlas.

Val Kilmer

Some of Val Kilmer's most iconic roles include Iceman in Top Gun, Doc Holliday in the Western movie classic Tombstone, and the title role of Batman Forever. However, his breakthrough films were the ridiculous spy parody, Top Secret!, and the college comedy, Real Genius, in the early-to-mid 1980s.

Mila Kunis

Mila Kunis rose to fame as Jackie Burkhart in the That '70s Show cast and as the voice of Meg on Family Guy before acquiring A-list fame. Her action movie credits, namely the video game movie adaptation Max Payne and the Wachowski's ambitious sci-fi adventure, Jupiter Ascending, have not been her most esteemed efforts, but we will still count them.

Randall Park

Randall Park is best known for leading the sitcom Fresh off the Boat, his hilarious cameo on The Office as "Asian Jim Halpert," and for hit comedy movies like The Interview and Neighbors. He has also become a staple of the comic book movie genre with his role in the MCU as Agent Jimmy Woo and as Dr. Shin in the Aquaman movies.

Shia LaBeouf

Shia LaBeouf started making a name for himself when he was a teen as Louis on the Disney Channel original comedy series, Even Stevens. He went on to make a Hollywood breakthrough in the Transformers movies, which led to his roles in Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull and, eventually, David Ayer's 2014 war drama, Fury.

Malin Akerman

Before she became the first actor to play Silk Spectre II in live-action in 2009's Watchmen, Malin Akerman rose to fame in comedy movies like 2007's The Heartbreak Kid and shows like Children's Hospital.

Jim Belushi

Just like his late older brother, John, Jim Belushi broke out on Saturday Night Live. Unlike John, Jim achieved a brief career in action movies, such as Red Heat with Arnold Schwarzenegger, The Principal, and Oliver Stone's Salvador.

Ernest Borgnine

Ernest Borgnine was already an Oscar-winning movie star when he was cast as the lead of the hit sitcom, McHale's Navy. Eventually, he would appear in more earnest action-oriented titles, such as a made-for-TV adaptation of All Quiet on the Western Front, John Carpenter's Escape from New York, and 2010's RED.

Jamie Foxx has already made a splash this year, as his latest film, Netflix’s Back in Action, made a serious impression upon its debut on the 2025 movie schedule. The action comedy shot to No. 1 on the streamer during its first weekend, and viewers buzzed about it on social media. Foxx seems incredibly grateful for the film’s success and has been letting fans know that. Now, the A-lister is reaching out to his admirers again as the film continues to find success on the platform.

Upon its release in January, the Seth Gordon-directed film managed to score the biggest debut on the aforementioned streaming service since 2022. It specifically raked in 46.8 million views and, by early February, it had been the service’s most-watched title for three consecutive weeks, putting it atop the Nielsen charts. Jamie Foxx previously expressed gratitude via an Instagram post. Ever the social media savvy star, he returned to the platform to post a video and share the following remarks:

Over the years, the Oscar-winning actor has never been one to shy away from thanking fans for their support. In early 2021, he thanked his social media followers for helping to make his Pixar film, Soul, a hit over the holidays. The Day Shift star also expressed gratitude when opening up about the medical situation he faced in April 2023, which was later revealed to be a stroke. In this latest video post, the beloved comedian also shouted out those who checked out his 2024 comedy special, What Had Happened Was… Check out the post:

Keeping in mind the situation that Jamie Foxx went through nearly two years ago, it’s very understandable as to why he’s so thankful. For a while, there was a lot of uncertainty surrounding his condition. Foxx has since opened up about his hospital stint, during which he attempted to generate humor in order to cope with his circumstances. The fact that the star pulled through and is currently enjoying both his professional and personal lives is nothing short of a blessing.

So the title of Back in Action, which the leading man was filming when he fell ill, proved to be a fitting title due to his personal circumstances. Of course, he wasn’t the only one getting back into the saddle, as the film also brought Cameron Diaz out of retirement. The Ray star was actually one of the driving forces behind her deciding to join the production. And, ahead of the film’s release, fans were stoked about Diaz’s return. Her presence was arguably a major selling point for the flick.

I suppose that the big question that remains is whether Back in Action will receive a sequel. As of this writing, Netflix has yet to announce anything but, given the movie’s success (and the fact that it sets the table for a follow-up), I wouldn’t be surprised if a second installment were to be made. For now, here’s hoping Jamie Foxx continues to soak up the love and, if you haven’t seen his latest film, check it out using a Netflix subscription.

Jamie Foxx has always been vocal about his admiration for trailblazers, and this time, he’s using Black History Month to shine a light on one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in NFL history—Michael Vick. The Oscar-winning actor, known for his wide-ranging roles in film, TV, and music, recently took to social media to reflect on what the former Atlanta Falcon QB’s impact meant to him and why representation in sports matters. And in true Foxx fashion, he tied it all back to his legendary sports culture-changing role of Willie “Steamin” Beamen from Any Given Sunday.

Taking to Instagram, the Soul voice performer shared an image of himself standing next to Vick from 2023, each holding up each other’s jerseys—Vick with Beamen’s No. 13 from the 1999 sports drama and the Back in Action star with the iconic No. 7 Atlanta Falcons jersey. The Hollywood A-lister captioned his post, opening up about why Vick was such an important figure for him growing up, emphasizing how seeing a Black quarterback succeed in the NFL was inspiring.

Foxx’s connection to football runs deeper than just fandom. His portrayal of quarterback Willie Beamen in Oliver Stone’s Any Given Sunday, maybe not one of the best sports movies, still became one of his most iconic roles, depicting a young, flashy, and unconventional player who disrupts the league’s old-school system. In many ways, Beamen’s rise in the film mirrored what Vick did in real life—bringing a dynamic, never-before-seen style to the quarterback position and proving that Black QBs could dominate in the NFL.

Vick’s impact on the game is undeniable, and the Collateral star made it clear just how much he respects the former quarterback’s influence. In his Instagram caption, he wrote:

The Dreamgirls alum’s tribute not only honors the former NFL star’s legacy but also emphasizes the importance of representation in sports. Seeing someone who looks like you succeed can be a powerful motivator, and Vick’s journey helped pave the way for the next generation of dual-threat quarterbacks, including stars like Lamar Jackson and Patrick Mahomes.

For those interested in diving deeper into this topic or are just curious what to watch during Black History Month, a three-part docuseries, Evolution of the Black Quarterback, dropped on one of the best streaming services and is now available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription. Featuring Foxx himself, the documentary follows Vick as he explores the history of Black quarterbacks, reflecting on their struggles, celebrating their achievements, and discussing the future of the position with some of the game’s most influential figures.

Jamie Foxx’s post isn’t just a moment of nostalgia—it’s a reminder of the power of representation. Seeing someone who looks like you achieve greatness can be a game-changer, whether in Hollywood, sports, or beyond. As he continues celebrating Black excellence this month, the Django Unchained actor is making it clear that moments like these matter.

Every year, I try to honor Black History by writing about something important that has occurred in the entertainment industry. And, I can’t think of any greater honor than winning the Academy Award.

Yes, there have been achievements in many different categories, including directing, writing, producing, scoring, etc, but today, my focus is going to be on Black actors.

Split amongst the Best Lead Actor, Best Lead Actress, Best Supporting Actress, and Best Supporting Actor categories, there have been a total of 23 Oscars doled out to Black performers. So, here are all 23 of them, chronologically ordered.

Hattie McDaniel - Gone With The Wind (1939)

The very first Black winner for an acting Academy Award, Hattie McDaniel won it for Best Supporting Actress with her portrayal of Mammy in Gone With the Wind.

And, even though it's a racial stereotype role, McDaniel's character was often the most sensible and attention-grabbing character on the screen. It's a landmark victory for Black people in cinema.

Sidney Poitier - Lilies Of The Field (1963)

One of Sidney Poitier’s best movies, Lilies of the Field, which is about a handyman who helps a group of nuns build a chapel, was actually Poitier’s second nomination for Best Lead Actor.

His first was for 1958’s The Defiant Ones, which was a movie that he mostly shared with Tony Curtis. Lilies of the Field, however, was a leading role purely for Poitier, and he ended up becoming the first Black Actor to ever win the award. Great stuff!

Louis Gossett Jr. - An Officer And A Gentleman (1982)

In this romantic drama that also stars Richard Gere, Louis Gossett Jr. plays a hard-nosed drill instructor who really challenges his cadets.

Before there was R. Lee Ermey in one of my favorite Kubrick films, Full Metal Jacket, there was Louis Gossett Jr. berating his troops. He was the first Black man to win a Best Supporting Acting trophy, and it was justly awarded. He’s really good in this.

Denzel Washington - Glory (1989)

Denzel Washington’s first Academy Award was a supporting one for his role as a private in the Civil War drama, Glory.

As both a leader to the men in his regiment, but also a soldier who must follow orders, Washington’s character shows the duality of a Black man in uniform. Him deciding to hold up the flag for the charge is one of the most iconic scenes in late ‘80s cinema.

Whoopi Goldberg - Ghost (1990)

An EGOT recipient (though, not the only one on this list), Whoopi Goldberg received a Best Supporting Actress Award for her role as the medium, Oda Mae Brown, in the hit Ghost.

The romance between Swayze and Moore’s character is what defines this film, but it wouldn’t be nearly as enjoyable without Goldberg’s humor, and seriousness when the moment calls for it.

Cuba Gooding Jr. - Jerry Maguire (1996)

For this sports comedy-drama, Cuba Gooding Jr. received a Best Supporting Actor award for his role as a cocky but steadfast wide receiver who wants to be shown the money.

Gooding Jr.’s performance is full of energy, and it makes this romantic comedy feel even sweeter when his and Tom Cruise’s characters share more than just a player and client relationship and actually become good friends.

Halle Berry - Monster's Ball (2001)

The only Black woman who has ever won Best Lead Actress, Halle Berry, took home the trophy for her role as a conflicted woman who takes on a relationship with the man who helped execute her husband.

Berry’s character is highly vulnerable, and the events of the movie are stressful beyond belief. Still, her character, as flawed as she is (everybody’s flawed in this film) weathered the storm, and earned Berry a Best Actress statue for her troubles.

Denzel Washington - Training Day (2001)

Washington’s second trophy came as the Best Lead Actor, for playing a cop in Training Day who definitely didn’t follow the rules.

Washington’s character was both charming and terrifying, often in the same scene. Say it with me, people: King Kong ain't got nothing on him!

Morgan Freeman - Million Dollar Baby (2004)

Morgan Freeman actually had a supporting role in two of Clint Eastwood’s best movies, those being Unforgiven, and Million Dollar Baby. And, both films won Best Picture.

However, it was in the latter film where Freeman picked up the Best Supporting Actor statue, for playing a grizzled former boxer and gym assistant. It’s a mostly quiet role, but a memorable one.

Jamie Foxx - Ray (2004)

In one of the best music movies of all time, Jamie Foxx scored a much deserved Best Lead Actor award for his role as the famous blind musician, Ray Charles.

Foxx even had his eyes glued shut for the sake of authenticity. Anything for the craft, right?

Jennifer Hudson - Dreamgirls (2006)

Another EGOT recipient on this list, Jennifer Hudson, scored a Best Supporting Actress trophy in her VERY FIRST ACTING GIG!

It’s little wonder why though. Hudson’s portrayal of Effie White in Dreamgirls is powerful. Going from lead singer to starting all over again, Hudson did a “Supreme” job (Do you see what I did there?) in her very first role.

Forest Whitaker - The Last King of Scotland (2006)

Forest Whitaker’s best performance is by far his role as Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland.

In a role that netted him a Best Lead Actor award, Whitaker is utterly terrifying, but also somewhat funny, in the way that only Whitaker can be.

Mo'Nique - Precious (2009)

After watching Mo’Nique as the abusive mother in Precious, it’s hard to watch her again in one of the best Black TV shows, The Parkers. It just seems like such a smoke screen.

Anyway, Mo’Nique was awarded a Best Supporting Actress trophy for this performance, and I haven’t looked at her the same way since.

Octavia Spencer - The Help (2011)

Though The Help hasn’t aged well, Octavia Spencer’s role as a maid who was fired for using a guest bathroom is still one of her best performances.

Spencer won Best Supporting Actress for a role where she got to take a dump in somebody’s pie. It’s a feel good film.

Lupita Nyong'o - 12 Years a Slave (2013)

In her career-defining role in 12 Years a Slave, Lupita Nyong'o plays a violently abused slave.

It is one of the most brutal (and likely most realistic) portrayals of slavery ever put to screen, and Nyong'o won a Best Supporting Actress Award for her performance.

Viola Davis - Fences (2016)

In this adaptation of a play in August Wilson’s Pittsburgh Cycle, Viola Davis plays a wronged but loyal wife.

The third EGOT recipient on this list, Davis should have several Oscars, but this is her sole win, and it’s in the Best Supporting Actress category.

Mahershala Ali - Moonlight (2016)

Though only in Moonlight for one act, Mahershala Ali’s performance as a caring drug dealer was so powerful that he won the Best Supporting Actor trophy.

It would be his first of two Academy Awards so far.

Regina King - If Beale Street Could Talk (2018)

In If Beale Street Could Talk, Regina King plays the mother of a young woman whose boyfriend has been convicted of rape, and she tries to convince the victim that it wasn’t him.

King won a Best Supporting Actress Award for her quiet, but searing performance.

Mahershala Ali - Green Book (2018)

In Ali’s second Best Supporting Actor win, the skilled performer played real-life pianist Don Shirley in this Best Picture winner.

Ali’s character in this film is completely different from that in Moonlight, but that sense of vulnerability still persists, which was worthy of the award.

Daniel Kaluuya - Judas And The Black Messiah (2020)

Playing the “Black Messiah,” Daniel Kaluuya portrayed the inspirational Fred Hampton in this riveting biopic.

He won Best Supporting Actor, beating out the “Judas” (Bill O’Neal) in this picture, played excellently by LaKeith Stanfield, who was also nominated.

Ariana DeBose - West Side Story (2021)

In this second adaptation of the famed musical West Side Story, Ariana DeBose won Best Supporting Actress playing Anita, who was portrayed by Rita Moreno in the first theatrical adaptation.

DeBose is absolutely magnetic in the role, firmly earning her win.

Will Smith - King Richard (2021)

Though the unfortunate slap is likely what many people remember most about this ceremony and Will Smith's award, his Best Lead Actor-winning turn really does deserve a second look.

Playing the tenacious father to Venus and Serena Williams, Smith definitely deserved the award for his work in the lauded film.

Da'Vine Joy Randolph - The Holdovers (2023)

And finally, the most recent winner, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, won Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of a quietly grieving mother in The Holdovers.

This film speaks to me as a teacher, yes, but also as a parent. I can thankfully only imagine the pain that her character Is going through.

That’s all of them! We’ll see if Zoe Saldaña, Colman Domingo, or Cynthia Erivo pick up a trophy at the 2025 Academy Awards.

The 2025 movie schedule ushered in the return of Cameron Diaz, who came out of retirement to star in Netflix’s Back in Action alongside Jamie Foxx. So far, the film has trended high amongst other titles on the streamer, and a number of fans have been pumped about Diaz’s return. At one point, though, it seemed that it might not be a possibility. Director Seth Gordon just revealed that he was told to not “even think” about reaching out to Diaz. Yet “extraordinary timing” and Foxx helped make it all happen.

As someone who’s not in the entertainment business, I’d imagine it would be challenging to land a major star for some sort of production. So the thought of trying to convince a beloved Hollywood actor like Cameron Diaz to get back in the saddle for a new film seems daunting. Seth Gordon recently recalled that stage of the development process and, while he was warned against trying to pursue the Mask icon, Jamie Foxx provided him with an in. Let’s just say, it’s all about who you know, in this case:

To be totally honest, I can understand why the Four Christmases helmer was discouraged from seeking out Cameron Diaz for the co-leading role of his latest film. Before she joined the Netflix original, her last feature film credit was 2014’s Annie remake, on which she also worked with Jamie Foxx. It’s truly wonderful when things work out in an organic way. Seth Gordon seems to be quite thankful for the They Cloned Tyrone star’s assist, based on the latter comments the filmmaker shared with THR:

Back in 2022, it was reported that Cameron Diaz’s unretirement actually wasn’t her idea, as it was her husband, Good Charlotte’s Benji Madden, who encouraged her to take the leap. Diaz explained her decision while doing press for her comeback movie, admitting that her co-star and on-screen spouse’s enthusiasm helped move the needle. That definitely falls in line with the account shared by their director. It would also seem that the actress was well compensated, as Diaz was reportedly paid $45 million to star in two films.

Considering that the movie hit No. 1 on Netflix relatively quickly, now there’s the question of what lies ahead. Back in Action’s ending sets up a sequel and, as mentioned, Cameron Diaz did sign a two-picture contract. So it’s possible that she could be down for more. We’ll have to wait and see but, for now, fans should just be grateful that the stars aligned for Diaz to work with Jamie Foxx and Seth Gordon this time around.

You can stream Back in Action now using a Netflix subscription.

I’m always shocked when I learn that a very famous celebrity does not go by their real name. For example, when I found out Michael Keaton’s real name is Michael Douglas, Nicolas Cage's is Nicolas Kim Coppola and Martin Sheen's is Ramon Gerard Estevez, among others, my mind was blown. Now, I’m facing this situation again, because I just learned that Jamie Foxx’s real name is not Jamie Foxx, and the story behind why is truly wild.

While promoting his project on Netflix’s 2025 schedule, Back In Action, Foxx and his co-star Cameron Diaz were doing trivia, and the Oscar winner was asked about his real name, which is Eric Bishop. It even seemed like Diaz – who has been friends with Foxx for over two decades – didn’t know his real name, which is kind of wild. So, just like me, she was very entertained by the story behind why he developed a stage name, as Foxx, or should I say, Bishop, explained to Variety:

These days, Jamie Foxx is known for his performances in films like Django Unchained, Ray and more. However, his career started decades ago with stand-up comedy – which he recently returned to. So, back in the ‘80s, the comedian was making the rounds and playing comedy clubs, trying to make an impact and get his break.

However, he realized they weren’t calling his name to go up and perform. So, he figured out the solution, and that’s ultimately how he came up with “Jamie Foxx:”

Talk about clever!

