Credited from: USATODAY
Key Takeaways:
After a decade-long hiatus from Hollywood, Cameron Diaz is back on the big screen in the new Netflix action-comedy "Back in Action," with Jamie Foxx serving as her premier cheerleader. The film, released on Netflix, features the duo as former spies whose lives are disrupted as they attempt to navigate parenthood and their pasts.
Diaz, who last graced the silver screen in 2014 with "Annie," expressed in an interview that although she enjoyed her time in the industry, it was necessary for her to step back and prioritize her family. "I had been acting for a couple of decades, and I felt like I had done it," she remarked, emphasizing the importance of family in her life's journey. The actress ultimately agreed to return to acting largely because of Foxx's involvement, stating, "If I'm leaving my family for 10 hours out of the day, it really matters who I'm doing it with" ([HuffPost](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/cameron-diaz-jamie-foxx_n_678aa725e4b097ab56977a0f)).
Foxx couldn't contain his enthusiasm regarding Diaz's return to film. He reminisced about his excitement while on set, stating, "It was great to see Cameron back," while noting his role in rallying the crew around her return. He humorously referred to himself as just her "bodyguard," highlighting the notion that Diaz was indeed the star of the project ([USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2025/01/17/cameron-diaz-jamie-foxx-back-in-action/77720423007/)).
The director, Seth Gordon, noted Diaz's seamless transition back into acting, comparing her return to "muscle memory." Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and Foxx's health scare—which included a hospitalization due to a stroke—filming resumed and showcased both actors adapting to their roles with remarkable ease.
Foxx's unexpected health issues posed complications during production. However, he managed to return to set, and his camaraderie with Diaz was evident. "We definitely had those somber moments… and you take that and you have that moment," Foxx shared, reflecting on their emotional reunion after his recovery. In his trademark humor, Foxx remarked, "What would have put me back in the hospital is if it was bad!" demonstrating his resilience and positive outlook during the production ([USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2025/01/17/cameron-diaz-jamie-foxx-back-in-action/77720423007/)).
With her return, Diaz has indicated a shift in how she approaches projects, defining new priorities that align with her family life. "There's completely different boxes to check off than before," she stated, emphasizing the importance of family while navigating her new acting career.
As Diaz steps back into the limelight, her journey serves as both an inspiration and a testament to prioritizing one's passions while championing family values.