Photo Credit: I Am Paris podcast
In a candid interview on Paris Hilton’s podcast “I Am Paris,” Jason Derulo opened up about a life-threatening gym accident in 2013 that broke his neck and nearly ended his life. The “Whatcha Say” singer recounted the harrowing incident, sharing that he was preparing for the biggest tour of his career at the time.
While working out with a trainer, Derulo was instructed to perform 50 back tucks in a row—a demanding exercise involving a backward flip landing on the hands and pushing off to return to the feet. It was during one of these tucks that Derulo slipped and landed on his head, breaking his C2 vertebrae. The injury is known as a “hangman’s break,” a term that underscores its severity, as it is often fatal or results in paralysis.
Reflecting on the moment, Derulo said, “As soon as it happened, I heard a big crack, and I was just like, ‘Holy s---, is this it? Is this how it all ends?’” Despite the pain, his immediate concern was not to alarm his mother, who was waiting in the car. He managed to walk to her, downplaying the severity of his injury before suggesting they go to the hospital.
At the hospital, X-rays confirmed the gravity of the situation. The doctor told Derulo, “The good news is that you have a hangman’s break, and you’re still alive. The bad news is you’re going to be out for seven months.” This diagnosis shattered his plans for the tour, leading to a period of profound disappointment as he thought about the fans who had eagerly awaited his performances.
During his recovery, Derulo devised a strict routine to regain his strength and channel his energy. He walked for 45 minutes daily and spent hours in the studio, which led to the creation of his highly successful album “Talk Dirty.” The album, featuring hits like “Talk Dirty,” “The Other Side,” and “Wiggle,” became a testament to his resilience and creativity during a challenging period.
Derulo’s recovery journey was not just physical but also deeply transformative. He emerged with a new perspective on life, emphasizing the importance of routine and perseverance. He has often reflected on how the experience, though traumatic, ultimately led to personal and professional growth.
Today, Derulo continues to inspire with his story of overcoming adversity, reminding us that even in the face of near-death experiences, it is possible to find strength and achieve great success.
