Jim Carrey's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Jim Carrey. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Jim Carrey is a Canadian and American actor and comedian celebrated for his high-energy, slapstick performances. He has garnered significant recognition for his work, including two Golden Globe Awards, along with nominations for BAFTA Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Carrey's career spans both comedic and dramatic roles, establishing him as a versatile and prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Sections (5)

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

1979: Return to the Stage

In 1979, after his family's financial situation improved, Jim Carrey returned to the stage with a more polished act. He landed his first paid gig at the Hay Loft club and later returned to Yuk Yuk's, building his reputation as a comedian.

February 1981: Opening Act for Goddo

In February 1981, Jim Carrey was booked as the opening act for the rock band Goddo at The Roxy Theatre in Barrie, but he was booed offstage. Also in February 1981, a review appeared in the Toronto Star, praising him as a star.

June 19, 1982: Sold-Out Shows at Massey Hall

On June 19, 1982, Jim Carrey performed two sold-out shows at Massey Hall in Toronto, marking a successful return to his hometown.

1994: Breakthrough Film Star

In 1994, Jim Carrey achieved breakthrough success as a film star with roles in 'Ace Ventura: Pet Detective', 'The Mask', and 'Dumb and Dumber', all of which were box office hits.

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1995: Continued Film Success

In 1995, Jim Carrey continued his success with starring roles in 'Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls' and 'Batman Forever', solidifying his position as a leading actor.

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May 1996: Hosting Saturday Night Live

In May 1996, after achieving fame as a film star, Jim Carrey hosted 'Saturday Night Live'.

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1996: First $20 Million Salary

In 1996, Jim Carrey became the first comic actor to receive an upfront $20 million salary for a film role, starting with 'The Cable Guy'.

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1997: Liar Liar Release

In 1997, Jim Carrey starred in Liar Liar, playing Fletcher Reede, an unethical lawyer unable to lie due to his son's wish. Carrey's performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination.

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1997: Leading Role in Liar Liar

In 1997, Jim Carrey starred in the comedy 'Liar Liar', which was another success for him as a leading actor.

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1998: Starring in The Truman Show

In 1998, Jim Carrey starred in 'The Truman Show', receiving critical acclaim for his performance and winning a Golden Globe Award.

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1998: The Truman Show Release

In 1998, Jim Carrey starred in The Truman Show, receiving international acclaim and winning a Golden Globe Award. The film grossed $264 million worldwide.

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1999: Starring in Man on the Moon

In 1999, Jim Carrey starred as Andy Kaufman in 'Man on the Moon', winning another Golden Globe Award for his performance.

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1999: Man on the Moon Release

In 1999, Jim Carrey starred in Man on the Moon, portraying comedian Andy Kaufman. He received his second Golden Globe for this role.

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2000: Starring in How the Grinch Stole Christmas

In 2000, Jim Carrey starred in 'How the Grinch Stole Christmas', continuing his success as a leading actor in comedies.

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2000: Me, Myself & Irene and How the Grinch Stole Christmas Release

In 2000, Jim Carrey starred in Me, Myself & Irene and How the Grinch Stole Christmas. He received a Golden Globe nomination for How the Grinch Stole Christmas.

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2003: Leading Role in Bruce Almighty

In 2003, Jim Carrey starred in the comedy 'Bruce Almighty', adding to his list of successful leading roles.

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2004: Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events Release

In 2004, Jim Carrey starred in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events. Carrey's performance in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind earned him a Golden Globe nomination and a BAFTA Award nomination.

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2004: Starring in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

In 2004, Jim Carrey starred in the romantic drama 'Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind', receiving a BAFTA Award nomination and another Golden Globe nomination.

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January 2011: Hosting Saturday Night Live

In January 2011, Jim Carrey hosted 'Saturday Night Live'.

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May 2014: Commencement Address and Honorary Doctorate

In May 2014, Jim Carrey delivered the commencement address at Maharishi University of Management and received an honorary doctorate.

August 29, 2014: Honored with Canada Post Postage Stamp

On August 29, 2014, Jim Carrey was honored by Canada Post with a limited-edition postage stamp featuring his portrait.

October 2014: Hosting Saturday Night Live

In October 2014, Jim Carrey hosted 'Saturday Night Live'.

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January 25, 2018: Wrongful death lawsuits against Carrey dismissed

On January 25, 2018, both wrongful death lawsuits filed against Jim Carrey by Mark Burton and Brigid Sweetman were dismissed, and attorneys for both sides confirmed there would be no further legal proceedings.

2018: Starring in Kidding

In 2018, Jim Carrey starred in the Showtime tragicomedy series 'Kidding', earning his seventh Golden Globe nomination.

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April 2022: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 released with Carrey reprising his role

In April 2022, Jim Carrey returned for Sonic the Hedgehog 2, which grossed $72 million at the US box office in its opening weekend, marking the best opening of Carrey's career to date.

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