Jason Derulo, the chart-topping singer and performer, recently shared a harrowing account of a near-death experience he endured during a gym accident in 2013. In an interview on Paris Hilton’s “I Am Paris” podcast, Derulo recounted the incident that resulted in a broken C2 vertebrae, a serious injury that nearly ended his life and career.
The accident occurred while Derulo was attempting a risky move at the insistence of a trainer. “So I slipped during one of the back tucks and I landed on my head, breaking my C2 vertebrae,” he revealed, describing it as one of the worst ideas he had ever been persuaded to attempt.
The severity of the injury became immediately apparent to Derulo as he heard a “big crack” upon impact and feared he might be dying. Despite the pain and uncertainty, he managed to compose himself and downplay the situation to avoid alarming his mother, who was with him at the time.
“After five minutes of laying on the ground, I got myself together and walked to the car holding my neck,” Derulo recounted. “And then I’m like, ‘Mom, I think I hurt myself a little bit’ — like with that bright kind of voice — ‘I think I hurt myself a little bit inside, we should probably go to the hospital just to check it out.’”
At the hospital, Derulo received the grim diagnosis of a “hangman’s break,” which could have resulted in paralysis or worse. Fortunately, he was prescribed seven months of rest and recovery, which forced him to cancel his tour but ultimately set the stage for a remarkable comeback.
During his recovery period, Derulo established a strict routine that included daily walks and extended hours in the studio. This disciplined approach culminated in the creation of his highly successful album “Talk Dirty,” which featured hits like “Talk Dirty,” “The Other Side,” “Marry Me,” and “Wiggle.”
Reflecting on this transformative period, Derulo emphasized the power of routine in his creative process. “When I’m able to really follow a routine, amazing things happen,” he affirmed, highlighting how structure and dedication contributed to his artistic achievements during a challenging time.
Derulo’s resilience and determination in overcoming adversity serve as an inspiring testament to his perseverance and passion for music, marking a pivotal chapter in his career that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.