JAMIE FOXX (Max) is enjoying success in a multi-faceted career that already encompasses dramatic roles in films and television, as well as stand-up comedy and music. Though previously best known for his comedy work, his emergence as a leading dramatic actor is evidenced in his most recent and upcoming roles. He next stars as the late legendary blues musician Ray Charles in the biopic “Ray,” directed by Taylor Hackford, which is due out this fall. The movie chronicles Ray Charles’ struggles through poverty, blindness, racism and drug addiction, as he rose to become a music icon. In addition, he is set to star in the action thriller “Stealth,” for director Rob Cohen, which is slated for release in 2005.
Foxx most recently received critical acclaim for his portrayal of gang member-turned-Nobel Peace Prize nominee Stan “Tookie” Williams in the cable movie “Redemption.” He also starred opposite Gabrielle Union in the urban romantic comedy film “Breakin’ All the Rules.”
Foxx first came to fame as a popular stand-up comedian and comedy actor. During the early 1990s, he was a regular on the comedy series “In Living Color,” alongside Keenan Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans and Jim Carrey. He also had a recurring role on the series “Roc,” and guest starred on several other shows.
In 1996, he launched his own series, “The Jamie Foxx Show,” which became one of the top-rated shows on the WB network. Foxx not only co-created and starred on the show, but also served as an executive producer and directed several episodes. During the show’s five-year run, Foxx won an NAACP Image Award and earned three more nominations for Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series.
On the big screen, Foxx received praise from both critics and audiences for his performance as a breakout star quarterback in Oliver Stone’s 1999 football-themed drama “Any Given Sunday,” in which he joined an ensemble cast that also included Al Pacino, Cameron Diaz and LL Cool J. In addition to his onscreen role in the movie, Foxx wrote, produced and performed two songs featured on the film’s soundtrack, including the title track and the chant “My Name is Willie.”
He went on to co-star with Will Smith in the 2001 biopic “Ali,” which marked Foxx’s first collaboration with director Michael Mann. His portrayal of Muhammad Ali’s corner man and constant inspiration, Drew “Bundini” Brown, brought Foxx another Image Award, this time for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture. His additional film credits include “Bait,” “The Truth About Cats and Dogs” and “The Great White Hype.”
In 2002, Foxx brought down the house in his first HBO comedy special, “Jamie Foxx: I Might Need Some Security.” He also has the distinction of hosting the top-rated “Saturday Night Live” of the 2001-02 season.
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