It worked too, Foxx said he went up to the stage and killed it. After that, he started using his stage name full-time:

Now, I think it makes sense that I’ve never noticed this before. First of all, Jamie Foxx feels like a pretty normal name, so I didn’t think twice about it. Also, the Baby Driver actor’s daughter, Corinne uses the last name Foxx. So, I just assumed it was his legal name. However, it’s not, his name is Eric Bishop.

I must admit though, this only makes Jamie Foxx’s career even better because this clever switch of his name got him noticed, and look at everything he's done since then. Plus, now we all have a new fun fact to share about this great actor.

So, now, if you are looking to see Eric Bishop’s work, give Jamie Foxx a search and make sure to check out both Foxx’s stand-up special and his film Back In Action with a Netflix subscription.

Back In Action is a family-friendly and fun action movie that should appeal to a massive number of folks with a Netflix subscription. Starring Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz, the film follows two spies as they get back into their jobs after taking over a decade off to raise their kids. Overall, the film is action-packed and hilarious – as you’d expect with people like Foxx and Diaz leading it. However, there was a running joke about baby oil that did surprise me considering everything that’s going on with Diddy right now. However, the director has clarified why the bit ended up in the film.

So, here’s how this baby oil bit began, in the movie that helped kick off Netflix’s 2025 schedule, toward the beginning, Diaz and Foxx’s characters Emily and Matt are talking about whether they should bring back “Monday Movie Nights With Mom” as a way for Emily to reconnect with their daughter Alice. Diaz’s character then recommends the Creed movies while talking all this out. In response, Foxx’s Matt says:

Then, later in the movie, like scenes later, movie night comes up again. Alice rejects the idea, so Foxx’s character suggests that he and his wife just have a movie night instead. Diaz’s Emily follows that up by saying they could watch Creed 3, in response, Matt says:

According to Seth Gordon, who directed the movie, those lines were the Oscar winner’s idea. They weren’t scripted, they were ad-libbed, as the director told Business Insider:

Now, as mentioned earlier, these jokes don’t hit the same today because of the ongoing legal issues surrounding Diddy and his arrest last fall. Specifically, at one point, a report came out about his parties that claimed there were more than 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant found. So, yes, I was surprised when I heard the Back in Action joke considering how controversial and troubling Diddy and his parties have been.

According to Gordon, they didn’t talk about removing the jokes. He also explained that they shot the Netflix movie well before all the news about Diddy came out, and they didn’t think they needed to remove the joke because of it:

Notably, Back in Action makes no direct reference to Diddy. However, the joke was still surprising and it’s hard not to draw the connection. It was especially shocking considering the wild rumors that circulated last fall that were trying to make connections between Diddy’s arrest and Jamie Foxx’s medical issue and the joke Foxx made in his stand-up about the rapper. However, Gordon very clearly clarified that the bit in his action movie has no connection to the ongoing and controversial situation surrounding Combs as it was made before any of that happened.

Now, if you are looking to see Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz Back in Action, you can stream the film on Netflix.

Spoilers below for anyone who hasn't yet streamed the new feature Back in Action with a Netflix subscription, so be warned!

Even without all of the delays that impacted the eventual release of Back in Action, from Jamie Foxx’s sudden hospitalization in April 2023 to the Hollywood strikes and beyond, fans were still pumped about seeing the actor sharing the screen anew with his Any Given Sunday co-star Cameron Diaz in her return to acting. (Netflix reportedly paid her a king’s sum to come out of retirement.) And yet after watching it myself, I was rather surprised that the best thing about Back in Action isn’t either of its high-profile stars.

The action-comedy’s core plot also wasn’t the most logical or engaging on the whole, which is a point that many critics raised in disapproval, but I truly think the key element saving the film from becoming the first forgettable blockbuster of the 2025 movie schedule is the presence of BAFTA-winning comedian Jamie Demetriou. Few in the biz can instantly add 20-30% more quirky and comedic heft to a project like Demetriou can, regardless of where he slots on the call sheet.

Jamie Demetriou Steals Every Back In Action Scene He's In

From the moment he's introduced, Demetriou's wannabe MI6 agent Nigel is immediately the odd duck, and not only because he's is romantically involved with a woman 40 years his elder, Glenn Close's former sniper Ginny. (He's her "special little project," with much ick attached.) Despite all the pent-up friction between Diaz's Emily and her estranged mother, Nigel is eager to please.

After formally meeting Emily and Matt, whose handsomeness he definitely noticed, Nigel delivers one of the movie's funniest moments when talking to McKenna Roberts' Alice and Rylan Jackson's Leo:

Which Nigel then follows by breathlessly saying that he doesn't necessarily want to be seen by Matt and Emily as a father figure, but as a friend. Like quite a few other slices of dialogue in Back in Action, Nigel's comments lean more into trope humor than anything fully organic, but Demetriou still manages to make the lines feel entirely sincere to his character's rose-colored glasses worldview.

From there, Nigel and Ginny are thankfully brought into the high-octane action plot, albeit from the sidelines for a while. And he doesn't even need to be able to talk coherently to win viewers' attention, as proven when Ginny and Nigel are tied up with tape over their mouths.

I don't mean to take anything away from Glenn Close's performance here by glorifying all things Jamie Demetriou. She truly brings the perfect amount of credible gravitas and confidence to Ginny that Nigel clearly strives for, making his own sense of self-assurance that much more amusing in comparison.

What's more, he ends up being Semi-Hero of the Day by attaining possession of the ICS key and averting a potentially disastrous flood. Was it complete garbage that Nigel smacking the laptop in desperate frustration made everything magically work in his favor? Absolutely, but I'm not going to blame a deux ex machina on the actor himself.

Nigel And Ginny Should Get Their Own Back In Action Sequel

For all that Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz are genuinely entertaining to watch together on screen, I wasn't all that amped up by Back in Action's last-second sequel-priming reveal that Emily's father is also still alive and involved with something shady. I suppose it would be fun to for Alice and Leo to train up and join the action themselves, but it'd be hard not to judge the parents for allowing it.

Instead, I'd rather see Jamie Demetriou and Glenn Close specifically team up again for a second film where we get to see Ginny putting Nigel through the gauntlet of MI6 training, regardless of what overarching plotline they'd have to follow. To watch a bunch of legitimate agents raining judgment down on Nigel's bumbling optimism sounds like a cringe-covered treat.

I doubt director and co-writer Seth Gordon will actually go that route, when Diaz and Foxx are the obvious headliners here, but one can always hope. And during all that hoping, fans can also check out a handful of Demetriou's other A+ performances noted below:

• The Afterparty Season 1 - stream with an Apple TV+ subscription
• Stath Lets Flats Seasons 1-3 - stream with a Peacock subscription
• A Whole Lifetime with Jamie Demetriou special - stream with a Netflix subscription

Jamie Demetriou will also soon be seen in Jay Roach’s satire The Roses, as well as the upcoming Adam Sandler movie Jay Kelly, which is being helmed by Noah Baumbach and co-stars George Clooney, Laura Dern and plenty of other A-listers for the UK actor to shine amongst.

Jamie Foxx is back in action, both personally and professionally, as his film Back In Action premiered on Netflix’s 2025 schedule and he opened up about being hospitalized after having a stroke almost two years ago. Now, while we get to laugh at him and Cameron Diaz in their new film, the comedian also brought the funny as he spoke about how humor -- and wild things like impersonating Denzel Washington -- helped save him in the hospital.

While speaking about his Netflix stand-up special, What Had Happened Was, and addressing his medical scare, Foxx also talked about using humor in his personal life to help his recovery. Now, his daughters might not have been aware of his standup career growing up, but he mentioned during this chat on The Graham Norton Show that he’s always been funny at home too.

Setting the scene for what led to his funny hospital interactions, Foxx explained how he reacted when he woke up after his stroke:

To get back, the Oscar winner had the support of his daughters, family and friends. However, he also had his sense of humor.

We’ve seen this funny side displayed in some of Foxx’s best movies and standup work. However, the nurses at the hospital got a front-row seat to his comedy. The actor explained that he’d joke around and impersonate Denzel Washington in the hospital as a way to heal, he said:

As you can see in the video, Foxx did his funny impression of Denzel Washington, imitating what he’d do in the hospital when people asked him how he was.

Honestly, it's a stellar impression. It's one Foxx has done before too, and in an interview with Grey Goose Vodka, he even did it in front of Washington, who found it hilarious.

In times of trouble, comedy can really help heal, and that’s been proven over and over again. Jamie Foxx’s story here is just further justification for why humor truly can make everything better.

I hope the nurses got a kick out of his Denzel impression, and now I’m gonna need Foxx to host SNL so he can bring that impersonation and others to live TV for all of us to enjoy. In the meantime, we can all appreciate Jamie Foxx, who is healed, happy and healthy, by streaming his film Back in Action and his standup special with a Netflix subscription.

One of the best movies on Netflix that just started streaming is Back In Action. The action comedy has Cameron Diaz starring in her first movie in over a decade after leaving Hollywood and saying “no to everything, other than for my wine.” With the actress taking acting jobs again, including an upcoming movie with Keanu Reeves and the next Shrek movie, could she return for some of the other famous movies she’s known for. She was recently asked about The Mask and Charlie’s Angels.

Would Cameron Diaz Be Up For Doing The Mask 2?

When Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx did press for Back In Action, which is now streaming for those with a Netflix subscription, the 52-year-old was asked if she’d be open to playing Tina Carlyle again after it became her first movie in 1994 – especially after Jim Carrey shared his interest in returning. In her words:

When Diaz spoke to Access Hollywood, Diaz was surprised to hear Jim Carrey would be game to be back for another The Mask movie. In an interview with ComicBook last month, Carrey didn’t exactly say that. He said “it has to be the right idea” and it’s “not really about the money” for him. We’ve been asking for a sequel to The Mask for years, and it would just have to have Cameron Diaz involved if it was ever made.

And, What About Charlie’s Angels 3?

Another sequel we would be over the moon for from Cameron Diaz’s career is another Charlie’s Angels movie with herself, Drew Barrymore and Lucy Liu. When a possible sequel was brought up to the actress, here’s how she and Jamie Foxx reacted:

Diaz: "It'd be amazing."

Foxx: "That would be insane, I would be throwing my hat in the ring to be..."

Diaz: I was gonna say, we need a Bosley."

Cameron Diaz was in two Charlie’s Angels movies as Natalie Cook in 2000 and the 2003 sequel Full Throttle, and they remain iconic action comedies. While we haven’t heard about a sequel, the latest news about the franchise came in 2021 when it was reported that Liu and Bill Murray had a shouting match on the set of the 2000 film. After it was alleged that Liu fired back at Murray for insulting her acting ability, Liu recently said she had no regrets over protecting herself during the confrontation.

Anyways, since Murray was Bosley in that version of Charlie’s Angels, Cameron Diaz threw in the name of her Back In Action co-star, and he seemed very excited by the idea. How cool would it be if Diaz was able to play one or both of these characters again?

Back in Action may be the name of the latest release on Netflix’s 2025 schedule, but it’s also a pretty accurate assessment on both of its stars. The spy comedy is Cameron Diaz’s first film in a decade after she turned down everything but her wine business,. Additionally, production was paused for a bit until Jamie Foxx was able to settle back in after his 2023 health scare. So was it worth the wait to see the reunion between these two (who previously appeared in Any Given Sunday and 2014’s Annie)? Critics screened the movie ahead of its January 17 release, and they’ve got some pretty brutal reactions.

Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx play ex-CIA agents who are forced to return to their super secret ways after having their identities exposed. The Back in Action trailer makes it look like we’re in for a fun and hilarious time, so should you be firing up that Netflix subscription to check this one out this weekend? Jim Vorel of Paste says maybe not, rating it a 5.0 out of 10. While the stunt work and choreography are pretty slick, the script is stuck in the past, the critic writes, continuing:

Taylor Gates of Collider rates it a 4 out of 10, saying Back in Action is “too formulaic to be fun,” and it struggles in tone as too adult to engage a younger audience but too kid-friendly to be considered one of Netflix’s sexiest movies. Gates says:

Nick Schager of The Daily Beast agrees the upcoming 2025 movie is a “major letdown,” saying no one was asking it to reinvent the wheel, but the “overwhelming banality of its every element is tough to stomach.” Harsh! Schager continues:

Christian Zilko of IndieWire grades it a C- and says Back in Action is as generic as they come. However, even with its simple premise and predictable twist, Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx each making a comeback in their own way adds an undeniable layer of interest. In Zilko’s words:

Critics and audiences seem to agree with the above assessments, too, with Back in Action sporting middling scores on Rotten Tomatoes as it hits Netflix — one of the best streaming services — on January 17. Accumulated critics have rated it 58%, while the audience’s Popcornmeter is slightly lower at 50%. The action-comedy is available to stream now.

Cameron Diaz is coming out of retirement for Back In Action with Jamie Foxx. Fans can watch the flick this weekend with a Netflix subscription, but the actress’ return to the big (small) screen was not always set in stone. She really dove into rebranding her life after marrying Benji Madden, she started a wine brand called Avaline with a delightful rosé, and she became a mom of two. That seemed to be her next step… until Foxx reeled her back into the industry.

Netflix spoke with Diaz ahead of the release of Back in Action and she opened up about what her life looked like during the 10 years she was out of the business. She said she was just trying to “keep it going” like most moms out there, and her focus was on selling a lot of Avaline wine (which she succeeded at). She spoke about her choices in what she thought would be her Hollywood exit.

But then something changed, and as it turns out that something is a very persuasive Jamie Foxx. She said the actor called her up and told her all about the action movie premise. She said it sounded like a person and a movie she could “have a ball with,” after previously sharing her return to Hollywood was something she felt she "had to do."

The new 2025 movie release has been a long time coming. I actually would have thought Back in Action would have hit the Netflix schedule sooner, but filming was interrupted while Foxx dealt with his health crisis and hospitalization in 2023. Feud rumors subsequently swirled about the two stars, but she’s been nothing but cool about working with Foxx through the elongated period the movie was coming together. Which I would assume would have been a bit tough given it was her first time on a set in years.

Listen, plenty of stars have said they would retire before coming back to make another movie. Famously among them was Jim Carrey, who admitted after appearing in Sonic 3 that he needed the money.

What I’d love to see from Diaz is sort of a hybrid. Gwyneth Paltrow doesn’t really act anymore, but she shows up onscreen when the mood suits her, most recently voicing a character in American Horror Stories (which her husband Brad Falchuk partially created). She’s also set to star in an upcoming A24 movie with Timothée Chalamet playing a table tennis champion. I’d love to see Diaz on this sort of trajectory too, one where she could mostly focus on making wine – absolutely no hate on that front at all – but where she could still pick up a high-profile project every year or two.

In the meantime, Back in Action is an at-home flick and I fully plan to crack open a bottle of Avaline Rosé while watching it this weekend. If the girl’s gonna get back into acting I feel like I need to fully support it.

The Academy Award for Best Actor has been handed out every year since 1929 — fun fact, it was awarded to German actor Emil Jannings for not one but two acclaimed roles, in The Last Command and The Way of All Flesh — and in the near-century since, it's been presented 97 times to 86 actors. But while taking home that coveted statuette is definitely a career highlight for any performer, the honor does add a little extra pressure on the actor's next project. Will it be as beloved and acclaimed as the role that won them the gold? Here are 32 films that Oscar-winning actors did after taking home the Academy Award, and how they were received.

Cillian Murphy

After the enormity of portraying famed physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer in Christopher Nolan's billion-dollar blockbuster Oppenheimer, and taking home the 2024 Oscar for Best Actor in the process, Cillian Murphy went small for his next film — literally. In the 2024 adaptation of Claire Keegan's Small Things Like These, Murphy returned to his native Ireland to play Bill, a quiet coal merchant and father of five internally struggling with the harsh realities of the infamous Magdalene Laundries. While Murphy didn't replicate the awards dominance of Oppenheimer with SMTLT, his internal and affecting performance was widely praised by critics.

Joaquin Phoenix

After four nominations throughout his decades-spanning career, Joaquin Phoenix finally took home that Best Actor statue in 2020 for his engrossing portrayal of the nihilistic clown Arthur Fleck in Todd Phillips' Joker. Following that iconic role, Phoenix next appeared in the 2021 Mike Mills dramedy C'mon C'mon, an improv-heavy performance that saw the actor play a middle-aged radio journalist tasked with babysitting his nephew (Woody Norman) while on the road for work. Phoenix was nominated for Outstanding Lead Performance at the Gotham Awards, and the film was chosen by the National Board of Review as one of the Top 10 Independent Films of the year.

Will Smith

Will Smith had quite an, um, eventful evening when he took home the Oscar for Best Actor in 2022 for King Richard after two prior nominations (Ali, The Pursuit of Happyness). Winning an Oscar means that a spotlight is already bright on an actor, but the added publicity from the ceremony means his post-slap comeback would be even more scrutinized than usual. His follow-up was 2022's Emancipation, in which he played a runaway slave in 1860s Louisiana. Though the drama received mixed reviews overall, Smith won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture for his performance.

Anthony Hopkins

Though he's garnered six Oscar nominations across his illustrious acting career — with his most recent win being for 2021's The Father — Anthony Hopkins' first Academy Award was for that scene-stealing villain, psychiatrist turned serial killer Hannibal Lector in 1991's The Silence of the Lambs. Following up such an iconic performance is no small task and unfortunately, Hopkins' next film, 1992's Freejack opposite Emilio Estevez and Mick Jagger, was a sci-fi dud, bombing both with critics and audiences. During an appearance on the Late Show with David Letterman, Hopkins himself called the film "terrible."

