Jennifer Lopez, Jharrel Jerome recalls life-changing advice from Jamie Foxx

Jharrel Jerome still doesn’t know how Jamie Foxx got his phone number, but he’ll never forget the call.

Shortly after Jerome’s breakout role in Moonlight, which won the Oscar for Best Picture in 2017, he began receiving mixed reactions at industry events.

During an interview with Jennifer Lopez for Entertainment Weekly’s Reel Wisdom video series, Jerome shared, “I was getting a certain look from people, whether it was too much love or hate.”

Amid the growing attention, Foxx, an Oscar winner for his portrayal of Ray Charles in Ray, reached out to Jerome unexpectedly.

As per the publication, the veteran actor offered some calming advice to the rising star as Jerome recalled, “He just told me to breathe,” still in disbelief over the call.

Moreover, he continued by saying, “I can't remember exactly what he said, but he said the word 'breathe' while I’m on this balcony, and I’m freaking out because Jamie Foxx is on the phone.”

According to the outlet, the Unstoppable star, visibly moved by Jerome’s story, shared her own history with Foxx.

In regards to this, she revealed that he had helped her early in her career during her time on In Living Color as she stated, “If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have made it through that season, We became really good friends, and we’re still friends to this day.” while explaining how Foxx’s support kept her from moving back to New York during a difficult period.

Additionally, Jerome, who stars alongside Lopez in the upcoming film Unstoppable, was left astounded by the connection between Lopez and Foxx.

Furthermore, the film tells the true story of NCAA champion wrestler Anthony Robles, who overcame immense challenges, including an abusive stepfather, to achieve greatness.

During the interview, Jerome also opened up about developing “a bit of body dysmorphia” during his career, and Lopez shared valuable acting advice she received from Jack Nicholson while filming Blood and Wine, along with lessons learned from her lowest career moments.