Additional Coverage:
- Viewers floored as Stevie Wonder pays loving tribute to pal Jamie Foxx at BET Awards (themirror.com)
Music legend Stevie Wonder made a surprise appearance at the 2025 BET Awards on Monday night, bringing the audience to its feet as he helped honor Jamie Foxx with the Ultimate Icon Award. The surprise guest, teased earlier in the evening, led a heartfelt tribute to his longtime friend.
“I remember seeing you at a club, playing piano and singing, and I knew right then you had something more,” a smiling Wonder recalled. He drew laughs by adding, “I admire and celebrate your talent and your love, especially for blind people,” before concluding, “It’s an honor to be here to see you get the recognition you truly deserve.”
The tribute showcased highlights from Foxx’s impressive career. Babyface and Ludacris teamed up for a performance of Foxx’s 2005 hit “Unpredictable.”
R&B artist Tank then delivered a moving rendition of “Night Time Is the Right Time,” a nod to Foxx’s Oscar-winning portrayal of Ray Charles. Jennifer Hudson wowed the crowd with her soulful take on “Gold Digger,” Foxx’s 2005 collaboration with Ye.
T-Pain and Doug E. Fresh brought the musical celebration to a close with an energetic performance of Foxx’s party anthem “Blame It.”
Throughout the performances, a visibly moved Foxx, seated front and center, clapped and smiled.
Taking the stage, Foxx reflected on his recent health scare, referencing the 2023 medical emergency that had fans holding their breath. “I want to thank everyone who was there for me,” he shared.
“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.”
He closed with a powerful message of gratitude: “A career like this, that’s nothing but God. I’m blessed to be standing here tonight.”
The emotional tribute brought the audience to their feet, marking one of the most memorable moments of the evening.