Leonardo DiCaprio

Five-time nominee Leonardo DiCaprio had a bit of "always the bridesmaid" syndrome where the Academy Awards were concerned, until he finally took home the Best Actor Oscar for his emotionally raw and physically punishing performance in Alejandro G. Iñárritu's 2019 Western epic The Revenant. His next big-screen role was, graciously, a bit less cold and blustery, trading the frosty American Midwest for starry Los Angeles in Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The latter received 10 Oscar nominations at the 92nd Academy Awards, including a nod for DiCaprio's individual work.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington had already taken home a Best Supporting Actor Oscar for playing a Civil War soldier in the 1989 war drama Glory, but he got his first big Best Actor win for portraying corrupt LAPD officer Alonzo Harris in the 2001 crime thriller Training Day. His next performance was another memorable Denzel role: as the title character in the 2002 Nick Cassavetes-directed drama John Q, which saw Washington play a desperate father who takes a hospital emergency room hostage in order for his son to receive a heart transplant. Alas, despite some praise for Denzel's performance, the film itself boasts only a 26% critics' rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Robert De Niro

Six years after taking home the Best Supporting Actor statue for The Godfather Part II, Robert De Niro got his Best Actor win for his iconic and intense work as boxing champion Jake LaMotta in Martin Scorsese's Raging Bull. A year later, De Niro put away the boxing gloves and picked up the Bible to play a Roman Catholic monsignor in 1981's True Confessions, opposite fellow The Godfather great Robert Duvall. Though reviews for the neo-noir were largely positive, the National Review's William F. Buckley, Jr. panned it: "Robert De Niro is badly miscast. He is never entirely convincing."

Matthew McConaughey

After acclaimed turns in 2011's Lincoln Lawyer and 2012's Magic Mike, the so-called "McConaissance" was officially solidified a year later with Matthew McConaughey's Oscar-winning portrayal of Ron Woodroof, a cowboy diagnosed with AIDS, in the biopic Dallas Buyers Club. Despite not having nearly as much screentime, the actor's next performance was just as memorable: a chest-thumping, meme-inducing extended cameo as Mark Hanna in Martin Scorsese's The Wolf of Wall Street.

Tom Hanks

Beyond being one of the most beloved actors of all time, Tom Hanks also holds a piece of cinema history: he's one of only two actors to win back-to-back Academy Awards for acting. Yes, that means after taking home the Best Actor Oscar for his heart-wrenching performance as HIV-positive lawyer Andrew Beckett in 1994's Philadelphia, Hanks struck Oscar gold yet again with his very next performance, as the titular lead of 1995's Forrest Gump.

Rami Malek

Rami Malek belted his way to an Oscar as legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury in the glossy 2019 biopic Bohemian Rhapsody. His first post-award performance also revolved around his voice — voice acting, that is, as Malek portrayed a mountain gorilla named Chee-Chee in the 2020 fantasy-adventure film Dolittle, with his future Oppenheimer co-star Robert Downey Jr. as the titular doc. The family-friendly flick received abysmal reviews from critics, with Courtney Howard of Variety writing: "What should have been an awe-filled adventure quickly curdles into an awful one, thanks to a pedestrian formula and the filmmakers' fixation on fart jokes."

Adrien Brody

In 2003, Adrien Brody made Oscar history when he won the Academy Award for Best Actor at age 29 for his portrayal of Władysław Szpilman in Roman Polanski's war drama The Pianist, becoming the youngest actor ever to win in that category. Later that year, he followed up his historic win with the musical crime comedy The Singing Detective, about a mystery writer (Robert Downey Jr.) who relives his detective stories through his imagination and hallucinations. The film scored a 39% "Rotten" rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx had one hell of a 2004, serving up not one but two award-worthy performances: He took home the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance as soul great Ray Charles in the 2004 biopic Ray and also received a Best Supporting Actor nod that same year for his work in the crime film Collateral. It would be near-impossible for any performer to hit that kind of stratospheric high again, especially with Foxx's follow-up Stealth — the 2005 military action flick co-starring Josh Lucas and Jessica Biel was dubbed a "stink-bomb" by Roger Ebert.

Daniel Day-Lewis

Acting legend Daniel Day-Lewis deservedly holds the record for the most Best Actor awards ever, with three wins out of six nominations, but his first was for playing Christy Brown, a writer-artist born with cerebral palsy, in the 1989 drama My Left Foot. And though he would later follow that iconic role up by playing famous figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Bill the Butcher, his immediate next performance was as an Irish-American dentist traveling around Argentina in the forgettable 1989 dramedy Eversmile, New Jersey.

Jack Nicholson

The first of three Academy Awards for the legendary movie star, Jack Nicholson's One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest performance as Randle McMurphy nabbed him the Oscar in 1976. Later that year, he would star as cattle rustler Tom Logan opposite Marlon Brandon in the Arthur Penn-helmed Western The Missouri Breaks. Coming hot on the heels of not only his own Oscar win but also Brando's for The Godfather, the film was highly anticipated — however, it failed to live up to those expectations and became a notorious critical and commercial flop.

Marlon Brando

One of the most iconic cinema stars of all time, Marlon Brando was nominated for eight Oscars across his decades-spanning career. He won two, the first being for his electrifying role as prizefighter turned longshoreman Terry Malloy in the 1954 crime drama On the Waterfront, widely considered one of the greatest acting performances of all time. His next role as Napoleon Bonaparte in the historical romance Désirée didn't win him any awards, but Variety reportedly called his performance "a masterful exhibition of thesping" at the time.

Philip Seymour Hoffman

The late, great Philip Seymour Hoffman had already solidified himself as a vibrant and vital supporting actor with films like The Talented Mr. Ripley, Almost Famous, Magnolia and 25th Hour, but his Oscar-winning portrayal of author Truman Capote in 2005's Capote officially upped him to leading man status. He would receive another three Oscar nominations in the years to follow, but his very next role was more of a crowd-pleaser than an awards grab: as arms dealer Owen Davian in Mission: Impossible III.

Russell Crowe

Audiences and critics alike were very much entertained by Russell Crowe's performance as Maximus Decimus Meridius in the 2000 Rome-set epic Gladiator, which earned the New Zealand-born star the Best Actor Oscar at the 73rd Academy Awards. Crowe would go up for the same award only a year later, for his portrayal of American mathematician John Forbes Nash Jr. in the biographical drama A Beautiful Mind, but he lost to Training Day lead Denzel Washington.

Jean Dujardin

Jean Dujardin rose to international fame with his performance as George Valentin in the 2011 silent movie The Artist — his Oscar win was a historic one, as he was the first French performer to ever take home the Best Actor statue. Despite his newfound Hollywood status, however, the actor-comedian returned to his native France for his next film credit: The Players, a 2012 comedy anthology co-starring Gilles Lellouche, with each man also directing and writing a segment.

Nicolas Cage

Nicolas Cage's filmography is a wild ride, from critically acclaimed fare like Raising Arizona, Moonstruck and Adaptation to straight-to-video shlock. Thankfully, his 1995 drama Leaving Las Vegas falls into the former category, winning Cage the Best Actor Oscar for his role as alcoholic screenwriter Ben Sanderson. (Funnily enough, it's not one of Nic Cage's favorite Nic Cage movies.) His next movie was the 1996 action thriller The Rock, which also won Cage an award: the Best On-Screen Duo statue at the MTV Movie Awards alongside co-star Sean Connery.

Eddie Redmayne

British star Eddie Redmayne won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of famed theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking in the 2014 biographical drama The Theory of Everything. But that career high was immediately followed by a career-low: a Golden Raspberry Award — a parody award honoring cinematic failures — for Worst Supporting Actor for his work in the galactically goofy 2015 space opera Jupiter Ascending. Even he admitted his performance was bad!

Sidney Poitier

A movie icon through and through, Bahamian-American actor Sidney Poitier made history in 1964 as the first Black performer to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Lilies of the Field. A year later, he moved on from that seminal role with the 1965 Cold War thriller The Bedford Incident, as a civilian photojournalist aboard a U.S. Navy ship that gets into some messy business with a Soviet submarine. Though Bosley Crowther of The New York Times wrote that "the whole thing transcends plausibility," other critics clearly disagreed — the movie has an 86% Certified Fresh rating.

Sean Penn

After a trio of Best Actor nominations, Sean Penn's haunting performance as a grieving, vengeful father of a murdered Boston girl in the Clint Eastwood-directed neo-noir Mystic River finally got him the Academy Award in 2004. Later that year, Penn starred in yet another crime thriller, The Assassination of Richard Nixon, based on the story of the POTUS's would-be assassin Samuel Byck in the mid-1970s. The latter film didn't share the award-worthy gravitas of Mystic River, though, per Rotten Tomatoes, critical consensus said: "A fascinating true story and compelling Sean Penn performance are worthy compensations."

Roberto Benigni

Few Oscar wins were as memorable as Roberto Benigni's, what with presenter Sofia Loren's passionate declaration of "Roberto!" to Benigni's literal victory lap up to the stage. The Italian actor-director took the Best Actor trophy in 1998 for the Holocaust tragicomedy Life is Beautiful, making him the first honoree for a non-English language performance. A year later, he would appear in a very different movie: French-Italian-German comedy adventure flick Asterix and Obelix vs. Caesar opposite Gérard Depardieu and Christian Clavier, which was a box office success.

Al Pacino

One of the most influential actors in modern cinema, Al Pacino was nominated for eight Academy Awards — including for The Godfather films, Serpico and the crime drama classic Dog Day Afternoon — before finally taking home the Best Actor statue for playing Frank Slade in 1992's Scent of a Woman. That Oscar win gave viewers an extra critical eye on his next role, as Nuyorican criminal Carlito Brigante in the De Palma crime drama Carlito's Way, however, reviews were largely positive.

Ben Kingsley

It's a daunting thing playing any famous figure in movies based on true stories, especially when the subject is so famous, that they need only one name. Case in point: Gandhi, the 1982 bio epic about the Indian political and spiritual leader Mahatma Gandhi, directed by Richard Attenborough and performed by English actor Sir Ben Kingsley. Luckily for them, the film won Best Picture and Kingsley took home the Best Actor award. Though his next project, the 1983 film adaptation of Harold Pinter's play Betrayal, didn't get Oscar acclaim, it was well-received by critics.

Humphrey Bogart

It seems surprising that Humphrey Bogart didn't win the Oscar for a role as iconic as Rick Blaine in the 1942 classic Casablanca. No, it would actually be another eight years until ol' Bogie won Best Actor for The African Queen, starring as Canadian mechanic Charlie Allnut opposite Katharine Hepburn's Methodist missionary Rose Sayer. His post-Oscar follow-up was the 1952 noir Deadline – U.S.A.: Variety said "Bogart gives a convincing performance all the way" as a big-city newspaper editor who exposes a gangster's crimes.

Forest Whitaker

Forest Whitaker was ferocious and formidable as Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in the 2006 historical drama The Last King of Scotland, one of his best performances that got the performer a Best Actor Oscar in '07. Later that year, the actor appeared in the ensemble crime drama The Air I Breathe alongside Kevin Bacon, Julie Delpy and Brendan Fraser. Though reviews for the film were overwhelmingly negative, several singled out Whitaker's performance. Annabelle Robertson at Crosswalk wrote: "Whitaker, in particular, is extremely sympathetic in his role—a feat that is all the more outstanding after his turn as the evil dictator in The Last King of Scotland."

Dustin Hoffman

After three Best Actor nods, New Hollywood icon Dustin Hoffman received his first Academy Award for playing half of a couple going through a devastating divorce (alongside an equally great Meryl Streep) in Kramer vs. Kramer in 1980. His next movie role is just as much of a classic: as Michael Dorsey-slash-Dorothy Michaels in the beloved 1982 comedy Tootsie, which nabbed the star yet another Best Actor nomination.

Gary Oldman

Gary Oldman was nearly unrecognizable in his prosthetics-heavy performance as British Prime Minister Winston Churchill in the 2017 historical drama Darkest Hour. The Academy Awards honored the quintessential Oldman role with a Best Actor award, his second nomination after Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. His next role was just as transformative, if not nearly as acclaimed: Oldman voiced an artificial intelligence in the 2018 sci-fi thriller Tau, which holds a woeful critical rating of 27% on Rotten Tomatoes.

Laurence Olivier

One of the most celebrated Shakespearean actors in film history, cinema icon Laurence Olivier starred in and directed adaptations of three of the Bard's best-known words, Henry V (1944), Hamlet (1948) and Richard III (1955), and earned a Best Actor Oscar for playing the Prince of Denmark. After portraying one of the most famous characters of all time, Olivier switched it up by cameoing as a no-name policeman in the 1951 drama The Magic Box, a "distinguished" bit of stunt casting that The New York Times praised as a delightful "extravagance."

Casey Affleck

Casey Affleck's devastating performance as a father grieving the loss of his three children in Kenneth Lonergan's gut-wrenching Manchester by the Sea clearly broke the collective hearts of the Academy, which voted to give the Boston-bred performer the Best Actor award in 2017. That year, he would tackle another exploration of love and loss with the supernatural drama A Ghost Story, which was a hit with critics — Richard Brody of The New Yorker included the title on his list of the decade's best films.

Brendan Fraser

Brendan Fraser experienced quite the career comeback when he took the Best Actor Oscar for his acclaimed performance as a morbidly obese, housebound English teacher in the 2022 Darren Aronofsky-directed melodrama The Whale. He kept those high-profile projects going with his next film credit, as attorney W. S. Hamilton in Martin Scorsese's stunning American crime drama Killers of the Flower Moon, which was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

2025 may just be getting underway but the best streaming services out there aren’t saving the best for last. There’s an abundance of great movies and TV to watch this week whether you’re checking to see what’s upcoming on Netflix, what’s next on Disney+, or if you have all the streaming services at once and just need some help figuring out which app to open first.

Some highly anticipated new seasons of popular TV shows are here, as well as the finale of one of the most popular new streaming series. They are alongside a new Netflix movie that we once were afraid we might never get a chance to see. Here’s what’s coming up on streaming this week.

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew Finale - January 14 (Disney+)

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew has been one of the best reasons to have a Disney+ subscription in the last year. The show has been fun, funny, and very exciting. Unfortunately, the series comes to an end with this week’s episode. Whether or not we might see more of it may depend greatly on how the season wraps up.

Diddy: The Making of a Bad Boy - January 14 (Peacock)

With the trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs set for May, the rapper and mogul is likely to continue making headlines for the next several months. What exactly went on at the star’s lavish parties, and how things got to this point, is the subject of a new series, Diddy: Making of a Bad Boy. The documentary may answer some of the fans' biggest questions, though Diddy’s legal team has already denounced the series and questioned the credibility of those that appear.

With Love, Meghan - January 15 (Netflix)

Meghan Markle doesn’t do much that doesn’t get a lot of buzz, of one kind or another. And such is the case with the latest project from the Netflix deal she and her husband made after leaving the royal family, With Love, Meghan. A lot of very loud voices have already condemned the series, which will see the Duchess of Sussex giving out cooking and gardening tips among other advice.

Harley Quinn, Season 5 - January 16 (Max)

A new DCU recently debuted on Max with James Gunn’s animated Creature Commandos, but that doesn’t mean that non-DCU animated projects are a thing of the past. Season 5 of Harley Quinn, the hyper-violent animated series, debuts this week if you’ve got a Max subscription.

Severance, Season 2 - January 17 (Apple TV+)

It's been nearly three years since Severance debuted and if you’ve been keeping your Apple TV+ subscription in order to be ready when Season 2 arrived, that patience is about to finally pay off. The early critical response to Severance Season 2 has been quite good, indicating that the long wait may have actually been worth it.

Back in Action -January 17 (Netflix)

Back in Action is a fitting title for a movie that Jamie Foxx almost didn’t finish making. It was during this production that Foxx had a health emergency that made headlines. Luckily, he survived, with apparently little to no lasting effects. The movie, which you can watch with a Netflix subscription, stars Foxx and a briefly out-of-retirement Cameron Diaz as a married couple and former CIA agents, who find themselves thrust back into the work they did before starting their family.

From great new series to high-profile movies it's a strong week no matter what streaming platforms you watch.

When news broke that Jamie Foxx was hospitalized for a “medical complication” in 2023, there was a lot of uncertainty and it was a very scary situation. While an insider said he allegedly kept mum about his condition at the time to avoid anyone seeing him in a “fragile” state, the Oscar winner recently told all in his Netflix special Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… which hit the streamer's No. 3 TV spot the week it came out. Now, the actor has opened up about how his daughters supported him during this horrifying time and how it impacted his Netflix special.

After being out of the stand-up game for a long time, Jamie Foxx returned to his comedy roots with the Netflix special What Had Happened Was… where he set the record straight about experiencing a brain bleed that led to a stroke. It turns out Jamie’s first symptoms began with a bad headache during the filming of Netflix’s Back in Action, and he woke up in a hospital after being “gone for 20 days.”

The Ray actor was seemingly in good health at the Golden Globes red carpet event where he was nominated for his comedy special. And he made sure to mention how his daughters, Corinne Marie and Anelise Estelle, were there for him during his health scare while speaking with ET:

That’s the sweetest thing to hear from a proud father. I love that he took the time to show appreciation for them and explain how much they helped him heal.

We didn't see every way his kids helped him, seeing as they kept this matter very private. However, at one point, for example, Corinne Foxx did set the record straight about her dad's condition and confirmed that he was out of the hospital for weeks and playing pickleball.

Even though Jamie Foxx’s Netflix special was hilarious, there were still some touching, emotional moments the Grammy winner conveyed about his stroke and his daughters being there for him. He also told ET that his two girls influenced the direction of his comedy special and the story he wanted to tell, explaining:

Corinne and Anelise certainly played big roles in Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… too.

Corinne started the special with a moving introduction that set the tone for the Netflix show’s exploration of her father’s health journey. Meanwhile, Anelise showed off her musical ability by playing her guitar on the stage right next to her dad.

In the special, the White House Down actor said his 16-year-old would bring her guitar to the hospital and play for him with the music working wonders on his vitals. Honestly, I couldn't help but feel all kinds of emotions watching him in the Golden Globe-nominated special cherishing the love his daughters gave him and giving it right back to them.

If there’s anything that made a health scare more bearable to Jamie Foxx, it was having his daughters by his side. By having Corinne and Anelise be part of his Netflix special, the comedian highlighted the immense support he received from them and the crucial role they played in his recovery. As he has reportedly flipped his life around after his medical issues, I’m sure that means his career, family, and good health will forever remain a priority to him.

To see the humor and emotion Jamie Foxx brings to What Had Happened Was… you can stream it with a Netflix subscription. You can also add his 2025 Netflix movie Back in Action to your watchlist, as it hits the streamer on January 17.

