Jeremy Renner Says Writing About His Near Death Experience Was 'Emotionally Cathartic' Ahead Of Memoir Release
By Afouda Bamidele on April 23, 2025 at 12:15 PM EDT
Jeremy Renner is sharing how revisiting his snowplow accident felt.
The actor decided to take stock of one of his life's most harrowing and humbling experiences, and the process was no less daunting than the situation itself.
Jeremy Renner was in the news after he survived being crushed to death in his driveway by his 14,000-pound Snowcat plow on New Year's Day, 2023.
Jeremy Renner Broke Over 35 Bones And Nearly Lost His Eyesight In The Accident
Renner described the feelings he experienced while writing about his traumatic accident. According to him: "Writing about it has been very emotionally cathartic to have to go word by word through it all again."
He shared that revisiting those moments in their rawest form has been a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit despite the fragility of the body.
Renner detailed his painful experience in his upcoming book "My Next Breath," revealing the extent of his injuries, including over 35 broken bones and the alarming sight of viewing his left eye with his right after his head struck the pavement.
The actor emphasized that while he is not often haunted by the memories or sounds of the incident, he is constantly reminded of his new reality, which he views positively.
He feels fortunate to have survived, stating simply, "I didn't die." The incident occurred while he was trying to protect his nephew, Alex, from a runaway plow. Although Alex is reportedly doing well, Renner acknowledged that the trauma from that day has been tough on everyone involved.
"[Alex] read the book. Actually, we did listen to the book together, which was pretty intense, but we never really tried to push this under anything," If I get better, then he'll get better," the TV star told PEOPLE.
Renner believes that his healing journey intertwines with Alex's, stating that the images from his struggles are ones she cannot unsee, which drives him to recover for both their sakes.
The 'Avengers' Actor Is Grateful His Daughter Gets To See Him Triumph Over His Injuries
Reflecting on his rehabilitation, Renner credits his family as a vital source of motivation, particularly Ava, who is now 12.
The actor sees the experience as a valuable lesson in resilience, allowing Ava to witness both his vulnerability and the power of overcoming difficult obstacles. He is determined to shield her from fear, showing her the strength he has cultivated throughout his life.
As he prepares for his upcoming role in "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" on Netflix, Renner revealed how his mother played a crucial role in helping Ava understand the accident.
He reassured her amid her fear by assigning her small tasks, telling her to be his arms and legs while promising that he would recover if she remained patient. This experience, he believes, has not only strengthened their bond but has also equipped Ava with fortitude for the future.
The 54-Year-Old Reflected On His Accident On Its Second Anniversary
On January 1, 2025, two years after his accident, The Blast shared that the Marvel star shared a heartfelt message on social media to celebrate his second "ReBirthday."
In his lengthy Instagram post, he expressed profound gratitude to the numerous individuals who supported him during his recovery, specifically thanking the nurses, doctors, and first responders. He acknowledged that he "literally" owes them his life.
Renner also extended his love and appreciation to his brave nephew and the neighbors who rushed to help him during the chaotic moments following his snowplow accident. He reflected on the trauma of that day, expressing sorrow for the distressing images they experienced.
Body camera footage from first responders captured the urgent response to Renner's critical injuries after he was run over by his snowplow near his home in Reno, Nevada.
The video revealed the frantic efforts of medical teams as they worked to stabilize him before he was swiftly transported to the hospital for emergency care.
What Really Went Down During The Accident?
The details are graphic, and Renner's survival is nothing short of a miracle. On January 1st, 2023, after a heavy blizzard, Renner experienced a life-threatening accident in his Nevada home.
At the time, the actor was hosting family for the holidays, and he decided to clear the snow to prevent his vehicle from getting stuck on the icy road.
Renner was assisting his sister Kym's son, who was detaching the chain connecting their car to a snowplow. As concerns for his nephew's safety grew due to poor visibility, Renner leaned out of the vehicle but neglected to engage the parking brake.
In a tragic turn of events, he fell from the snowplow just as it began to roll. Realizing the machine was heading towards his nephew, Renner tried to return to the driver's seat but was caught beneath the massive vehicle, resulting in life-threatening injuries.
He also suffered from a collapsed lung, blunt chest trauma, and orthopedic injuries in his leg and upper body.
Jeremy Renner's Accident Offered Him A New Angle On Life, Living, And Death
As noted by The Blast, the father of one reflected on the valuable lessons learned during one of the lowest points in his life, specifically after a near-death experience.
He expressed that this ordeal has freed him from the fear of death, stating, "I'm really not afraid of it now; in fact, I'm excited for it." Last year, at 53 years old, he recognized that many of life's emotions and challenges are ultimately unnecessary.
He shares his new philosophy about existence with a touch of humor, arguing that life, the world we inhabit, and our emotional struggles are mostly insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
The actor also let his expansive Los Angeles mansion go as part of his transitioning process, as he recovered in the home.
