Jeremy Renner Reflects on Near-Death Experience and How It Transformed His Life Priorities
Jeremy Renner, acclaimed actor known for his roles in “The Hurt Locker,” “The Town,” and as Hawkeye in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, recently appeared on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” to discuss his remarkable recovery from a near-fatal accident and how it has profoundly reshaped his outlook on life. With the fourth season of his hit series “Mayor of Kingstown” premiering on Paramount+, Renner reflected on survival, gratitude, and his renewed commitment to helping others.
The Accident That Changed Everything
On New Year’s Day 2023, Renner’s life took a dramatic turn. In an effort to save his nephew from being run over by a massive snowcat—a 14,000-pound machine—Renner himself was crushed by the vehicle. The accident left him with 38 broken bones, a dislocated eye, punctured lungs, and a long list of other critical injuries.
“I did die in the ice that day and somehow got brought back,” Renner recounted. “The survival part of it is the greatest gift of it all. We don’t know a lot of things until we are tested to our limits.”
Despite the severity of his injuries, Renner’s recovery was nothing short of miraculous. He joked about the experience, saying, “My eye was the easiest part. They just kind of put it back in.” But the real transformation was internal.
A New Perspective on Life
When asked how he had changed since the accident, Renner was candid: “I’m stronger, more clear, more connected and loving to everyone and anyone around me. I have such gratitude for every breath, every step, for all the blessings I have in my life.”
He likened the shift in perspective to becoming a parent—everything changes, even if nothing seems different on the surface. “My health is now number one,” Renner admitted. “Before, it was way down on the totem pole. Now, time with my family and my daughter are most important, and my foundation keeps me living a purposeful and attentive life.”
Renner’s physical recovery included replacing many bones with titanium, which he joked makes him “the new Iron Man in a lot of ways.” The actor’s sense of humor and resilience were on full display as he described the challenges of airport security and his “25% titanium” body.
Giving Back: The Rennervation Foundation
Renner’s renewed sense of purpose extends beyond his personal life. He spoke passionately about the Rennervation Foundation, an organization he started to support foster children—a cause close to his heart, inspired by his sister’s decades-long work in child protective services.
“There are 400,000 kids not getting loved, being marginalized to the side,” Renner explained. “When foster kids age out of the system, they’re often just dumped on the street. What we do is provide them with housing, a car, financial literacy, and basic life skills—helping them land softly as they exit foster care.”
Though the foundation currently supports a handful of apartments, Renner is determined to expand its reach. “We have a lot of work to do, but we’re just getting started,” he said.
Looking Back on His Career
2025 marks 30 years since Renner’s on-screen debut in National Lampoon’s “Senior Trip,” a milestone that prompted fond memories. “I remember getting a phone call from my agent saying, ‘You’re going to Toronto,’ and I jumped up and down screaming, ‘Where’s Toronto?’” Renner recalled. As a small-town boy in his early twenties, he was awestruck by the opportunity to lead a film.
Moving Forward
Renner’s story is one of resilience, gratitude, and transformation. Surviving a near-death experience has given him a new lease on life, shifting his priorities toward health, family, and purposeful service to others. As he returns to television in “Mayor of Kingstown,” Renner is not only celebrating his physical recovery but also embracing a deeper commitment to making a difference.
His journey serves as a powerful reminder: sometimes, the greatest gifts come from life’s toughest challenges—and the most meaningful change begins with a renewed appreciation for every breath.