Jamie Foxx has been living his best life as of late, and that’s great to see considering where he was over a year ago. In April 2023, rumor swirled around the fan-favorite actor after he suffered a “medical emergency” that wasn’t disclosed by his family at the time. Foxx has since opened up about his health issues in his latest stand-up comedy special. As the 57-year-old actor continues to feel the love from fans, a recent report lays out alleged details on how he’s turned his life around following his medical issues.

It was revealed during the A-lister’s special, What Had Happened Was…, that last year, he suffered a brain bleed, which led to a stroke. Earlier this year, sources alleged that Jamie Foxx was settling back into his work following his recovery, and that has certainly seemed to be the case. Now, an insider tells OK Magazine that the Django Unchained star has also been prioritizing his personal health as of late. Apparently, his ordeal is “not something he will ever forget” and, with that, he’s allegedly implemented changes into his routine:

If these claims are true, it would seem like the Day Shift star is really committing to a new way of life. It’s also hard to argue with the efficacy of adding whole grains, organic fruits, veggies and more to one’s diet. The source went on to allege that the father of two has also made another major change to his regimen and, if this is true, it’s a good one:

Regardless of how exactly the Collateral star is changing his ways, I’m just happy to see him up and about. The past few months have seen him popping champagne in celebration of his new comedy special. He’s also looking towards the release of this 2025 movie schedule release Back in Action, for which he brought Cameron Diaz out of retirement. Unfortunately, the actor was injured amid a reported altercation in a restaurant earlier this month, which required him to get stitches around his mouth. But the actor remained upbeat when addressing the matter, saying “the devil is a lie.”

As a fan of Jamie Foxx, it does my heart well to see him back to working as he pleases. Hopefully, he remains in good health, not just for the sake of entertaining the masses but for his own personal well being.

You can grab a Netflix subscription to stream What Had Happened Was… right now. That same membership will also allow you to check out Back in Action when it debuts on the streamer on January 17.

There’s so much to be excited about when it comes to Back In Action. It marks Cameron Diaz’s return to acting, it looks like an incredibly fun entry on Netflix’s 2025 schedule, and it means we’ll get to see the actress and Jamie Foxx working together once again. However, the anticipation surrounding this movie has been hit with a few hurdles in the lead-up to its release, including rumors that the two stars were feuding. However, they recently took to a piano to hilariously sing about their friendship and fully prove that there’s no bad blood between them.

Now that we’re less than a month away from Back in Action’s release, Diaz and Foxx’s press run has begun, and Netflix posted this video of them performing a silly duet about their 25-year friendship, take a look:

In the video, Diaz noted that they became friends on Any Given Sunday, which was the first film they worked on in 1999. So, they’ve been pals for as long as I’ve been alive…let that sink in for a second.

To contextualize their long-lasting friendship even further, the Ray star hilariously sang about how they’ve been friends since before Apple made iPods. Then Diaz quipped that she’s made four Shrek films in that time (and she’s working on the fifth Shrek film now too).

Overall, this was a fun and silly way to remind everyone just how long these two have been friends. Plus, it emphasized the chemistry Diaz and Foxx share that is also on display in the Back in Action trailer. Oh, and, on top of that, it squashed the rumors that they were feuding while working on their latest film.

This video has people flashing back to the alleged drama that bubbled up over a year ago. In a report from The U.S. Sun in March 2023, it was alleged that Foxx had “a major meltdown” over the film and “demanded the problems be sorted immediately and sacked four of the production staff.” Then, The Daily Mail alleged that Diaz wanted to leave acting again because of this drama.

Months later, in December 2023, The Holiday actress went on Molly Sims’ podcast (via Page Six) and made her love for Foxx clear. While she said there were “hiccups,” she also explained that that’s “natural” and reasserted her appreciation for her co-star.

Bringing it all back around to the video Netflix posted, it’s very clear that there’s no bad blood between these two. Their friendship is still going strong, and it seems like they’re very excited about their film on the 2025 movie schedule, and so am I.

So, let’s put past rumors in the past and focus on the facts and the future. Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx have been friends for forever in my book, they’ve worked together on numerous occasions, and it’s obvious that they’re down to clown. That leaves us with a lot to look forward to when we use our Netflix subscriptions to watch Back in Action on January 17.

Jamie Foxx has been making headlines for over 30 years now as not only one of our best actors but as one of the funniest. His work on In Living Color in the early 1990s helped skyrocket him to stardom, but he got his entertainment industry start as a standup comedian. However, before his recent comedy special, Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was (which is available now to everyone with a Netflix subscription), he’d been out of the standup game for so long that his daughters were shocked by the performance.

What Did Jamie Foxx Reveal That His Daughters Said About Him Doing Standup?

I suppose it’s entirely possible, at this point, for someone to have been born and grown up only knowing of They Cloned Tyrone star Jamie Foxx as a movie star who also hosts the popular game show, Beat Shazam, with his oldest daughter, Corinne. Apparently, this was also the case for his kids, Corinne (30) and Anelise (16), who were shocked after watching his special for one of the best streaming services.

While speaking with Netflix’s Strong Black Lead he revealed his daughters’ response, saying:

While sometimes the memories of fans can be short, especially when you’re a fan of someone like Back in Action star Jamie Foxx (who transitioned into acting after only two years with his main entertainment gig being standup comedy, went on to win an Oscar for his lead role in 2004’s Ray, and has spent the past couple of decades mostly as an actor), one might wonder just how the people he raised (one of whom he’s worked with since 2017) could not know about his beginnings.

Well, as Foxx also mentioned in the clip, he hasn’t “officially” been on stage to do standup comedy “in 18 years,” which is over half of Corinne’s life and two years longer than Anelise has even been alive. I guess not every celeb kid Googles their famous parents, because if either of them had, I’m sure they would have come upon one of the previous times he stood in front of a crowd of strangers to make them laugh. You can watch the whole clip, below:

As noted, though, it’s not like his kids don’t have any knowledge of the wonderful things their dad has done to help keep everyone entertained over the years. Many of Foxx’s best movie performances also led to award nods or wins, and a number of roles that many people believe should have seen Foxx at least nominated for an Oscar. Along with that, he’s also had a number of top-selling albums and hit songs, and his daughters have been known to accompany him to events, even when they were little. So, they certainly understand how his career and talents have touched his fans, whether he was making us laugh or not.

I honestly think my friends could start calling me “Mr. Espionage,” judging by my love for all things spy-adjacent. As such I’ve been pleased to hear of 2024 TV schedule successes in that realm with the releases of Peacock’s The Day of the Jackal reboot and Netflix’s Black Doves. Keira Knightley’s much-buzzed-about series has specifically been killing it on its home platform, however, it has already been knocked out of the top spot by its homegrown competition.

That being said, the programs that dethroned the thriller are projects I’ve either watched or have now added to my watchlist, as the field of competitors is full of winners. At the time of publication, Black Doves is fourth in Netflix’s Top 10 TV Shows on the U.S. side of the library, which is still pretty good for a recently debuted show. But take a look at what’s topping the charts at this very moment, and tell me this isn’t a respectable fight:

1. La Palma
2. No Good Deed
3. Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was…

Yeah, this isn’t another case of Titanic's extended run at the top of the 1998 box office being bested by Lost in Space; and I say that with much love for that underrated sci-fi gem. You’ve got a volcano disaster drama series, a dark comedy that brings Lisa Kudrow and Ray Romano together in a dark comedy from the creator of Dead To Me, and Jamie Foxx’s triumphant stand-up return.

Even having only watched Mr. Foxx’s fantastic special presentation, I can respect this as a field of fantastic gamesmanship. Also, grounded disaster projects and dark comedies giving talent the opportunity to stretch are some sweet spots in my mind. It just feels like this is a no-lose scenario, but of course, that would depend on your own tastes in entertainment.

Turning back to Black Doves for a moment, I’m even more ready to binge this Ben Whishaw co-starring adventure during the coming holiday break. Though I will admit after reading our own Riley Utley’s wild Black Doves binging experience, I’m kind of curious how I’ll react to the very familiar voice and face of such characters as Q in Daniel Craig’s James Bond movies and Paddington Bear himself in this vastly different project.

That opportunity to see performers showing off their range and their natural talents is what makes this all so exciting though. And it seems like the three projects ahead of Black Doves tap into that idea too.

As with any streaming services, sometimes it feels like it’s hard to find something to watch when other periods seem to have an embarrassment of riches. Netflix’s current lineup appears to fall into that second bucket, which means that anyone else who has time to kill in the run-up to the new year should be pleasantly surprised and easily entertained.

There’s only one place you can find Black Doves and its formidable competition, and that’s through access to a Netflix subscription. But if you’ve already finished watching all of these titles, and want to look back on Netflix's other 2024 releases, you don’t need to go far.

Jamie Foxx garnered attention from fans this weekend following an alleged altercation that took place at a restaurant. It was reported that the fan-favorite actor had been assaulted, with glass having apparently been thrown at his face. Following the situation, a representative for Foxx spoke out, explaining that he was indeed injured during the ordeal and that he was recovering. It was also confirmed that he needed stitches near his mouth. Now, the actor himself is sharing a response and not holding back in doing so.

Amid the reports regarding his health, the Day Shift star took to Instagram to speak out. He didn’t share any specifics regarding what happened at the restaurant or an update on the state of his reported injuries. What the Oscar winner did include, however, was a screenshot that read, “The devil is busy… but I’m too blessed to be stressed.” The 57-year-old entertainer also doubled down on that declaration with the sentiments he shared in his caption:

Jamie Foxx reportedly celebrated his birthday at Mr. Chow in Beverly Hills on Friday, December 13. Onlookers reportedly spotted the comedian with members of his family, including his daughters, Corinne and Anelise. Sometime that evening, patrons at a nearby table were allegedly rude to Foxx and his party. With that, the Spider-Man: No Way Home star allegedly confronted the group and asked them to stop, after which someone apparently threw the glass at his mouth. Local authorities were later called to the eatery, and an assault report was reportedly completed.

While the multihyphenate didn’t get into specifics about the incident, his sentiments suggest that he’s not sweating anything that comes his way. This tracks with what’s known about the Just Mercy star, who typically opts to exude positivity and lift others up. For example, he did just that a few years ago when sending a supportive message to Will Smith upon the release of his historical drama, Emancipation.

These past few months have seen Jamie Foxx do some celebrating of his own due to the recently released comedy special he mentioned in his IG post, What Had Happened Was… In his return to stand-up, Foxx opens up about various facets of his life, including the medical emergency he suffered last year. He even makes a joke about Diddy while getting candid about his hospital stay. As Foxx mentioned, the production is currently trending high amongst the streamer’s various TV offerings.

Speaking of that same digital platform, the actor and comedian is set to headline one of its original films on the 2025 movie schedule – Back in Action – which co-stars Cameron Diaz. It goes without saying that the Project Power star is choosing to dwell on the positive aspects of life as opposed to the negative following the restaurant incident. And that’s understandable, especially considering just how much he has to be thankful for right now.

Grab a Netflix subscription and check out Jamie Foxx’s What Had Happened Was… now. Also, be sure to check out Back in Action when it hits that same streamer on January 17, 2025.

Last year, Jamie Foxx was embroiled in a medical emergency that sparked various reports and rumors. The 57-year-old comedian has since recovered and returned to his work. However, it was reported this weekend that Foxx was injured in a situation that involved glass being thrown at his face. Said incident was apparently part of an alleged restaurant altercation. Now, a representative for Foxx is providing an update on the star following the situation.

The Ray alum was reportedly out on Friday night with his loved ones, as the group took in a a meal at popular restaurant Mr. Chow in Beverly Hills. According to TMZ, police were called to the establishment around 10 p.m. local time because of a supposed fight at the location. Early on, it was said that an assault report had been taken, and a witness alleged that the aforementioned Oscar winner had been hurt. Now, per a statement from the A-lister’s rep, he’s currently recovering:

TMZ also spoke to a witness about the incident, who claimed that patrons at one of the restaurant's tables were being rude towards Jamie Foxx. Per this unnamed individual, Foxx apparently tried to reason with the customers, asking them to stop being innapropriate due to his family’s presence. That was allegedly when someone at the table threw the glass at the Dreamgirls’ alum’s mouth. As of this writing, authorities have not provided any additional statements on the incident.

It's noted by the news outlet that this isn’t the first time that the They Cloned Tyrone star has frequented Mr. Chow as of late. Reporters for the site caught up with him there just earlier this week, at which point he was celebrating the release of his new coming special. As noted by the multihyphenate’s rep, he was celebrating his birthday (which is on December 13) this time around. When it comes to those accompanying him, TMZ captured photos of Corinne and Anelise Foxx – Jamie’s two daughters – at the restaurant as well.

Jamie Foxx has seemingly been popping champagne and doing quite a bit of celebrating, thanks to his new comedy special, What Had Happened Was... The production, which is available to Netflix subscription holders, sees the star discuss a myriad of topics, including the medical situation that captured much of the public’s attention in 2023. Foxx reveals on stage that he was rushed to the hospital due to a stroke – and he also makes an unexpected P. Diddy joke while sharing the emotional story.

When it comes to the restaurant incident, there are still a number of details that are unknown to the public. It’s also unclear as to when police might provide further details regarding what went down that night. All of that aside, it’s good to hear that the Jarhead star is recovering accordingly following the reported assault.

Check out Jamie Foxx’s What Had Happened Was… now on Netflix. Those already eager to see more of Foxx should know that his latest film, Back in Action, will hit the streamer on January 17 amid the 2025 movie schedule.

I’m a huge fan of horse operas, and I’ve watched many of the best westerns of all time.

However, one thing that has always kind of bugged me about the genre is that a number of classic westerns either A: Don’t feature any Black characters whatsoever, or B: feature Black characters, but in a minute role, or in a demeaning fashion (I’m looking at you, 1931 Cimarron).

That’s why when I see Black characters featured prominently in westerns, I get super excited. So, here are just a few such examples. Yah!

Ned Logan (Morgan Freeman) - Unforgiven

The story of a disfigured sex worker, and the bounty her friends put on the men who did it to her, Unforgiven is often seen as a meditative western, starring none other than Clint Eastwood. It’s one of my all-time favorites, and I often go back and forth on whether I think The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, or Unforgiven is the better western.

Eastwood, who also directed the Oscar-winning film, is the star of the picture, and he plays William Munny, a former outlaw who has a failing farm and needs the money. He enlists the help of his friend, Ned Logan, played by Morgan Freeman, as well as a rather green cowboy who goes by the name of “the Schofield Kid”.

Well, unlike Munny, who still has the heart of a killer, Ned doesn’t, and he’s conflicted about coming back into the field. In one pivotal moment, he shows he can no longer kill a man, as he truly did leave that life behind. And, I just love how three dimensional his character is. Ned is a man who wants to help – both the sex workers, as well as his old riding buddy – but he really struggles because he feels like he can’t anymore.

Unfortunately, Logan comes up against the villainous Little Bill (who is definitely a cop who doesn’t follow the rules), and his story is a tragic one. But, it’s also memorable in a genre that doesn’t always have memorable performances for Black actors.

Cuffee (Danielle Deadwyler) - The Harder They Fall

In this predominantly Black western directed by Jeymes Samuel, a cowboy named Nat Love (Jonathan Majors) seeks vengeance against a terrifying outlaw named Rufus Buck (Idris Elba). As a plus, basically all of the principle characters are based off of real people, so this story doubles as historical fiction.

With a cast as stacked as this one, I literally could have picked any of the characters, but I’m choosing Cuffee, played by Danielle Deadwyler, since she’s the most fascinating to me.

Based on the real Cathay Williams, who was the first (and ostensibly only) woman to serve in the U.S. Army during the American Frontier Wars (she posed as a man), Cuffee is interesting because she is probably the best shooter out of the bunch of sharpshooters. Hers is a tale of being both underestimated, but also feared, for her proficiency with a firearm.

My favorite moment is when she squares up against Cherokee Bill (Lakeith Stanfield), since it has all the hallmarks of a battle for the quickest hand. Honestly, I wish there were more excellent roles for Black women in westerns. We don’t get nearly enough of them. Speaking of which…

Moses “Mo” Washington (Letitia Wright) - Surrounded

In a post-Civil War America, Mo Washington (Letitia Wright) is a free woman looking for gold. But, due to unforeseen circumstances, Washington has to stay with an outlaw (Jamie Bell) as others go out for help after her stagecoach was attacked.

Wright, who I first learned about through Black Panther, is an indomitable force in this movie. You know she’s tough since she plays a former Buffalo Soldier, but her toughness is put to the test when dealing with Jamie Bell’s character, who offers a pretty ostentatious performance.

But, Mo plays it cool. As a Black woman, there are many who don’t take her seriously. That is until she whips out her pistols and makes them take her seriously.

Much like Cuffee in the last entry, Mo understands that she’s underestimated, which is why it’s all the more satisfying when she puts ignorant men in their place.

Buck (Sidney Poitier) - Buck And The Preacher

In this exciting western, which was also Poitier’s directorial debut, he plays a former soldier named Buck who helps get other Black people across the country through indigenous territory. Buck has struck a sort of agreement with the indigenous people, which comes in handy later when white bounty hunters try to get Buck to stop his work. It all culminates in an exciting conclusion.

Buck and the Preacher is a really fun film, and I regret that I didn’t mention it in my list of Sidney Poitier’s best movies after he passed. Also starring Harry Belafonte as the “Preacher” (I put it in quotes since he’s not really a preacher), and Ruby Dee as Buck’s wife, the film is action-packed and humorous in all the best ways.

One thing I love about Buck is that he sticks to his guns and doesn’t run from his duties to help other African Americans. I also like that he always seems two steps ahead, and that he has formed a sort of kinship with the indigenous people, as they both find a common adversary who they can rally against.

There may be more recognizable Sidney Poitier movies, but when it comes to westerns featuring Black characters, Buck and the Preacher is certainly one of the best.

Daniel Holt (Jeffrey Wright) - Ride With The Devil

Ang Lee's Ride With the Devil is a western like no other.

Telling the story of the warring factions between the Jayhawks and the Bushwackers back in Civil War times, Ride With the Devil tells a complicated tale of white men killing each other.

So why, pray tell, is it on this list, then? Well, because of Jeffrey Wright's character, Daniel Holt, a former slave who is fighting on the Confederate side since his freedom was bought by his Southern friend.

