Jamie Foxx paid an emotional tribute to the late Quincy Jones at the Governors Awards just two weeks after the legendary musician’s passing.
The seven-time Oscar nominee, who died on Nov. 3 at age 91 from pancreatic cancer, was posthumously honoured with an Academy Award for his extraordinary contributions to music and cinema. Foxx, a longtime friend of Jones, accepted the award on his behalf and delivered a heartfelt speech celebrating the icon’s lasting impact.
“Tonight we pay tribute to him for the creativity and the brilliance he brought to cinema,” Foxx, 56, said, emphasising the breadth of Jones’ influence.
Jones’ influence extended far beyond the music industry, leaving a lasting mark on those who knew him, including Foxx. The actor recalled how Jones played a pivotal role in helping him prepare for his Oscar-winning portrayal of Ray Charles in 2004 by sharing a cassette tape of a young Charles, an act that shaped Foxx’s iconic performance.
Foxx also shared the personal impact Jones had on his family, particularly his late sister, DeOndra Dixon, who was born with Down syndrome. Jones’ advocacy for the condition led to the creation of the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award, which Dixon received posthumously as its first honoree, something Foxx said he would be “forever grateful” for.
Foxx ended his emotional tribute by saying, “The impact he has will never be forgotten,” praising Jones for his music, his light, and his example as a great human being. “Thank you for giving the world music. Thank you for giving the world light,” Foxx concluded.
