Cameron Diaz makes her comeback after a five-year break with the family action-comedy *Back in Action*, co-starring Jamie Foxx. She plays Emily, a former CIA spy who, along with Foxx’s character Matt, must protect their children from past enemies. Diaz, who stepped away from acting to focus on family and personal projects, felt it was the right time to return. Supported by her husband and encouraged by Foxx, she embraced rigorous training for her role.
Cameron Diaz Makes a Triumphant Return
After a five-year hiatus from the red carpet and a decade since her last film premiere, Cameron Diaz is back in the spotlight. This Wednesday in Berlin, the acclaimed actress was greeted by a flurry of camera flashes and excited photographers calling her name. Diaz is stepping out of her Hollywood slumber with a project that perfectly aligns with her new chapter in life. Titled *Back in Action*, this family action-comedy reconnects the star of *My Best Friend’s Wedding* and *Night and Day* with her audience, showcasing her journey as a mother.
A Dynamic Duo: Diaz and Foxx Team Up Again
In the film, Diaz portrays Emily, alongside Jamie Foxx, who plays her partner Matt. Once CIA spies deeply in love, they decide to vanish from their past lives after a risky mission. However, fifteen years later, old enemies resurface, compelling them to defend their children, who remain blissfully unaware of their heroic past. Director Seth Gordon, who previously worked with Foxx on *Horrible Bosses*, immediately thought of him for this daring role. “When it came to casting Emily, Jamie’s team suggested Cameron Diaz, and I thought, ‘That would be fantastic! But isn’t she retired?’” Gordon reflects.
Cameron Diaz has been a prominent figure in Hollywood since her breakout role in *The Mask* alongside Jim Carrey in 1994, establishing herself as one of the industry’s leading ladies for over twenty years. However, in 2014, after the release of *Annie*, she stepped away from the limelight. “Turning 40 made me reassess my priorities and embark on a new journey,” she shared in a past interview with Gwyneth Paltrow.
During her five years off-screen, Diaz focused on her personal life, marrying rocker Benji Madden and welcoming two children, Raddix in 2020 and Cardinal in 2024. While juggling parenting, she also ventured into winemaking with her brand Avaline, which offers organic wines that are budget-friendly.
So, what prompted her return to acting? “It felt like the right moment for our family post-COVID. We enjoyed our time at home, but it was clear we would eventually need to get back out there,” she humorously remarked. Diaz admitted she had to “push herself” to step back onto the film set.
Her husband supported her decision, saying, “You’ve been there for us, now it’s time for us to support you.” This sentiment, coupled with Jamie Foxx’s encouragement, ultimately led her to accept the role. “I couldn’t refuse Jamie. He said, ‘Come with me,’ and I couldn’t say no,” she explained, highlighting their previous collaborations.
Director Seth Gordon praised Diaz’s commitment, noting that she engaged in rigorous stunt training and performed most of her action scenes. With the film capturing the essence of *Charlie’s Angels* with its thrilling action sequences, Diaz’s return is a testament to her dedication.
Despite facing challenges during production due to Foxx’s health issues, the pair celebrated their reunion in a joyful video shared by Netflix. While *Back in Action* may not redefine Diaz’s filmography, it marks a significant step in her return to acting. As she contemplates future projects, Diaz remains open to opportunities on her own terms, stating, “I reserve the right to say no or yes to new films based on what feels right for me and my family.” She humorously adds, “No more romcoms, only momcoms,” and looks forward to voicing Princess Fiona once again in the upcoming *Shrek 5* set to release in 2026.