This is definitely one of Jeffrey Wright's best roles because he plays such a complex character. And this is because he's not conflicted about which side he's chosen. He'd rather fight beside his friend than fight for his potential future, which is a unique perspective, to be sure.

Django Freeman (Jamie Foxx) - Django Unchained

In this revisionist western from Quentin Tarantino, a former slave (Jamie Foxx) is enlisted by a bounty hunter (Christoph Waltz) to hunt down some suspects, only to eventually become a bounty hunter himself; unchained, as it were.

I like to watch Django Unchained during Black History Month, because it's just so satisfying to watch as a Black man.

Django goes from being shackled to shooting a plantation owner dead in his own mansion. What's not to love?

Django is a particularly fascinating character, though, since he flourishes so wonderfully. My favorite part is when he's decked out in that fancy blue outfit, and he kills a racist jerk with gusto. I mean, seriously. How cool can you possibly get?

Major Marquis Warren, "The Bounty Hunter" (Samuel L. Jackson) - The Hateful Eight

In yet another western by Tarantino (which was supposedly a sequel to Django Unchained before Tarantino scrapped the idea), a collective of people with different motives are stuck in a cabin together during a snowy winter day. Violence ensues.

Some might say that Tarantino did Jackson dirty in Django by making him an Uncle Tom-esque character, but if so, he did right by him in The Hateful Eight, where Jackson is arguably the coolest character in the movie.

Playing a bounty hunter this time around, Jackson manages to get one up on pretty much everybody he encounters. This makes an argument for Major Marquis Warren being one of the greatest characters in Jackson's lengthy career.

Not everybody adores The Hateful Eight when considering Tarantino's filmography, it's actually my second favorite movie of his (right after Pulp Fiction, of course), and Jackson's character is definitely the reason why.

For more news on any future westerns, be sure to swing by here often!

As a balance to all of the traditional holiday fare out there, one of the best streaming picks of the week isn’t one of the many Christmas movies hitting this season, but an emotionally charged stand-up performance from Jamie Foxx. (Or “Jamie Motherfuckin’ Foxx” as he puts it several times.) Everyone with a Netflix subscription should stream the new special Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was to hear the comedian’s candid anecdotal explanation about his April 2023 medical emergency.

Oh, and also to hear a lot of hilarious sidebars and sporadic impressions, since this IS Jamie Foxx after all. And yes, the In Living Color vet somehow managed to slip in a quick roast slamming the currently imprisoned music producer Sean “Diddy” Combs in the midst of what is often a teary-eyed tale.

In his special, Foxx revealed that it was a brain bleed that sparked the headache that sent him to the hospital, resulting in a stroke, and he lost memory of 20 days of his life around the time. He talked about the process of his sister taking him to the hospital and then going under for an operation, which is where he referenced the former rapper facing a variety of sexual assault accusations. As the They Cloned Tyrone actor put it:

Understandably, that comment sparked a lot of surprised laughter throughout the crowd. At to his credit, the news about Diddy was quite current at the time, with the news about mass amounts of baby oil being found on Combs' property coming out just a couple of weeks prior to Foxx performing his special. (He recorded it on October 5 at the Alliance Theater in Atlanta, GA.)

Foxx doubled down slightly after the laughs, saying:

Coincidentally enough, as it were, Jamie Foxx also went into a Jay-Z impression, which followed his impression of Mike Tyson and Dave Chappelle, but came before he broke his Donald Trump voice out. The Grammy-winning rapper was linked with Diddy and was accused of raping a minor in a lawsuit that went public this week (though it didn't stop him from celebrating Blue Ivy's Mufasa premiere with his wife and kid).

Foxx dropped Diddy's name later in the special as well, in reference to the bizarre rumors that he was cloned, possibly by the rapper, if he wasn't his normally jokey and smiling self. But no clones here. Just good ol' O.G. Jamie Foxx. His story about Halle Berry proved that and then some.

Complete with a guitar-picking appearance from his daughter Annalise and a piano performance, Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was is available to stream in full on Netflix.

We’re heading toward the middle of December, and it seems the folks behind the best streaming services know that it’s getting cold outside. That's because they’re putting an incredible list of content up on their platforms this week. I could have filled this entire list with what’s new on Netflix and what’s upcoming on Disney+ alone, because there’s enough worth of note on those platforms alone.

However, there’s at least one new show or movie on every major platform that’s worth checking out this week. From major theatrical releases making their streaming debut to the newest entries in successful franchises, here's what’s coming to streaming this week.

New TV

Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was… - December 10 (Netflix)

It’s been a little less than two years since Jamie Foxx's mysterious medical emergency, which made headlines. Since that time, he hasn’t said much about it publicly. That’s likely to change this week, if you have a Netflix subscription when his new comedy special What Had Happened Was. Some claims coming off the taping indicated that Foxx will discuss what happened to him, though clearly in a humorous way.

Dream Productions - December 11 (Disney+)

Inside Out 2 looks like it will become 2024's highest-grossing movie. Knowing that excitement for Dream Productions is likely high. The new Disney+ limited series will focus on the Dream Productions area of Riley’s mind as seen in the first movie, acting as a sort of mockumentary-style workplace comedy that paints the titular entity as a movie studio. We can expect more than a few meta-jokes coming from this new Disney+ series.

Dexter: Original Sin - December 13 (Paramount+)

The Showtime series Dexter was a huge hit in its day, but it ended in a way that made continuing the story from there challenging. But there really isn’t any way to kill a franchise, and thus Dexter: Original Sin is here. The prequel series stars Patrick Gibson as Dexter Morgan but will also include original series star Michael C. Hall as an older Dexter narrating the story.

New Movies

Red One - December 12 (Prime Video)

With a $164 million worldwide box office take, the new Christmas movie Red One starring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans hasn't proven itself truly profitable against its large budget. While Red One actually got to see the big screen, it was always planned to be a streaming offering for those with a Prime Video subscription, and so anyone who's been waiting to see the movie that way doesn't need to wait much longer.

Joker: Folie à Deux - December 13 (Max)

The sequel to the smash hit Joker certainly didn’t set the box office on fire with its strange musical (but not a musical) sequel. Still, we’ve seen more than a few movies that struggled at the box office find their audience on streaming platforms. Anybody with a Max subscription will be able to check out Joker: Folie à Deux for themself and decide whether the sequel is as bad as critics claim.

Next week, we enter the back half of December and begin closing out the year. Know that a lot more fun is on the way before 2024 comes to a close!

Before Jennifer Lopez was a world-renowned actress and musical talent who could sell out arenas, she got her start in Hollywood by way of a show by the name of In Living Color. JLo was a member of the Fly Girls – the show’s in-house dance troupe. She, of course, eventually made waves on the show and eventually found major stardom, but not everything was easy for Lopez in the beginning. On that note, she recently recalled the sweet way Jamie Foxx helped her early in her career.

At the beginning of the third season of Fox’s beloved sketch comedy show, Jamie Foxx joined alongside Jennifer Lopez, so they were both newbies at the time. Jennifer Lopez recalled this time in her life while chatting with Jharrel Jerome for an EW segment, her co-star in the 2024 movie schedule release Unstoppable. Jerome recalled the attention he received following his brilliant turn in the 2016 Moonlight and how Foxx provided him with keen advice at the time. After that, Lopez shared her own story about her friendship with Foxx:

It’s wild to think that if not for the future Oscar winner’s kindness and support, the “Jenny from the Block” singer could’ve very well forsaken her career. While many of us probably can’t relate to being on a major network show, a number of people can likely understand the notion of being homesick. I mean, making the leap from the east to west coast is no small endeavor, and it certainly helps to have a friend when you’re in new surroundings. All in all, I just love hearing that the dancer and songstress had someone watching her back in LA.

What’s also sweet is that the In Living Color cast members are still in touch. The show, which debuted in 1990 ended in 1994 after five seasons, and Jennifer Lopez left following the fourth season. Meanwhile, Jamie Foxx remained with the show throughout the remainder of its run. Some stars can certainly lose touch with each other over the years or become estranged due to drama. One need only look at the relationship between Foxx and Tommy Davidson (another cast member) to get a sense of that.

Considering the passage of time and how people can lose touch, it’s good to know that the Collateral star and Hustlers lead are still tight. The Keenen Ivory Wayans-created sketch show was a cultural touchstone and a hit for Fox, which was important for Black audiences in the ‘90s. It was simply iconic, and some viewers may even remember how the aforementioned celebrity friends were introduced. If not, check it out for yourself via this clip:

The years have certainly been good to both Jennifer Lopez and Jamie Foxx, as both remain booked and busy. Foxx’s many Oscar-worthy performances have made him one of the industry’s most sought-after actors, and he also has a few titles lined up for the 2025 movie schedule. Meanwhile, Lopez is looking towards the eventual release of the latest adaptation of Kiss of the Spider Woman. You love to see stars thriving but also encouraging each along the way.

Unfortunately, In Living Color isn’t available to stream, as of this writing. However, those looking to see JLo’s latest film should check out Unstoppable when it opens in limited theaters on December 6. The movie will then become available to stream with a Prime Video subscription on January 6.

Jamie Foxx has, for the most part, been largely absent from the spotlight since suffering a mysterious health scare back in April 2023, though he did return to host Beat Shazam after having Nick Cannon as replacement. Fans are waiting for his feature film return Back in Action to hit the Netflix’s 2025 premiere schedule, but first we’ll see the comedy star strutting his stuff on stage for the streaming stand-up special What Had Happened Was.

Foxx shared a teaser for the upcoming special on Instagram, which doesn’t feature any footage or joke-telling, and doesn’t even fully showcase the comedian himself on the stage. But that didn’t stop friends, fans and followers from chiming in with lots of loving support, with Oscar winner Halle Berry as a stand-out amongst the comments. Check out her message and his reply in the sweet exchange below:

• Halle Berry: ♥️ U J....always will!
• Jamie Foxx: @halleberry love u back real tears

As awesome as it will be to see Jamie Foxx sharing the screen Cameron Diaz in her return to acting following a lengthy retirement phase, how great would it be to see him and Halle Berry on screen together? She led the twisty 2024 horror Never Let Go after co-starring with Mark Wahlberg in the Netflix action comedy The Union, and has upcoming projects with Angelina Jolie and Chris Hemsworth on the way.

But maybe there will be time for a team-up before much longer. Not that Foxx is lacking in upcoming projects himself, but I’m staying optimistic for the sake of on-screen duo chemistry.

Other Celebrities Also Shared The Love For Jamie Foxx's New Special

Halle Berry is obviously worthy of singling out here, but she’s far from the only familiar face to have spoken out in support of What Had Happened Was. Below is as assortment of other actors, rappers, and celebrities who popped up in the comment section with positive words and/or emojis.

• Kel Mitchell: Looking forward to it! Can’t wait!
• Cedric The Entertainer: 🐐 @iamjamiefoxx is one of one🔥🔥🔥🔥
• Oscar De La Hoya: I’m always in your corner, always 🔥
• Darren Carter: God Bless you Jamie!!! 🤜🤛
• J Young MDK: The BIG 🐐 🔥🔥🔥🔥 let’s goooo
• Page Kennedy: Can not wait
• Melba Moore: @iamjamiefoxx. You are loved ❤️ Congratulations🙌
• Mario Lopez: 🔥🔥🔥

Gotta love all the good-natured vibes that have surrounded Jamie Foxx during the long stretch since he initially had to step back from the spotlight due to his health scare. It's a topic he's set to speak on at length in the new special, and we can't wait to see the hilarity play out.

Check out the preview below via Foxx's IG post.

Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was is set to debut for fans with Netflix subscriptions starting on Tuesday, December 10. Check out everything that’s still coming later this month with our 2024 Netflix schedule.

The year is winding down and, as a result, a number of cinephiles may be thinking about what lies ahead on the 2025 movie schedule. Early in the year, they can expect to see a Netflix production by the name of Back in Action, which is co-headlined by Jamie Foxx. And joining the Oscar winner is Cameron Diaz, as she came out of retirement to star alongside her buddy in the action flick. The first trailer for the film dropped last week and, since then, fans have been reacting, with many expressing delight over seeing Diaz on their screens again.

Back in Action’s trailer teased a madcap adventure filled with thrills, chills and humor. So far, the fresh batch of footage has received some solid buzz and, as it stands, Netflix’s official posting on YouTube has received over two million views. In addition, more than a few fans have taken to the comment section to weigh in on the upcoming blockbuster. Admirers also reacted on Instagram and, if you look at the sentiments, you’ll find that people are especially pumped to see the Charlie’s Angels icon in the mix. Check out what one user said:

This may be hard to believe, but it’s been over a decade since Cameron Diaz last starred in a film. Her last credit was the 2014 Annie remake. So you can probably understand why people are so eager to see the star, well… back in action, and you may even feel the same way. Just recently, Diaz explained that she retired because she felt a true need to step away from business in order to “reclaim [her] own life.” Hopefully, she had enough time to do just that before signing on for this new movie. Another admirer took to IG and said the following:

Of course, what’s also appealing about the production is the notion of seeing the Mask icon paired up with Jamie Foxx, who she last worked with on Annie. Fans seem excited for the duo to share the screen, and the prospect is truly special when you consider the fact that Foxx’s medical emergency occurred amid production on the movie. When discussing the duo being together again, someone said:

Back in Action centers around two former CIA operatives who must come out of retirement due to their identities being discovered. Joining the two aforementioned stars in the film are Glenn Close, Andrew Scott and Kyle Chandler. Even though it’s certainly been a while since the Bad Teacher star has been in the game, fans seem confident that she’ll slide back in smoothly. One other person welcomed her with a sweet sentiment that I think best sums up this entire development:

Those who are already eager to see more of Ms. Diaz after Back in Action should know that she already has a few other gigs lined up. For starters, she’ll reprise her role as the butt-kicking Princess Fiona in the long-awaited Shrek 5. Also, Diaz is working with Keanu Reeves on a dark comedy film called Outcome. So it would seem that the actress has truly gotten back on the horse, so to speak. But, for now, let’s just continue to be thankful that she’s making her return via this new action flick first.

Netflix subscription holders can check out Back in Action when it debuts on January 17, 2025. In the meantime, do yourself a favor and seek out some of Cameron Diaz’s best movies.

I don’t know which is approaching faster: the beginning of us seeing upcoming 2025 movies in front of our eyes, or the holiday season? It kinda doesn’t matter, as the two things go hand in hand, and Netflix’s first trailer for Back in Action kind of feels like an early present we’re able to open.

Now that the long awaited Jamie Foxx/Cameron Diaz action-comedy has given us a first look at its plot, and all the fun it entails, I think it’s safe to say that this picture looks like it’s worth the wait. To be fair, I have to admit that I may be just a bit biased, as espionage flavored stories are my jam.

So seeing the story of Emily (Cameron Diaz) and Matt (Jamie Foxx) being forced back into the spy game, after presumably retiring to start a family, feels like it’s working in my wheelhouse. Cue the sorts of stunts, explosions, and humor you’d expect from a picture like Back in Action, and you’ve got one of the best reasons Ms. Diaz’s came out of retirement.

One big matter we need to address right out of the gate is the fact that this picture was finished in the wake of Jamie Foxx’s early 2023 hospitalization. The high profile event occurred in the middle of Back in Action’s production, and Foxx’s recovery story has been one of the sweetest comebacks to witness in real time.

Seeing the Academy Award winner kicking ass and cracking wise with Cameron Diaz feels like a reward to everyone who’s followed his career, and it’s nice to see both of these Hollywood A-listers making that title really work. Believe it or not, this weekend was initialy supposed to be the big day for director Seth Gordon’s blockbuster.

That being said, it wasn't surprising to see Back in Action delayed into 2025 by its home studio. As Red One is about to make its box office debut in that old release date of November 15th, it would have put Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz against Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans. To be totally truthful, I’d rather see them join forces than compete, because how fun would that movie be?

And if you're not totally sold on the bonkers nature of Back in Action, then please consider the following press still of a duct taped Glenn Close dual wielding pistols:

January is always the beginning of a new year, which see the conflicting forces of fresh optimism and longing for the holiday season past fighting it out in our heads. Which only circles us back around to the notion that having a picture like Back in Action to look forward to in that symbolically dreary month feels like a gift.

Sadly, the tag on this present has us waiting for Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz suit up for espionage, only on Netflix, starting January 17th, 2025. In the meantime, be sure to keep that Netflix subscription active if you want to get in on the action; and don’t forget that the 2024 movie schedule still has some heavy hitters waiting for an audience!

Spider-Man: No Way Home is nearing its third anniversary, which is wild. It feels like yesterday that fans were over analyzing trailers and listening to Andrew Garfield denying his involvement. While many of us surely have fond memories from seeing the massive threequel in theaters, others who were involved with the project surely have sweet anecdotes. Makeup artist Vasilios Tanis does, as he spoke to CinemaBlend about hanging out with the three Peter Parker actors and enjoying Jamie Foxx’s party vibes. (Oh, to have been a fly on the wall.)

Vasilios Tanis took some time to speak with me in promotion of his latest Marvel Cinematic Universe endeavor – the well-reviewed Agatha All Along. Considering his work within the massive franchise, I couldn’t help but ask about his time on the set of the box office hit No Way Home. Tanis was very enthusiastic when recalling his experiences with director Jon Watts’ third Spidey film. Given his personal fandom, the experience was truly unforgettable for him:

The Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania artist is certainly living out fans’ dreams, in that he’s now able to contribute to comic book-related productions as a longtime superhero devotee. It’s tempting to merely feel jealous, but I’m happy for the seasoned makeup artist. Also, I totally understand just how he’d be so overwhelmed while on the set, as I’d probably be the same way. He did, after all, get to rub shoulders with various actors like Tom Holland, Tobey Maguire and Alfred Molina. Mr. Tanis went on to gush about being in their presence:

All of that sounds cool enough, but then you have to consider that the enthusiastic Jamie Foxx was also in the mix. The actor reprised his role as Max Dillon/Electro in the film and was quite enthusiastic about that in the lead-up to its release (so much so that he spoiled his involvement early on). When it comes to Foxx’s on-set energy, Vasilios Tanis suggested that the Oscar winner helped cultivate a party-like atmosphere, and his account of events sounds awesome:

Seriously, is anyone surprised to hear that Jamie Foxx knows how to have a good time? I tell you, I would’ve been downright elated to have been on set and taking all of that in. Alas, I’ll just have to live vicariously through the memories shared by the WandaVision makeup artist. Spider-Man: No Way Home is truly a special film, and I love hearing that the cast and crew had as much fun making it as many of us had watching it.

