How Jamie Foxx Convinced Cameron Diaz to Come Back to Acting

After stepping away from Hollywood for a decade, Cameron Diaz is back in action—literally. The beloved actress, known for her roles in films like “There’s Something About Mary” and “Charlie’s Angels,” had been enjoying a quiet life away from the spotlight. But thanks to her longtime friend and co-star Jamie Foxx, Diaz has made a grand return to acting.

A 10-Year Retirement

In 2014, Diaz decided to walk away from acting. She had been a Hollywood staple for over two decades, starring in a variety of films that ranged from romantic comedies to action-packed blockbusters. At the time, she felt it was the right decision. She wanted to focus on her personal life, including her marriage to musician Benji Madden and starting a family. During her break, she also launched Avaline, a successful organic wine brand.

Diaz has spoken about how stepping away from acting allowed her to live life on her own terms. “I had 10 years of not paying attention to anything,” she said. She enjoyed her time off, focusing on raising her children and embracing a slower pace of life. Hollywood seemed like a thing of the past—until Jamie Foxx stepped in.

Jamie Foxx’s Persuasive Charm

Foxx and Diaz have a long history together, having co-starred in the 1999 sports drama “Any Given Sunday,” which The Quick Report named as one of the greatest football movies ever made. They later reunited in 2014 for the remake of “Annie.” Their friendship remained strong even during Diaz’s time away from the screen.

When Foxx approached Diaz about starring alongside him in Netflix’s action-comedy “Back in Action,” she was hesitant, People reports. But Foxx’s enthusiasm and persistence won her over. “If I was going to leave my family for 10 hours a day, I wanted to do it with the most talented man in the entertainment business,” Diaz explained.

A Career Full of Iconic Roles

Diaz’s return to acting is exciting news for fans who have missed her presence on screen. Over the years, she has played some of the most memorable roles in modern film history. From the hilarious and quirky Mary in “There’s Something About Mary” to the fierce and fearless Natalie in “Charlie’s Angels,” Diaz has always brought charm and energy to her roles. She also tested her range with dramatic performances in films like “Gangs of New York” and “Vanilla Sky.”

What’s Next for Diaz?

While Diaz is thrilled to be back, she remains uncertain about her future in Hollywood. She has made it clear that she values her family life above all else and reserves the right to step away again if needed. For now, though, fans are celebrating her return and eager to see her shine alongside Foxx once more. Diaz may have been away for a decade, but it’s clear that Hollywood—and her fans—never stopped waiting for her.

Read More: 10 Hollywood Actors Who Are Famously Great to Work With

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