Major Controversies Surrounding Jim Carrey: A Detailed Timeline

Public opinion and media debates around Jim Carrey—discover key moments of controversy.

Jim Carrey is a highly successful Canadian and American actor and comedian, celebrated for his slapstick performances. He is considered one of the leading comedic actors of his generation. Carrey has been honored with two Golden Globe Awards and has received nominations for BAFTA and Screen Actors Guild Awards, highlighting his impact on the entertainment industry.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

2009: Appearance on Larry King Live to Discuss Autism

In 2009, Jim Carrey and Jenny McCarthy appeared on Larry King Live to discuss autism. Carrey stated that he believes autism "is preventable and treatable," and that "it's still shocking to see how many people are ignoring this information."

2009: Anti-Vaccination Article and Rally

In 2009, Jim Carrey wrote an article questioning vaccination merits and its connection to autism for The Huffington Post. He also led a "Green Our Vaccines" march in Washington, D.C., advocating for removing "toxic substances" from children's vaccines.

March 2013: Release of The Incredible Burt Wonderstone and appearance in Kick-Ass 2

In March 2013, Jim Carrey starred in The Incredible Burt Wonderstone, which underperformed at the box office. Around the same time, he appeared in Kick-Ass 2 but retracted his support due to the Sandy Hook shooting.

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July 1, 2015: Criticism of California's Vaccination Law

On July 1, 2015, Jim Carrey called California governor Jerry Brown a "corporate fascist" for enacting a new vaccination law, which disallowed religious and philosophical exemptions. His statements were criticized by medical ethicists and writers.

September 19, 2016: Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed by Mark Burton

On September 19, 2016, Mark Burton, the husband of Jim Carrey's former girlfriend Cathriona White, filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Carrey, claiming he had illegally obtained and distributed prescription drugs involved in White's death.

October 2016: Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed by Brigid Sweetman

In October 2016, Brigid Sweetman, Cathriona White's mother, also filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Jim Carrey.

January 25, 2018: Dismissal of Wrongful Death Lawsuits

On January 25, 2018, both wrongful death lawsuits filed against Jim Carrey by Mark Burton and Brigid Sweetman (Cathriona White's mother) were dismissed, with attorneys confirming no further legal proceedings.

March 31, 2019: Political Cartoon Controversy

On March 31, 2019, Jim Carrey's drawing criticizing fascism by depicting Benito Mussolini's death sparked an international event, drawing criticism from Mussolini's granddaughter.