You can buy or rent Spider-Man: No Way Home’s Extended Version on Amazon Prime Video now. Also, be sure to stream Agatha All Along as well as the Marvel movies in order using a Disney+ subscription.

For the last several weeks when celebrities and parties have come up in the same sentence, it’s been a discussion of the parties thrown by Sean “Diddy” Combs that are the subject of a federal indictment against the rapper and mogul. Considering all of that, it's extra sweet to hear about Leonardo DiCaprio’s 50th birthday party, which looks to have been quite the shindig. And it apparently had a guest list that would make the Governor’s Ball at the Academy Awards blush, as it truly featured a murderer's row of celebrities.

Leonardo DiCaprio turns 50 years old today, November 11, but he held his party over the weekend. The guest list was shared by deuxmoi on Instagram, and it's absolutely staggering. From DiCaprio’s fellow stars from his generation to some of the great directors that he's has worked with (and those he almost collaborated with), the guest list included:

• Brad Pitt & Ines de Ramon
• Mark Ruffalo
• Benicio del Toro
• Soleil Moon Frye
• Todd Phillips
• Kevin Connolly & Zulay Henao
• Chris Rock
• Jamie Foxx
• Guillermo del Toro
• Paris Hilton
• Lukas Haas
• Steven Spielberg
• Bill Maher
• Casey Affleck
• Emile Hirsch
• Katy Perry & Orlando Bloom
• Cara Delevingne
• Tobey Maguire
• Robin Thicke & April Love Geary
• Odell Beckham Jr.
• Teyana Taylor
• Edward Norton
• Chuck Lidell
• Dr. Dre

There may have been even more stars in attendance, but this list alone is truly a who’s who of Hollywood. Being there had to be an incredible experience. Leonardo DiCaprio's father and stepmother were the only non-celebrities reported to be in attendance. It must have been a pretty amazing night for them, I'd think.

A few of these names are potentially surprising, but it’s very interesting to see who the Wolf of Wall Street star decided to invite to the event. He and Edward Norton have been friends for a long time. The same goes for DiCaprio and Tobey Maguire, who were part of the same real-life poker game that inspired the movie Molly’s Game.

It's also great that Leonardo DiCaprio invited his Catch Me If You Can director Steven Spielberg. The same goes for Guillermo del Toro, who almost directed DiCaprio, as he was originally attached to star in Nightmare Alley before he had to drop out and was replaced by Bradley Cooper. I would have loved to have seen those two meet up at the party. If there’s a chance they could work together down the road that’s a very exciting prospect that they probably talked about.

DiCaprio’s One Upon A Time…In Hollywood co-star Brad Pitt -- along with his serious girlfriend, Ines de Ramon, -- was there, as was his Shutter Island co-star Mark Ruffalo. The Revenant star also invited a couple of people who it looks like he may have gotten to know in his role as a producer. DiCaprio produced Out of the Furnace, which included Casey Affleck in its cast. He also produced Kid 90, the documentary film directed by former Punky Brewster star Soleil Moon Frye.

Needless to say, certainly looks like Leonardo DiCaprio’s birthday party was the hottest ticket in town. Now I just need to figure out how to become his friend before next year.

Two of the biggest celebrity news stories of the last year have been the serious health scare that Jamie Foxx faced in 2023, and the arrest of Sean “Diddy” Combs on charges of racketeering and sex trafficking earlier this month. There are many questions still surrounding both cases, but now things just took a very strange turn as it’s being suggested the two cases could actually be linked.

Details are sketchy, and in some cases contradictory, but it’s being claimed that Jamie Foxx himself is the one establishing the connection, as part of statements he’s allegedly made while recording a new comedy special.

What Jamie Foxx Reportedly Said About Diddy

From October 4-6, Jamie Foxx recorded three shows in Atlanta that will be edited together into a new comedy special for Netflix called What Had Happened Was. Videographer and Producer Choke No Joke says he attended two of the three shows, the first and last. In a video from Comedy Hype, he claims Foxx admitted to being the one to call the FBI on Diddy, and that the rapper is the one who caused his health issues. Choke No Joke explained…

Needless to say, this is quite the bombshell claim if it turns out to be true. Earlier this year Diddy's home was raided by federal authorities. He's now awaiting trial on federal charges related to alleged sex parties he held where women were forced or coerced into performing sex acts. The details regarding how Diddy ended up on the radar of the feds is unknown at this time.

The claim, according to those who say they heard it, and multiple people who attended the same tapings claim it was said, is that Foxx was somehow poisoned by Diddy, which led to his medical emergency on a film set in 2023. While this was a comedy show, and some people reportedly started laughing at what Foxx said, it’s being indicated this wasn’t meant as a joke by Foxx.

Not Everybody Is Claiming Jamie Foxx Said The Same Thing

It should be pointed out that only some people who attended the tapings are reporting the same thing. Page Six spoke to somebody who attended the second and third tapings who claimed that Foxx specifically denied that Diddy had anything to do with what happened to him. It's possible that things were misconstrued or that all of this was just some sort of joke.

While Foxx's medical issues were clearly severe, it's still unknown exactly what happened to him. It's rumored Foxx had a stroke, which would be consistent with the medical attention and rehabilitation he received, but while the actor has spoken about what he went through emotionally, he's never revealed exactly what happened to him physically.

At this point, it seems we’ll just have to wait until the Netflix special arrives to see exactly what is included in it. And that assumes that whatever Foxx said about the situation is even part of the final cut. It’s possible that these particular comments could end up edited from the show. The Netflix special What Had Happened Was doesn’t have a release date yet. However, we do know that Back in Action, the movie Foxx was filming with Cameron Diaz when he had his health scare, will be released by Netflix in January.

Cameron Diaz’s first film in a decade, Back In Action, is among the projects on Netflix's 2024 movie schedule that has fans super excited. However, in recent months, marketing for the action comedy flick, which will have her paired with Jamie Foxx, has seriously slowed down. Reportedly, this is because Netflix is planning on delaying the movie’s release.

Back In Action Has Major Competition During Its Release Day

Back In Action has been in the can since early last year, so what’s the hold-up? According to What’s On Netflix, the movie may be in for a two-month release delay. The film was previously announced as part of the 2024 movie schedule, with a release date of November 15. However, the report suggests that it could be pushed back to January 17, 2025, instead.

While Netflix would not comment on the possible delay when the publication asked, there are a few releases on the calendar already for the streaming service that could suggest the move as well.

For one, the highly anticipated Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson live boxing match is now taking place live on that date (after Tyson previously had to delay it from July due to a health emergency), with Netflix streaming the event exclusively. Additionally, the second part of Cobra Kai Season 6 will premiere that day as well. So, folks with Netflix subscriptions will have a lot of new content to watch already.

Therefore, it's understandable why Netflix might be thinking about spreading some of its content out by delaying Back in Action.

Jamie Foxx Has Been Recovering From A Health Scare

Another potential factor to keep in mind is that Jamie Foxx has been on the mend from a health scare that occurred in April 2023. If he is going to promote Back In Action with Cameron Diaz, he’s going to perhaps be ready to give some of the first interviews since the medical complication. Understandably, he might want to wait for the dust to settle on his health before stepping in front of cameras to promote the project.

Jamie Foxx barely spoke about the medical emergency for the first time a month ago, and he recently settled back to work by returning to Beat Shazam in the spring.

Foxx appeared to be his healthy self during the Fox program, so Back To Action’s potential delay probably has nothing to do with this, but there’s certainly no harm in the actor taking it slow if he needs to. Additionally, Foxx has been promoting a new whiskey business, BSB Whiskey, so perhaps his attention lies there at the moment.

The fact of the matter is that sometimes Netflix just decides to switch up their release dates, because things come up and it could perform better if it's delayed. Cameron Diaz has previously said she “had a blast” working with Jamie Foxx on the action movie, so we certainly can’t wait to see it. We’ll keep you posted here on CinemaBlend as updates come in.

Kevin Hart has amassed a lot of celebrity friends throughout his time as a Hollywood A-lister. Considering the connections that he’s made, he typically takes time out to wish his famous pals well on their birthdays and does that in fun ways. (Hart’s insult-laced tribute to Dwyane “The Rock” Johnson a few years ago was particularly funny.) Now, the comedian is getting a bit of that love back, as Will Smith wished him well on his b-day this weekend. The two ultimately shared a sweet exchange, and fellow actor Jamie Foxx popped in with a suggestion that honestly sounds fun.

The Hancock star posted a birthday message for his buddy this past Saturday, on which the Jumanji alum turned 45. Will Smith celebrated the occasion by sharing a video of an encounter between him and Kevin Hart. In the clip, one can see the two entertainers getting into a humorous debate about sweaters. Smith also included a funny caption, and you can see the post in its entirety: 

I guess you really can’t underestimate the power of a good sweater. But, seriously, this is a great tribute from the Oscar winner, who’s known for shouting out his friends on their birthdays. What’s particularly special about this tribute is that he and the Lift star share something in common. As mentioned in the clip, they’re both Philadelphia natives and are indeed proud of where they come from. The Think Like a Man star referenced that link when commenting on the post himself: 

Honestly, it’s hard not to appreciate that kind of love between two friends, and what I love even more is one another buddy jumps in to share even more sweet thoughts. Jamie Foxx, who’s been settling in to work again following his medical emergency last year, sent Kevin Hart love as well. He also tagged Will Smith and made a proposal that sounds cool: 

A guys’ trip to France? That honestly sounds like a move, if you ask me. It’s honestly kind of funny to think of these three sitting in the City of Lights and chopping it up while wearing fancy sweaters. But, then again, I’d imagine that to be a pretty epic trip filled with plenty of laughs. Of course, the key to making such an overseas excursion happen would be for the three megastars to carve time out of their busy schedules. 

Will Smith has two movies on the way. Smith is starring in the thriller film Sugar Bandits, which was written by The Town’s Chuck Hogan. And, following Bad Boys: Ride or Die’s box office success, Smith lined up another gig in the form of science fiction flick Resistor. Meanwhile, Kevin Hart is looking towards the release of upcoming video game film Borderlands, which releases later this summer amid the 2024 movie schedule. It’s likely that Hart will be doing quite a bit of press for that blockbuster. Additionally, Jamie Foxx will surely be promoting Netflix’s Back in Action later this year and is still holding down hosting duties on the game show Beat Shazam. 

Despite all of their professional obligations, I’d imagine that this trio could find some time to get together. Here’s hoping that Kevin Hart had a great birthday and that he, Will Smith and Jamie Foxx do eventually take that trip to Paris or to another location. If anything, I’d just love to see the photos and hear the stories that would come out of such a vacation.

Jamie Foxx is an acclaimed multitalent that has been a public figure for decades now. As such, his generations of fans were concerned when Foxx was hospitalized under mysterious circumstances in the midst of filming Back in Action (which will be released for those with a Netflix subscription). Jamie Foxx recently got real about when his medical emergency started, and the first symptom he experienced. He was even quoted saying "I was gone for 20 Days". 

The details of Jamie Foxx's medical situation are largely being kept private, but it sounded like it was quite serious at the time. While Foxx returned to work, fans are still curious about what exactly happened. In a video on Twitter, the actor/singer opened up about how it went down. In his words: 

How horrifying is that? It must have been terrifying for Foxx to suddenly wake up in the hospital, after simply asking for an over the counter medication for his headache. While fans were already invested and praying for the 56 year-old star, he clearly didn't know what was going on until 20 days into his hospitalization. 

During his health crisis, Netflix tried to continue filming Back in Action with a stunt double, at least whenever possible. I have to assume that the movie will be doubly popular when its released, given how the public has followed the project. Cameron Diaz praised Foxx's work in the project, which brought the actress out of retirement. Later in that same Twitter video, the Dreamgirls actor referenced whatever went wrong medically, saying:

That certainly sounds serious, although Jamie Foxx understandably didn't want to give his medical details out to the world, especially with folks taking video. While celebrity can make one's personal life into a public manner, Foxx has maintained some privacy regarding the details of his medical scare. And it certainly seems like he's on the mend nowadays. 

It should be interesting to see what comes next in Foxx's career after this medical scare. Foxx seemingly hinted at a return to stand-up, which might be a great way for him to work through his medical issues with humor. 

Foxx is attached to a number of film projects, including Back in Action. For now, check out the 2025 movie release dates to plan your trips to the theater next year. 

2023 was a bit of a whirlwind for the Foxx family, as Jamie was hospitalized after suffering an undisclosed medical emergency. Thankfully though, the actor has since recovered and has something exciting to look forward to. His beloved daughter, Corinne, is engaged and is in the process of planning for her nuptials. The media personality recently shared some details on her fiancé. In doing so, she opened up about just how her beau managed to earn the approval of her famous father. And, quite frankly, the young man deserves some credit for the way he proved himself to be a “keeper.”

30-year-old Corinne Foxx is set to walk down the aisle with Joe Hooten, and the two seem excited over the prospect of exchanging vows. Of course, it was inevitable that the groom would have to win over his father-in-law at some point. I can’t imagine the prospect of having to somehow get into the good graces of an Oscar winner. But, as Corinne explained to ET, her partner managed to do that in stunning fashion. The situation in question happened during a family vacation:

Talk about making a serious impression! The co-host of Beat Shazam didn’t specify whether this happened before or after Joe Hooten got down on one knee. Regardless, it sounds like her relatives, including her beloved father, were all impressed. I’d imagine that not many people can say that they saved their girlfriend or fiancé’s family. So I’d say he’s more than proven that he’ll be a protector when called upon. 

Corinne Foxx and Joe Hooten confirmed their engagement back in December 2023. While it’s unknown exactly when the two started dating, a profile piece in Page Six notes that they first became acquainted in 2018 at the University of Southern California. The 47 Meters Down: Uncaged alum announced the engagement in an Instagram post, which you can see below:

That big news was a sweet capper to what had been an unpredictable year for the star, her father and their family. Jamie Foxx was hospitalized in April 2023 while filming Netflix’s Back in Action and, at the time, his family confirmed the news though didn’t get into specifics. Speculation surrounding his condition subsequently ran rampant and, all the while, Corinne provided hopeful updates. Jamie eventually opened up about the medical incident that July, confirming he was OK and, since then, he’s seemingly been easing back into his usual routine. Sources previously alleged that Foxx was settling back into work just fine, and Corinne provided some glowing sentiments in that regard during her interview:

So it would seem that the beloved actor will be ready to walk his daughter down the aisle, which is a prospect Corinne Foxx joked about with ET. I’m happy for the family as she, Jamie and their family prepare to celebrate her impending marriage. And I’m also glad that Joe Hooten not only earned his future father-in-law’s approval but also that he saved his prospective family members during that trip.

Those eager to see Jamie Foxx doing what he does best should grab a Netflix subscription so that they can stream Back in Action when it drops on the stream this coming November 15. You can also find information about other big releases by checking out the 2024 movie schedule.

Maybe I’m a masochist, but I’ve seen a lot of movies about slavery.

Harriet, Emancipation (pre-Bad Boys: Ride or Die Will Smith), Beloved, and of course, the Academy Award-winning 12 Years a Slave are all movies that I’ve sat through, and, if I’m being completely honest, suffered through. 

However, do you want to know my all-time favorite movie on the topic of slavery? It’s 2012’s Django Unchained, which we once ranked as one of the greatest westerns of all time. Sure, it may be considered one of Tarantino’s lesser films in his legendary filmography, but I have to tell you. As a Black man who has seen his fair share of movies where Black people get beaten to a bloody pulp, Django Unchained is definitely my favorite. Here’s why.  

Most Slave Movies, While Important, Depress Me 

Don’t get me wrong. I’m well aware of the importance of slave dramas. Similar to stories about the Holocaust, or movies about the horrors that Indigenous people had/have to go through, slave dramas showcase the lowest depths of depravity from humankind. 

And yet, knowing this, I still choose to watch them. Of course, I’m viewing them from a historical perspective, and I’m not watching them for entertainment purposes. I mean, how could I enjoy them when they’re the kind of films that, when they’re over, I dab my eyes, and then go to the bathroom, solemnly.

Not so with Django Unchained, though. With this movie, I was practically punching the air, and mouthing, “Good,” whenever Django would shoot a slave owner, or blow up a plantation mansion. 

Because, try as I might, I just can’t “see the good” in everybody. For instance, you know that famous scene in Gone With the Wind where Scarlett O’Hara goes to the site of the Battle of Atlanta and witnesses all those injuries? Well, I know that scene is supposed to evoke sympathy from the audience, but, as a Black man, I have no sympathy whatsoever. Because I view the Confederacy very differently than white people from the south likely view it. For me, the Confederacy represents the fight to uphold slavery. 

And, it’s for that purpose that Django Unchained is so cathartic for me. Because sometimes, I don’t want a movie that explores race or social justice. Sometimes, all I want is satisfying escapism, and this is the purest example for me.  

I'll Never Forget The Audience I Originally Saw The Movie With 

I remember when I saw Black Panther in theaters on opening weekend. There were definitely people of every race who came out to see it, as Black Panther was a cultural phenomenon. 

But, there were overwhelmingly more Black people in the audience than any other race, as I saw whole families, from young children (maybe even too young, since I saw some babies in the audience), to the elderly. It was a touchstone moment for me, as just like when it came to voting for Obama, we Black people came out in droves for that movie. 

That said, as much as I liked the film, it was a pretty safe movie. I mean, how could it not be, as it’s from the MCU? So, while there was all that talk of colonialism, and the idea that maybe Kilmonger was right (which cements him as one of the greatest Black villains of all time), there really wasn’t anything “dangerous” about the movie. 

However, Django felt a bit different when I saw it, and I’ll never forget the audience that I saw it with. It was actually Christmas Day 2012, and I wanted to get away from my family, as they were slumbering after their Christmas lunch. So, I went to the movies, and I wasn’t alone, because there were hella Black people in the audience. 

