What 50 Cent Remembers Most About Being Shot Nine Times — And How It Changed His View of Fame

In 2000, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson survived a harrowing ordeal that would forever alter his life and outlook: he was shot nine times. This near-fatal experience did more than just leave physical scars—it profoundly reshaped his understanding of purpose, trust, and fame.

In multiple interviews, 50 Cent has reflected on the momentous impact the shooting had on him. Surviving such a brutal attack led him to the belief that he was meant to fulfill a greater purpose. “I must have a reason for being here,” he has said, acknowledging how close he came to death and the clarity it gave him about life.

The shooting also made 50 Cent wary of the people around him. He realized that not everyone had his best interests at heart, prompting him to be more cautious in his personal and professional relationships. This heightened vigilance became a defining feature of how he navigated the music industry and the wider world.

Perhaps most notably, 50 Cent’s view of fame transformed after the shooting. He shifted away from the superficial trappings of celebrity and focused intently on building a meaningful career. This change in mindset is reflected in his music, which often grapples with themes of survival, resilience, and overcoming adversity.

The shooting, while a traumatic event, became a turning point for 50 Cent—one that fueled his rise from a near-death experience to becoming a global icon. It is a testament to his strength and determination that he not only survived but used that survival as a catalyst for a renewed sense of purpose and artistic authenticity.