At the 2025 BET Awards held on June 9 in Hollywood, Jamie Foxx was presented with the coveted Ultimate Icon Award by none other than his close friend Stevie Wonder, highlighting the enduring Jamie Foxx and Stevie Wonder BET Awards friendship. Their heartfelt exchange captivated the audience, shining a light on years of mutual respect and artistic collaboration in the entertainment world.
Jamie Foxx, a renowned actor and musician, has built meaningful relationships with influential figures throughout his career. Yet, his deep bond with legendary musician Stevie Wonder holds a unique place in his heart, a sentiment that played out in an unforgettable moment on stage as Stevie honored Jamie for his achievements in music and acting.
A Legacy of Support and Shared Moments
Jamie Foxx’s journey in entertainment took off during the third season of the iconic sketch series In Living Color. After years of stand-up and hustling for his big break, Jamie finally found fame on the small screen, all while nurturing his love for music. In 1994, during the show’s final season, he released his first album, Peep This, though it did not achieve commercial success. Undeterred, Jamie continued to perform music, often making appearances around town while starring in The Jamie Foxx Show.
This persistence and passion for music made an impression on Stevie Wonder, who would later recount his first time encountering Jamie’s musical talent in a truly personal way during the awards presentation. Stevie delivered a moving tribute, sharing his admiration for Jamie’s versatility and generosity.
“I remember seeing you the first time at a club, playing piano and singing, but I knew from the moment I heard you sing that you had so much more,”
Stevie said, per Billboard. —Stevie Wonder, Musician
“I admire and celebrate your talent and your love — for blind people. I’m very happy to be here tonight to see you honored as you so very well deserve. Without further ado, here is my friend, a great legend of great talent award and the recipient of the BET Ultimate Icon Award — my friend Mr. Jamie Foxx.”
—Stevie Wonder, Musician
Their artistic paths have often overlapped. Jamie Foxx has frequently covered Stevie Wonder’s classics onstage, performing songs like Lately, Isn’t She Lovely, and Ribbon in the Sky, even showcasing his playful impersonation of the legendary musician. The duo also joined forces at the 2011 Oprah Winfrey Farewell Spectacular, joining other A-listers as they paid tribute to Oprah and celebrated her legacy.
Jamie’s Honest and Emotional Acceptance Speech
Receiving the BET Ultimate Icon Award from Stevie Wonder was a deeply emotional experience for Jamie Foxx, who gave an impassioned speech reflecting on the events of his life, including a life-threatening health crisis in 2023. Through tears, Jamie expressed gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose.
“I don’t know why I went through what I went through, but I know my second chance, I’m not gon’ turn down. I have so much love to give,”
he said. —Jamie Foxx, Actor and Musician
Jamie continued, sharing his commitment to give back and remain true to his roots.
“And I promised, whatever reason you put this on me, I promise imma do right and imma do right in front of y’all,”
Jamie continued.
“I know a lot of times when we get on, we forget about where we come from. When I did my special, it was in front of Black people. Black people was the ones who said, ‘I got you.’”
—Jamie Foxx, Actor and Musician
With vulnerability, Jamie expressed appreciation for those who supported him during his recovery.
“I want to thank everyone who was there for me,”
he said.
“When I watched the ‘In Memoriam’ segment earlier tonight, I couldn’t help but think how close I came. You don’t go through something like that and come out the same.”
—Jamie Foxx, Actor and Musician
Jamie also underscored the importance of the award’s source, expressing heartfelt gratitude.
“Thank you to BET for this wonderful award,”
Jamie added.
“I say this all the time, but thank you to Black people and the Black award,”
Jamie said.
“People think the Oscars is the biggest thing … but the Icon Award is the most important award because it’s the award that comes from us.”
—Jamie Foxx, Actor and Musician
The Impact of an Iconic Friendship
The powerful connection between Jamie Foxx and Stevie Wonder is rooted not only in music and artistry but in years of support, mentorship, and genuine affection. Both have used their platforms to uplift others and support causes close to their hearts, regularly inspiring audiences and peers alike.
Their appearance at the BET Awards served as a reminder of the value of friendship and support among artists, and how these bonds can shape and elevate careers. For fans and the wider entertainment industry, the shared moment between Jamie Foxx and Stevie Wonder is a testament to staying true to one‘s roots and cherishing the relationships that endure through decades of change.
As Jamie Foxx continues to carve his path forward, his friendship with Stevie Wonder will likely remain a guiding force, reminding everyone of the power in unity, resilience, and love within the entertainment community.