Since this was a Tarantino movie, there were also plenty of white people. But, much like with Black Panther, it was an overwhelmingly Black crowd. The thing is, there were several moments when I could tell that some of the white people in attendance were very uncomfortable, and this is where I could feel some empathy for them, since I know what it feels like to be uncomfortable in a crowd. 

That said, the whole audience, both Black and white, were cheering when Schultz (played by the Academy Award-winning Christoph Waltz) killed Leonardo DiCaprio’s character, as well as when Django blew up Candyland, and rode off with Broomhilda. It was a great experience, and one that I will never forget. 

I Also Love How This Story Turns The White Savior Trope On Its Head 

It’s a fact that Black people never would have escaped the horrors of slavery without the brave white abolitionists who saw the evils of the trade, and wanted to get rid of it. So, in a lot of ways, the Schultz character could have been seen as a white savior, since he’s the one who gets Django his freedom. 

However, it’s not like Schultz is freeing Django out of the goodness of his heart. Instead, Schultz needs Django’s help in locating a bounty, and he is freeing him (and even giving him $75 to boot) for his help in locating the Brittle Brothers. 

And, I absolutely love this! Tarantino is such a good storyteller, and I’m sure he knew that if Schulz rescued Django just for the sake of rescuing him, then it would be seen as a white savior story, which definitely wasn’t what Tarantino was aiming for. 

What we end up with instead is a story about a Black man working with a white man for the benefit of the both of them. Schultz gets key information, and also a partner, and Django learns to better himself under Schultz’s tutelage and guidance. As somebody who is a firm believer in the benefits of diversity, this story really resonates with me. It sucked that Schultz had to die, but it made for a great revenge story, since Django wasn’t Schultz’s property. He was his partner, which I adore. 

And It Actually Has A Happy Ending! 

Lastly, the one thing I really detest about slave dramas is that almost all of them have depressing endings. This makes sense, since most stories involving slavery did end horribly. At best, we’ll get a separated family that is finally brought back together again, but that’s usually not the case, and we end up with something dark and horrific. 

But, yet again, that’s not the case here, as not only does Django exact his revenge against those who’ve wronged him, but he also gets his wife back. This is in line with Tarantino’s other historical dramas, like Inglorious Basterds, where both Hitler and Goebbels die in a satisfying way, and like Once Upon a Time…In Hollywood, in which Sharon Tate doesn’t get brutally murdered. 

Yes, some might see these revisionist histories as being a little tasteless. Hitler didn’t satisfyingly die in a movie theater in real life. Sharon Tate, unfortunately, didn’t get to live, and Django would most definitely eventually have been caught, and hanged from a tree to be made an example of. 

However, I love that we don’t get that ending. We get a happy ending, which makes this one of the most satisfying conclusions to any movie that I’ve ever seen. Because this could have ended badly for him, and it didn’t. I remember smiling by the end of it all, which really is quite something. Because I can’t think of a single other slave drama where I’ve left the theater smiling. 

What do you think? Did you also love Django Unchained as much as I did?   

Sony has a summer hit on its hands with Bad Boys: Ride Or Die. The action comedy that reunites Will Smith and Martin Lawrence’s Miami cops just had a great opening weekend at the box office, and now celebrities like LeBron James and Jamie Foxx are going out of their way to show support for one of the latest of the 2024 movies!

While Ride Or Die left critics split, the fourth Bad Boys movie has been tracking really well with moviegoers, with audiences rating it an A- on Cinemascore, for example. As it turns out, NBA legend LeBron James is one of the vocal fans of the movie too. As he wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter):

James made the comment on his social media in the light of the news that Ride Or Die made an impressive $104.6 million worldwide over the weekend, making it one of the most successful movies of the year already! Smith reposted the praise on his Instagram, adding the “🙏🏾” in reaction. Additionally, Jamie Foxx took some time to share a good word about the Bad Boys sequel on his own Instagram post while also sharing the successful numbers. Here’s what he wrote:

Smith and Foxx are friends in real life! Previously, Foxx supported his buddy when Smith released Emancipation by going to an early screening and hyping up the film as well. In the comment section, Smith penned this in response:

Will Smith has been doing the most as of late to get the word out for the newest Bad Boys movie, between going viral for surprising fans at a screening, to traveling all over the world to promote it as well. Martin Lawrence also reacted to Foxx’s kind words by saying this:

The Bad Boys movie looks like it will do pretty well for itself this weekend too amidst Pixar set to have the “biggest opening of the year” with Inside Out 2’s release, per Variety. The projections report the movie will still pull $28 million this weekend despite Inside Out 2 tracking at around $80 to $90 million.

For those hoping to see more Will Smith and perhaps even a fifth Bad Boys movie, the success of Ride Or Die is a great sign. Following the actor’s controversial Oscars slap back in 2022, it wasn’t clear if audiences would show up for the actor, but the masses are proving to say they are ready and happy to see Smith back in action again! He has too many real “ride or dies” to have a Bad Boys sequel go up and flop!

There are a lot of reasons that a young actor may change their name. Sometimes it's as simple as just wanting a cool new name. Often it's because someone is already in the union was using the actor's real name and they have to adjust. Here's a list of some of Hollywood's biggest stars and their real names. 

Ben Kingsley (Krishna Pandit Bhanji)

The great Ben Kingsley won an Oscar for his role in the great biopic Gandhi. It makes sense he would play the Indian freedom fighter, as Kingsley himself is Indian. Born to an Indian father and an English mother, Kingsley grew up in England and while his father was a practicing Shia Muslim, Kinglsey is not and considers himself a Quaker. He changed his name for that oh-so-common reason, that he feared a foreign-sounding name would hurt his career. 

Whoopi Goldberg (Caryn Elaine Johnson)

The story is both hilarious and heartfelt. She was born Caryn Elaine Johnson in New York, but when she started acting, she was accused of being flatulent, so Whoopi "short for whoopee cushion." Her surname came from a Jewish ancestor, Goldberg, so she could celebrate the diversity in her family line. 

Judy Garland (Frances Ethel Gumm)

Judy Garland first started in show business as a singer with her sisters, going by their names, The Gumm Sisters. After they were billed as the "Glum Sisters" for a show, it was suggested they change their name. Judy Gumm took her mother's maiden name, Garland, and the rest is history. 

Martin Sheen (Ramon Gerard Estevez)

Martin Sheen's real name is Ramon Gerard Estevez, but he changed it when he broke into the business for the same reason so many others have made the decision, to be less ethnic, as early in his career they said he looked Irish. One of his sons, Charlie Sheen, chose to use the same screen name, but one of his other sons, Emilio Estevez, chose to use his given name. Sheen's daughter, Renée Estevez, an occasional cast member of The West Wing with her father, also stuck with the family name. 

Vin Diesel (Mark Sinclair)

Vin Diesel took on that name after being born Mark Sinclair when he worked as a bouncer as he tried to break into show business. "Vin" comes from his adoptive surname, Vincent, and Diesel came simply because he wanted a cool name as a bouncer. 

Miley Cyrus (Destiny Hope Cyrus)

Though she was born Destiny Hope Cyrus, Miley Cyrus decided to go by the moniker she's best known as because that was simply what her family called her growing up. Her nickname in the family was originally "Smiley" which was eventually shortened to Miley. Her first couple of professional acting gigs, in the TV show Doc and the Tim Burton movie Big Fish, she was billed by her real name, Destiny Cyrus. 

Cary Grant (Archibald Alec Leach)

Early in his Vaudeville career, the great Cary Grant used his real name, Archibald Leach. When he got to Hollywood, as is so often the case, the studio didn't think the name wasn't "box office" enough, so he changed it to Cary Grant. 

Natalie Portman (Natalie Hershlag)

Natalie Portman's real name is Natalie Hershlag, but unlike so many others, she didn't change it because the name was "too ethnic" or not generic enough. As she explained to Vanity Fair in 2024, it was because she wanted to create a separate identity for her work and personal life. 

Portia De Rossi (Amanda Lee Rogers)

Portia de Rossi's name change came, at least originally, because she simply wanted a more exotic-sounding name when she started acting in her teens. Her given name, Amanda Lee Rogers, was just bland. She later revealed it may have been in part because she was struggling with her sexual identity as well. After marrying Ellen Degeneres in 2008, she changed it again, this time combining her real and stage names, Portia Lee James DeGeneres. Professionally she is still Portia de Rossi though. 

Joaquin Phoenix (Joaquin Rafael Bottom)

The Phoenix family has a fascinating history, one that includes time in the cult Children of God. When the family left that group, they made a collective decision to change their last name to one of rebirth, and Joaquin Rafael Bottom became Joaquin Phoenix.

Jamie Foxx (Eric Marlon Bishop)

Born Eric Marlon Bishop in 1967, Jamie Foxx took his stage name early when he was a standup. He says that he noticed women often got preferential spots during open mics, so he decided he wanted a more androgynous name, choosing Jamie. For his last name, he picked it as a tribute to his favorite comedian, Redd Foxx. 

John Wayne (Marion Robert Morrison)

It was a lot more common back in the day for actors to adopt cooler-sounding stage names and that was pretty much the case for Marion Robert Morrison, who ended up John Wayne. It's easy to see why he did it, whether it was a good idea or not. It worked for him. 

Tom Cruise (Thomas Cruise Mapother IV)

Top Gun: Maverick star Tom Cruise didn't change much, but it was a meaningful change. His real name at birth was Thomas Cruise Mapother IV, obviously named after his father, hence the suffix. Cruise had a very difficult relationship with his dad, so when he began his career, he dropped the Mapother in part to distance himself from his then-estranged father. The two later reunited when his father was on his deathbed. 

Olivia Wilde (Olivia Cockburn)

Actor and director Olivia Wilde's story about why she changed her name is pretty simple. She decided she wanted to stage name, and at the time was acting in Oscar Wilde's play The Importance of Being Earnest, which she loved. So she went with Wilde as a homage to the legendary playwright. 

Meg Ryan (Margaret Mary Emily Anne Hyra)

It's pretty easy to see why Meg Ryan chose to simplify her name when she started acting. Margaret Mary Emily Anne Hyra sure is a mouthful, so cutting a 25-letter name down to a seven-letter one makes sense. Meg is short for Margaret and Ryan is the maiden name of maternal grandmother. 

Kirk Douglas (Issur Danielovitch)

In another example of early Hollywood stars fearing their given names would hold them back for sounding too ethnic, Kirk Douglas changed his name from Issur Danielovitch. He told People it was because he feared it would hold him back and it sounded "too Semitic." 

Mahershala Ali (Mahershalalhashbaz Gilmore)

Like others on this list, it's easy to see why Mahershala Ali changed his name from Mahershalalhashbaz Gilmore. Not only is Mahershalalhashbaz really hard to spell and pronounce, but the Green Book actor also converted to Islam as a teenager, taking Mahershala Ali as his Muslim name. 

Marilyn Monroe (Norma Jeane Mortenson)

One of the most famous name changes in Hollywood history is Norma Jeane Mortensen changing her name to Marilyn Monroe. There is no big story behind it, it simply was a snazzier name and Monroe was her mother's maiden name. 

Michael Keaton (Michael Douglas)

This one is easy to understand. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice star Michael Keaton's real name is Michael Douglas. Obviously with an actor already in the union (Romancing The Stone star Michael Douglas), Keaton had to come up with a new name for billing. He chose the last name out of respect for early Hollywood star Buster Keaton. 

Michael Caine (Maurice Joseph Micklewhite)

If you think Maurice Micklewhite is a bit of a mouthful, you're not alone. English legend Michael Caine thought so too. In 2016, he legally changed his name from Micklewhite to Caine, because, according to the Batman Begins actor says it caused too much confusion at airports. 

Winona Ryder (Winona Laura Horowitz)

This one is a little in dispute - though not really. Charlie Sheen once claimed he gave Winona Horowitz her new name, Ryder, after listening to The Doors song "Riders on the Storm." Ryder says she got it when her father asked if she wanted a stage name while they were listening to Mitch Ryder. 

Demi Moore (Demetria Gene Guynes)

The story of Demi Moore's stage name (changed from Demetria Guynes) is both mundane and unique. Before she started appearing in acting roles, Moore married musician Freddy Moore when she was 18. So while Moore was her married name, it was a new name, just as her career was taking off. Demi is simply short for Demetria. 

Dove Cameron (Chloe Celeste Hosterman)

Dove Cameron has never explained why she chose Cameron as her stage name, but her reason for choosing Dove is bittersweet. Dove was her father's nickname for her and after he took his own life, she decided she wanted to go by that, in tribute to him. 

Cher (Cherilyn Sarkisian)

It takes a lot of gall and a lot of talent to decide you're going to go with a one-name moniker, and Cher has oodles of both. It's not hard to see what she did, she simply shortened her first name, Cherilyn, and dropped her last. 

Olivia Colman (Sarah Caroline Colman)

Like others on this list, Olivia Colman couldn't join the actors union with her birth name, Sarah Colman, so she changed it. As she explained in 2013, Colman chose Olivia because it is one of her best friends from college's name and she loved it. 

Carmen Electra (Tara Leigh Patrick)

There aren't many people who can claim the legendary Prince gave them their name, but Carmen Electra can. Way back at the start of her career, when she was working with the Purple One, he decided Tara wasn't good enough and named her Carmen. In 2023, Tara Leigh Patrick officially changed her legal name to Carmen Electra, because who wouldn't?

Lily James (Lily Chloe Ninette Thomson)

Like others here, Lily James renamed herself in honor of her late father, James. Though Thomson was also her father's name, of course, she wanted to do more, deciding taking on the stage name "James" to do so. 

Nicolas Cage (Nicolas Kim Coppola)

Nicolas Cage's first movie role was basically just a background character in Fast Times At Ridgemont High. He is billed in the credits by his legal name, Nicolas Coppola, and yeah, it's that Coppola. While on the set of Fast Times, his co-stars would endlessly quote his famous uncle's (Francis Ford Coppola) movies. He decided then and there he needed to distance himself from his famous family (Talia Shire is his aunt, and Sophia Coppola and Jason Schwartzman are cousins).

Julianne Moore (Julie Anne Smith)

Julie Smith is a pretty common name, and when the great Julieanne Moore hit Hollywood, she soon discovered the name was already taken in the union. She tried different combinations, but they were all spoken for. In the end, she combined her first and middle names, and took her father's name, Moore, as her surname. It's like having to go through dozens of combos to find the right vanity plate, but in the end, it's hard to imagine the actor with any other name. 

Mindy Kaling (Vera Mindy Chokalingam)

It seems Hollywood is still getting people to change their names if they or people around them fear a real name is too complicated or foreign. Indian actor and writer Mindy Kaling is a recent example when she simplified her name from Vera Mindy Chokalingam to Mindy Kaling. 

David Tennant (David John McDonald)

Former Dr. Who and Jessica Jones star David Tennant has a tried and true story as well, his real name, David McDonald, was taken. He explained some years ago on James Corden's show, where he also explained that he chose "Tennant" because he saw the name from a music magazine in an article about Neil Tennant of The Pet Shop Boys. 

Chevy Chase (Cornelius Crane Chase)

Chevy Chase comes from a very blood-blue family who can trace their roots in America back to the Mayflower. Cornelius Crane Chase, the Vacation star's real name, reflects this perfectly. The reason he goes by "Chevy" is because his grandmother started calling him that when he was a kid. So, not much of a story here, but he's real name is just so posh, that we had to include it here. 

Helen Mirren (Helen Lydia Mironoff)

Like others, this one is just a technicality. Helen Mirren was born Helen Lydia Mironoff in London to an English mother and a Russian father. When Mirren was 10 years old, her father anglicized the family name to "Mirren." 

Last April, it was reported that Jamie Foxx had been hospitalized over a “medical complication” that led to the actor taking some time off from his movie Back in Action and his Fox game show Beat Shazam. Now, as Foxx gets ready to resume hosting duties on Beat Shazam alongside his daughter, we have an update on how he is reportedly doing one year after the health scare. 

Over the past year, Jamie Foxx has chosen to keep the details of his health private, however, the actor will reportedly get into the story in depth during an upcoming stand-up comedy special. According to a new report, here’s how Jamie Foxx is currently settling into getting back into work: 

The update comes via People as we also anticipate the actor to star in numerous 2024 movies, including Back in Action. As the source continued: 

Although Jamie Foxx took some time away from work due to his medical complication, he was far from the only actor who was not on movie and TV sets in 2023. From July 14 to November 9, SAG-AFTRA was on strike over labor disputes and it left Hollywood at a historic standstill. Now, things are back up and running, and Foxx is back in good health. 

We do know that Jamie Foxx returned to the set of his upcoming Netflix movie with Cameron Diaz, Back In Action, earlier this year ahead of the movie coming out sometime in 2024. The film will reportedly be about a pair of CIA agents who get sucked back into the world of espionage when their cover is blown. Allegedly, the production tried to use a stunt double for Foxx amidst his medical complication but it “didn’t come out right.” So, they waited until he was healed to finish his photography. 

When Cameron Diaz spoke about working alongside Jamie Foxx on Back In Action, she debunked rumors that he had on-set outbursts saying that the actor is a “cheerleader for the entire crew” and “so much fun” to work with. Along with Back In Action, Jamie Foxx is also set to star in the comedy Not Another Church Movie, which is coming out on April 19, and an action thriller co-starring Robert De Niro called Tin Soldier. 

Jamie Foxx and Corinne Foxx’s return to Beat Shazam has already been added to the 2024 TV schedule, with both of them coming back as hosts starting May 28. 

Plenty of fans likely know that Jamie Foxx made his Hollywood breakthrough by making millions of viewers laugh weekly as part of Fox's In Living Color cast. Aside from that though, he also made a name for himself as a stand-up comedian. It's been years since Foxx has taken to the stage to perform a major special, as he's been busy with other endeavors. Now, the Oscar winner has seemingly hinted that he's making a return to stand-up and did so by posting a throwback clip to one of his routines. And it's a great reminder to me and others of just how great he is at the craft.

