Jim Carrey, born James Eugene Carrey on January 17, 1962, in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada, is a Canadian-American actor, comedian, writer, and artist. Known for his energetic slapstick performances and rubbery facial expressions, Carrey became one of the most iconic comedic actors of the 1990s and early 2000s.
Carrey’s family struggled financially during his childhood, and he began performing stand-up comedy in Toronto at a young age to help support them. In the early 1980s, he moved to Los Angeles, where he gained attention with his unique style of physical comedy. His big break came in 1990 when he was cast on the sketch comedy show *In Living Color*, which showcased his talents and led to his rise in Hollywood.
His first major film role was in *Ace Ventura: Pet Detective* (1994), which became a surprise hit and established him as a comedic star. This was followed by a string of box-office successes, including *The Mask* (1994), *Dumb and Dumber* (1994), and *Liar Liar* (1997). Carrey’s performances were characterized by over-the-top physicality, wild facial expressions, and improvisational humor.
In the late 1990s, Carrey transitioned to more dramatic roles, earning critical acclaim for his performances in *The Truman Show* (1998), where he played a man unknowingly living inside a reality TV show, and *Man on the Moon* (1999), in which he portrayed eccentric comedian Andy Kaufman. These roles earned him Golden Globe Awards and demonstrated his range as an actor.
Carrey continued to balance comedic and dramatic roles throughout the 2000s, starring in films like *Bruce Almighty* (2003), *Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind* (2004), *Yes Man* (2008), and *A Christmas Carol* (2009). His performance in *Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind* is considered one of his best, showcasing his ability to handle complex emotional material.
Aside from acting, Carrey is a passionate visual artist and author. His paintings and sculptures, often featuring bold colors and political commentary, have been displayed in galleries. In 2020, he co-authored a semi-autobiographical novel titled *Memoirs and Misinformation*, which blends fiction and reality to explore his experiences in Hollywood.
Carrey has also been vocal about mental health and spirituality, openly discussing his struggles with depression and his journey toward self-awareness and inner peace.
Jim Carrey remains one of the most unique and influential performers in entertainment, known for his versatility, physical comedy, and thoughtful exploration of deeper themes in his later work.