Before landing his Academy Award winning role as Ray Charles in the 2004 biopic Ray, Jamie Foxx was best known for his comedic spins on 90’s sketch show In Living Color and his sitcom The Jamie Foxx Show. His foray into more dramatic roles began in with the 1999 Oliver Stone directed film, Any Given Sunday. Only to be quickly followed by a supporting role in Ali and the Tom Cruise film, Collateral—of which he received a Golden Globe nomination.

While his acting chops are undeniable, his portrayal of Ray Charles opened the eyes of his peers, critics, and fans. And consequently allowed him to build a large and solid fan-base. In case you’ve been stuck under a rock, and missed the meteoric rise of Jamie Foxx—the actor–over the past few years since Ray, Centric’s got you covered.

1. Redemption: The Stan “Tookie” Williams Story (2004) – Foxx portrayed the ex Crips-gang leader on his quest for peace on the streets of Los Angeles and beyond.

3. Miami Vice (2006) – Portrayed Phillip Michael Thomas’ legendary role of Ricardo Tubbs opposite of Colin Farrell in the big screen version of the classic 80’s action series.

4. Dreamgirls (2006) – A Flashback to the 60’s, Foxx put his vocal ability to work as record label owner and producer Curtis Taylor Jr. in the on-screen adaptation of the Broadway hit musical.

5. The Soloist (2009) – Based on a true story; Foxx portrayed the homeless, mentally ill, and extraordinarily gifted musician Nathaniel Ayers.  The film captures the friendship that was formed between Ayers and a journalist (played by Robert Downey Jr.) that wanted to tell his story.

Jamie Foxx fans don’t forget to tune in today at 6PM EST for “The Jamie Foxx Show “only on Centric.

Justin Dwayne Joseph/Taj Chrisp

TAGS: Actor, Colin Farrell, Collateral, Dreamgirls, Jamie Foxx, Justin Dwayne Joseph, Justin Joseph, Movies, Phillip Michael Thomas, Ray, Ray Charles, Robert Downey Jr., Stan "Tookie" Williams, Taj Chrisp, The Jamie Foxx Show, Tom Cruise