Following his days on In Living Color, Jamie Foxx toured regularly in the 1990s and 2000s, giving performances that blended his comedic and musical chops. In the process, he produced some acclaimed comedy TV specials. What's arguably become his most well-known outing is the 2002 HBO special I Might Need Security, which spawned some of his most popular bits. As the Hollywood A-lister makes his post-health scare Hollywood comeback, he posted the finale of his HBO TV offering to his Instagram account. Check out the hilarious footage and the A-lister's tease about possibly returning to the stage:

When looking at this clip, I can't help but note how much of a true Renaissance man the star is among others in Hollywood. As far as comedians go, few could think up a comedy bit about Prince singing the Brady Bunch theme song. To put it simply, it's nothing short of brilliant. In short, this clip encapsulates all of the Ray star's abilities – singing, piano-playing and impersonating celebrities. 

As a longtime fan of the game show host, I can definitely say that I miss seeing Jamie Foxx in his full comedic moment. Viewers get peeks here and there of his stand-up prowess through his hosting gigs. However, the clip above illustrates just how much he is needed in a polarized comedy space. Hopefully, once his busy movie schedule clears up, he'll do a full stand-up set live. Foxx has seemingly been doing well in recent months and made his first post-health scare appearance near the end of 2023. As he continues to get back into the groove of things career-wise, I'd hope that Foxx truly does consider returning to his roots.

Upon its release, I Might Need Security caught much attention, as it was filled with unrestrained jokes aimed at those famous and not. Before earning his Oscar and headlining blockbuster movies, the Spider-Man: No Way Home actor was ruthless and raw in performing his stand-up routine. (And, as a result, he made a few enemies in the entertainment space.) His comedic skills are still utilized in his various movies and even some commercials he does. But there's nothing like see him on stage in front of a mic giving his humorous take on the world we live in. Here's hoping that stand-up comeback is legit and happens soon.

Before Jamie Foxx can return to the stage, he has multiple upcoming movies arriving in 2024, including the adventure comedy Back in Action. Foxx returned to the set after his health scare, to finish his work on the flick alongside co-star Cameron Diaz. after the film tried using a stunt double to finish everything up. The movie will be available through a Netflix subscription to stream later this year.

For lack of a better phrase, Jamie Foxx is back in action, and he’s returned to working on his project on the 2024 movie schedule, Back in Action. However, before he was able to return to set with Cameron Diaz, the film tried to shoot his parts with a stunt double first. Ultimately, they ended up needing to wait for the Oscar winner to come back to fully finish production. 

So, while the Back in Action cast and crew wrap up this highly anticipated new Netflix film, here’s the story behind how the project tried to keep working, and why they ended up waiting to film Foxx’s parts until he was healthy enough to come back. 

They Tried To Get Back To Work With A Stunt Double Instead Of Jamie Foxx

After Jamie Foxx was hospitalized for a “medical complication” back in April, it was reported that his projects Back in Action and Beat Shazam would continue filming without him. While Nick Cannon and Kelly Osbourne took over Beat Shazam, on Foxx’s action film they tried to have his stunt double stand in for him. 

According to a new report from People, this plan to have the actor’s double stand in his place reportedly didn’t work, as they said:

So, it sounds like they ended up having to wait until Foxx was healed to finish up his principal photography. Now they’re able to do that, because in late January the Ray actor returned to work with Cameron Diaz after his health scare. Reportedly, now that they’re literally back in action, things are going well and they’re working toward wrapping up the film. 

Now, Jamie Foxx Is Literally Back In Action And Working On The Film With Cameron Diaz  

While Foxx’s health scare was reportedly very serious, and he said he “wouldn’t wish what I went through on my worst enemy” in his first public appearance, now, he’s doing quite well. Not only is Jamie Foxx back at work, he’s apparently feeling great, as a source told the magazine:

They went on to say that “he is doing so well,” and that he was ready to start filming again. Noting that the Baby Driver star was “eager” to get back on set, the source said:

They ended their statement noting that Foxx loves acting, and he will complete his work:

As the source stated, filming is expected to wrap up in February. They’ve been shooting this project since December of 2022, however, between the Actor’s Strike and Foxx’s health scare, they faced some uncontrollable and serious challenges. 

Luckily, Foxx and the crew are back up and running, and hopefully, we’ll see Back and Action sometime during 2024. Netflix did include it in the year’s preview of content (which you can see above), so while there is no specific release date, you can expect it this year. 

It’s great to hear that Jamie Foxx is doing well, and he’s back at work with Cameron Diaz. Now, it’s just a matter of time before we get to use our Netflix subscriptions see him Back in Action.

There may not be another movie on the 2024 movie schedule with as meta of a title as Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz's forthcoming action comedy, Back in Action. It's the first movie Diaz has starred in since retiring in 2014, and it now marks the first time the Ray actor has been back to work since suffering an on-set “medical complication.” Said situation led to their movie’s production being shut down last April. Now, the two talented actors are back on set, ready to bring their dynamic chemistry to the screen in what promises to be an exhilarating cinematic experience.

How Do We Know The Two Stars Are Back On Set?

The details of Jamie Foxx's recent health issues were kept private, leading to speculation and conspiracy theories online. Now, we have prooff that the star has returned to work on his upcoming Netflix release alongside his co-star. Recent photos published by Page Six show the actors in good spirits, walking together outside.

There has been a lot of chatter about the Django Unchained star's health. However, in December, he appeared in public for the first time since facing health challenges, doing so at the Critics Choice Association's Celebration of Cinema & Television. During the event, he accepted the Vanguard Award and openly shared that his recent ordeal was not something he would wish upon "his worst enemy."

Many Rumors Have Swirled Around This Production

The on-screen pairing of Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz has been much anticipated. Their previous collaborations in films like Any Given Sunday and Annie showcased their remarkable on-screen chemistry and left a lasting impression. So it's not surprising that many are excited that Back in Action has brought Diaz out of retirement. With that, she and Foxx will hopefully reignite the magic that has made them a fan-favorite duo on the big screen.

In 2023, there were rumors about alleged on-set outbursts from the They Cloned Tyrone star. In March 2023, The Sun reported that the Soul actor had a significant breakdown on set, which resulted in the termination of four production team members, according to an unnamed source. The insider also mentioned that some crew members were dissatisfied and that the Dreamgirls alum's popularity took a hit. This supposed incident occurred just weeks before he was hospitalized due to a previously mentioned undisclosed medical emergency, requiring the use of body doubles to complete his remaining scenes.

However, the rumors may have been exaggerated because the Mask actress spoke about reteaming with Jamie's Foxx, saying that working with him has been a blast and that she loves him. This is excellent news, because I cannot wait to see the two together on screen again.

Back In Action Seems To Be In A Good Place Now

Following the mystery surrounding the leading man's undisclosed production-halting illness, it's great to see that the comedy action film is now back on track. The talented cast, which includes renowned actress Glenn Close, continued filming after Jamie Foxx's recovery. It's also still a miracle that the film was able to land Cameron Diaz in the first place, given the uncertainty she had about returning to work. We can't say for sure how the experience has been for the two leads since they've been in production again, but they appear to be enjoying each other's company.

Per the few details we have on the movie, it's about a woman who has been retired for six years returns smarter and stronger than ever. Although we have little information about the movie, this short description adds another layer of meaning to the already fitting meta title. Indeed, this movie could not have been given a better name. I'm excited to see what's ahead and remain happy that the Strays actor is back to doing what he does best.

You can see Cameron Diaz and Jamie Foxx in action again when their movie is released on streaming later this year. All you need is a Netflix subscription. 

How many times have you watched an incredible acting performance and looked up to see how many awards it won only to find out that the Oscar went to someone else that year? It’s shocking how many times this has happened over the years for some of the greatest actors and actresses of all time. Here are 32 times an incredible performance didn’t win an Academy Award for one reason or another.

Samuel L. Jackson (Pulp Fiction)

Though he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Jules Winnfield in Pulp Fiction, Samuel L. Jackson’s name wasn’t called at the 67th Academy Awards. This is nothing against Martin Landau’s performance from Ed Wood, but Jackson’s foul-mouthed and righteous hitman is an all-time great character that should have been recognized.

Robert De Niro (Taxi Driver)

Robert De Niro received an Oscar nomination for his career-defining portrayal of Travis Bickle in Martin Scorsese’s 1977 psychological thriller, Taxi Driver, but the unhinged and memorable performance wasn’t enough to win Best Actor. It’s hard to be mad, as Peter Finch’s Academy Award-winning turn in Network is the stuff of legend.

Harrison Ford (Witness)

One of the best actors without an Oscar, Harrison Ford has only one Academy Award nomination to his name, the 1985 crime thriller, Witness. Though not Ford’s most iconic character, his take on Philadelphia detective John Book as he goes to great lengths to protect a young boy is nothing short of amazing.

Morgan Freeman (The Shawshank Redemption)

Morgan Freeman gave the performance of a lifetime as Ellis Boyd “Red” Redding in The Shawshank Redemption. If the movie would have come out any other time besides 1994, a year dominated by Forrest Gump, there’s a good chance the aging prisoner and accomplished smuggler would have earned Freeman an Oscar.

Bill Murray (Lost In Translation)

Bill Murray’s portrayal of cynical, washed-up actor Bob Harris in Lost in Translation will forever be one of the comedian’s most beloved roles. While Sean Penn’s performance in Mystic River is more than deserving of an Oscar, it’s a shame the iconic comedian didn’t get properly recognized for a once-in-a-decade showing.

Whoopi Goldberg (The Color Purple)

Whoopi Goldberg showed off a more dramatic side with her lauded portrayal of Celie Harris-Johnson in Steven Spielberg’s 1985 adaptation of The Color Purple. It’s absurd that the emotional, dynamic, and powerful performance didn’t win Goldberg a much-deserved Oscar, which went to Geraldine Page in The Trip to Bountiful, instead.

Ralph Fiennes (Schindler's List)

Schindler’s List features one of the best Ralph Fiennes performances with his portrayal of Nazi work camp commandant Amon Goeth in Steven Spielberg’s 1993-defining film. And while the movie won seven Oscars, including Best Picture, Fiennes’ unforgettable turn was not among them. Instead, he lost out to Tommy Lee Jones from The Fugitive.

Dustin Hoffman (Tootsie)

If you’re looking for one of the best New York City movies, Tootsie has you covered. If you’re looking for a movie featuring an acting performance that should have won an Oscar but didn’t, Sydney Pollack’s 1982 comedy has you covered there as well. Seriously, how Dustin Hoffman’s portrayal of Michael Dorsey wasn't awarded is something we just don’t get.

Denzel Washington (Malcolm X)

Denzel Washington eventually won a Best Actor Oscar for his unforgettable turn in Training Day, but the actor was robbed nearly a decade earlier after not winning the big prize for his take on the titular Civil Rights leader in Spike Lee’s Malcolm X.

Florence Pugh (Little Women)

Florence Pugh was already a rising star at the time of Little Women’s release, but her portrayal of Amy March in Greta Gerwig’s coming-of-age drama took her to new heights. Though she was nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Oscars, Pugh lost out to Laura Dern from Marriage Story.

Jamie Foxx (Django Unchained)

Here’s something wild to think about – Jamie Foxx not only didn’t win an Oscar for his performance in Django Unchained, he wasn’t even nominated for Best Actor. Admittedly, it was a stacked list of actors – Daniel Day-Lewis, Bradley Cooper, Hugh Jackman, Joaquin Phoenix, and Denzel Washington – but not even being named is just something.

Mickey Rourke (The Wrestler)

The Wrestler felt like Mickey Rourke’s big redemption arc, more so than the character he portrayed in Darren Aronofsky’s great wrestling movie. Despite pushing himself to the breaking point from both a physical and emotional standpoint, Rourke lost out to Sean Penn’s take on Harvey Milk in Milk.

Michael Keaton (Birdman)

Michael Keaton gave the performance of a lifetime in the 2014 mind-bending drama film, Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), one that seemed to channel the actor’s past in such a way it felt like an autobiography. However, stealing the show as Riggan Thomson, a.k.a., Birdman, wasn’t enough, as the prize went to The Theory of Everything’s Eddie Redmayne instead.

Saoirse Ronan (Lady Bird)

Saoirse Ronan has been nominated for an Oscar on four separate occasions, but not a single win, which is something. One of the performances that deserved an Academy Award the most was that of Christine "Lady Bird" McPherson in Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird. The portrayal of a confused high school senior on the verge of entering the next stage in her life lost out to Frances McDormand in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.

Tim Curry (Clue)

Tim Curry’s portrayal of Wadsworth in Clue, a butler or undercover FBI agent depending on which ending you watch, is a role that is beloved by fans of the classic murder mystery comedy. However, it wasn’t recognized at the Academy Awards or other ceremonies, which is the real crime.

Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl)

Rosamund Pike’s take on Amy Elliott-Dunne earned the sole Academy Award nomination for David Fincher’s Gone Girl, a nod that was more than deserved. However, the incredibly nuanced and dynamic performance failed to win the Best Actress Oscar, which went to Still Alice’s Julianne Moore instead.

Jimmy Stewart (Rear Window)

Jimmy Stewart is one of Hollywood’s most iconic actors of all time and his portrayal of L. B. "Jeff" Jefferies in Alfred Hitchcock’s Rear Window is one of the his top-tier performances. However, his take on an injured photographer who uncovers a murder mystery didn’t even get a nod at the Academy Awards.

Kate Winslet (Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind)

Kate Winslet gave one of her most powerful and unique performances in the 2004 sci-fi dramedy, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Her take on Clementine Kruczynski, a woman who had all memories of her ex-boyfriend wiped from her brain, was rich, beautiful, and iconic, but just wasn’t enough to win Best Actress.

Al Pacino (The Godfather)

Al Pacino put himself on the map with his portrayal of reluctant crime boss Michael Corleone in The Godfather. The gradual evolution of the character over the course of the film’s three-hour runtime should have been enough for an Oscar, but like co-stars James Caan and Robert Duvall, who were also nominated for Best Supporting Actor, he didn’t get the win.

Gloria Swanson (Sunset Boulevard)

Gloria Swanson’s "All right, Mr. DeMille, I'm ready for my close-up." line from Sunset Boulevard is one of the most iconic quotes in all of Hollywood and part of an Oscar-worthy performance. While Swanson was nominated for her take on aging film star Norma Desmond, she didn’t take home the top prize.

Jack Nicholson (The Shining)

Though considered one of Jack Nicholson’s best roles, his portrayal of Jack Torrance in The Shining didn’t result in an Oscar win. In fact, Nicholson wasn’t even nominated for the unforgettable performance. 

John Cazale (The Godfather Part II)

John Cazale’s Fredo Corleone in The Godfather Part II is one of cinema’s great tragic figures as well as one of the late actor’s best characters. What’s even more of a travesty is the fact that the late actor didn’t even receive an Oscar nomination for his efforts. Tragically, Cazale would never receive an Academy Award nomination prior to his shocking death in 1978.

Angela Bassett (What's Love Got To Do With It?)

Angela Bassett received her first Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Tina Turner in What’s Love Go to Do with It?, but the miraculous turn as one of American music’s most famous and influential figures didn’t earn her a Best Actress win. 

Edward Norton (American History X)

Reformed neo-Nazi Derek Vinyard is one of Edward Norton’s most controversial and complex characters of his career, and the American History X performance earned him a Best Actor nod at the 71st Academy Awards. However, Roberto Benigni from Life Is Beautiful ran away with the top acting prize.

Ingrid Bergman (Casablanca)

Somehow, Ingrid Bergman, who was astonishing as Ilsa Lund in Casablanca, not only didn’t win Best Actress at the 16th Academy Awards, she wasn’t even nominated for her iconic portrayal of a woman caught between two men and two different lives in the 1943 black-and-white classic.

Paul Giamatti (Sideways)

In a perfect world, Paul Giamatti would have won the Oscar for Best Actor in Alexander Payne’s Sideways, but alas, that is not the reality in which we live. Miles Raymond is one of Giamiatti’s best characters and carried the movie about two friends on a wine trip they’ll never forget.

Henry Fonda (12 Angry Men)

An amazing courtroom drama, 12 Angry Men is still arguably one of the best movies of all time. While its star, Henry Fonda, received a Best Picture nomination as a producer, his dynamic and rich portrayal of a juror who insisted on getting things right didn’t earn him an acting nod, which is a real miscarriage of justice.

John Goodman (The Big Lebowski)

You can add John Goodman to the list of great actors who have never received an Oscar nomination, which just doesn’t make sense. It’s especially maddening when you consider his legendary portrayal of Walter Sobchak in The Big Lebowski, a character loosely based on John Milius, per Far Out Magazine.

Joaquin Phoenix (Walk The Line)

Joaquin Phoenix has since won an Oscar, but his portrayal of Johnny Cash in James Mangold’s 2005 biographical drama, Walk the Line, was more than deserving of the top acting prize at the Academy Awards. What’s interesting is the fact that Phoenix was beat by his future The Master co-star, the late Philip Seymour Hoffman, who won for his take on Truman Capote in Bennett Miller’s Capote.

Ellen Burstyn (Requiem For A Dream)

A little more 25 years after winning an Academy Award for Best Actress thanks to her outstanding performance in Martin Scorsese’s Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, Ellen Burstyn had another shot at capturing an Oscar with her turn as Sara Goldfarb in Requiem for a Dream. Her take on a woman battling unchecked depression, anxiety, and a diet of weight loss pills gave audiences one of the most incredible and sympathetic characters of the early 21st century. Unfortunately, this also happened to be the same year Erin Brockovich was released. 

Paul Dano (There Will Be Blood)

There Will Be Blood is remembered more than a half-decade after its release because of the Academy Award-winning performance by Daniel Day-Lewis, but one of the three-time Oscar winner’s castmates was also deserving of recognition. Paul Dano’s Eli Sunday (he also played the smaller part of Eli’s twin brother, Paul) is one of the more fascinating characters of modern cinema, and he should have received an Oscar for his troubles. Dynamic is an understatement for this overzealous, petty, and temperamental preacher.

Robert Shaw (Jaws)

Steven Spielberg’s 1975 summer blockbuster, Jaws, won three Academy Awards – Best Filming Editing, Best Original Dramatic Score, and Best Sound – but Robert Shaw, who acted his tail off as the boat captain, Quint, wasn’t recognized. This shameful act by the Academy, especially after watching the USS Indianapolis monologue, still stings nearly 50 years after the fact. That scene alone deserved a Best Supporting Actor nomination and win.

Many of these actors won an Academy Award either before or after these movies and performances we just covered, but it’s just wild to think about how some of these roles didn’t take home the big prize at the Oscars.