Foxx didn't just offer Sheeran a couch to crash on. He gave the young artist access to a recording studio in his home and, more importantly, introduced him to key industry contacts.

During his stay, Sheeran recorded some early tracks and even performed for Foxx's radio show audience. Foxx, recognizing Sheeran's raw talent, essentially became an early champion of his music at a time when few in America knew his name.

Years later, as Sheeran's star rose with hits like "The A Team," "Thinking Out Loud," and "Shape of You," he has frequently acknowledged Foxx's early support in interviews.

The two have remained friends, with Foxx occasionally joining Sheeran on stage at concerts. Their story reminds us that behind many "overnight success" stories are years of struggle and the helping hands of mentors who recognized talent before the rest of the world caught on.

This unlikely friendship between a British singer-songwriter and an American actor/musician shows how cross-cultural and cross-genre connections can create powerful ripple effects in the music industry - and how sometimes, the right support at the right moment can help launch a career that touches millions.