Jim Carrey, born James Eugene Carrey on January 17, 1962, is a Canadian-American actor, comedian, and producer renowned for his iconic roles in both comedy and drama. As of 2026, Carrey’s net worth is estimated at $180 million, reflecting decades of box-office hits, endorsements, and smart investments.
He has been married twice—first to Melissa Womer (1987–1995) and then to Lauren Holly (1996)—and is a father to one daughter, Jane Erin Carrey. Currently, he resides in Los Angeles, California, where he continues to enjoy a quiet life while occasionally returning to the big screen for select projects.
Profile Summary
| Profile Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Eugene Carrey |
| Profession | Actor, Comedian, Producer, Artist |
| Net Worth (2026) | $180 million |
| Date of Birth | January 17, 1962 |
| Place of Birth | Newmarket, Ontario, Canada |
| Marital Status | Divorced twice; notable relationships include Jenny McCarthy and Cathriona White |
| Children | Jane Erin Carrey |
| Primary Residence | Los Angeles, California (Brentwood area) |
| Career Highlights | Ace Ventura, The Mask, Dumb and Dumber, The Truman Show, Man on the Moon, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Sonic the Hedgehog series |
| Highest-Paid Films | The Cable Guy, Liar Liar, Yes Man, The Grinch |
| Awards & Achievements | 2 Golden Globes, multiple nominations, critical acclaim for both comedy and drama |
| Other Ventures | Real estate, endorsements, painting, philanthropy |
| Current Focus | Quiet life, spiritual pursuits, occasional selective acting roles |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Jim Carrey was born in 1962 in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada. Growing up in financial hardship after his father lost his job, he found solace in comedy. By his teens, Carrey performed stand-up, eventually catching Rodney Dangerfield’s attention.
Childhood and Family Background
Jim Carrey was born James Eugene Carrey on January 17, 1962, in Newmarket, Ontario, Canada. His early life was marked by financial struggles after his father, Percy Carrey, lost his job, forcing the family into near-poverty. Young Jim often worked long hours to help support his family, an experience that shaped his determination and work ethic.
Stand-Up Comedy and Early Breakthroughs
Carrey began performing stand-up comedy at the age of 15 in Toronto, honing his talent for impressions and physical comedy. His big break came when legendary comedian Rodney Dangerfield noticed his act and offered him an opening slot on tour, which led Carrey to Las Vegas and eventually Hollywood. In the late 1980s, he landed minor film roles in Once Bitten (1985), Peggy Sue Got Married (1986), and Earth Girls Are Easy (1988), gradually building his reputation in the entertainment industry.
Rise to Fame and Hollywood Breakthrough
Jim Carrey rose to fame with his role on In Living Color, showcasing iconic characters like Fire Marshal Bill. In 1994, he achieved a historic breakthrough starring in three blockbuster hits—Ace Ventura, The Mask, and Dumb and Dumber.
In Living Color
Jim Carrey gained major exposure in 1990 as a cast member on the hit sketch comedy show In Living Color. He became known for his rubber-faced expressions, physical comedy, and memorable characters, most notably Fire Marshal Bill, which helped him stand out as a rising comedic star in Hollywood.
1994 – Year of Blockbusters
The year 1994 marked a turning point in Carrey’s career. He starred in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask, and Dumb and Dumber, each achieving massive box office success. Remarkably, Carrey became the first actor in history to star in three films that each grossed over $100 million in a single year, solidifying his status as a leading comedic actor in Hollywood.
Jim Carrey’s Net Worth in 2026
As of 2026, Jim Carrey’s net worth is estimated at $180 million, making him one of Hollywood’s wealthiest comedic actors. His fortune comes from a combination of movie salaries, profit participation deals, endorsements, and strategic real estate investments.
Career Earnings Highlights
- Throughout his career, Carrey has earned some of the highest paychecks in Hollywood history:
- Dumb and Dumber (1994): $7 million
- Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994): $450,000; sequel (1995): $10 million
- The Cable Guy (1996): $20 million, making him the first actor to earn that much upfront for a single film
- Yes Man (2008): Forgoing an upfront salary, Carrey earned approximately $30 million from backend profits
Real Estate Investments
Carrey has also invested heavily in real estate. His Brentwood mansion, purchased in 1994 for $3.8 million, was listed for $28.9 million in 2023 but eventually sold for $17 million, reflecting market fluctuations. In addition to Brentwood, he has owned several other properties across the U.S., which have contributed significantly to his overall wealth.
Jim Carrey’s Highest-Paid Films
Jim Carrey’s highest-paid films highlight his box-office dominance. The Mask earned him $540k, Liar Liar $20M, and The Grinch $20M plus back-end profits. Recent projects like Sonic the Hedgehog 2 & 3 reinforced his continued earning power.
The Mask – $540k, Box Office $352M
Released in 1994, The Mask was a massive hit, grossing $352 million worldwide on a $23 million budget. Carrey earned $540,000 for the film, a modest sum compared to his later blockbuster salaries, but it helped solidify his rising star power in Hollywood.
Liar Liar – $20M, Box Office $303M
For Liar Liar (1997), Carrey commanded a $20 million salary, reflecting his status as one of Hollywood’s top comedic actors. The film went on to gross $303 million worldwide, proving Carrey’s ability to deliver both box-office success and high returns for studios.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas – $20M Plus Back-End Profits
Carrey earned $20 million upfront for The Grinch (2000), with additional back-end box office bonuses. The film grossed $346 million globally, making it one of the most lucrative projects in his career and showcasing his value as a bankable lead.
Sonic the Hedgehog 2 & 3 – Recent Earnings and Career Comeback
Carrey returned to the big screen in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, reprising his role as Dr. Robotnik. While exact salaries are not fully disclosed, his involvement in Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and the upcoming 3rd installment marked a career comeback and demonstrated that he remains a sought-after actor for major studios, even after years away from Hollywood.
Did Jim Carrey Squander His Fortune?
Over the past few years, Jim Carrey’s financial choices have sparked curiosity and rumors among fans and media. Most notably, his Brentwood mansion sat on the market for over two years, with its price reduced multiple times—from the original $28.9 million down to $17 million at final sale. These cuts led some to speculate that Carrey might be struggling financially.
However, the truth is far from that. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Carrey still enjoys a net worth of $180 million. He hasn’t been involved in any public financial scandals, nor has he displayed reckless spending habits. His wealth remains firmly intact, supported by decades of blockbuster films, strategic profit participation, endorsements, and real estate investments.
Carrey himself often jokes about money, leaving fans unsure if he’s being serious or playful. In interviews, he’s explained that some career decisions, including stepping away from Hollywood after 2022’s Sonic the Hedgehog 2, were driven by personal fulfillment rather than financial necessity. “I bought a lot of stuff and I need the money, frankly,” he quipped in 2024—but he clarified that his comments were lighthearted rather than literal.
In essence, Carrey’s selective approach to acting and his humorous take on wealth reflect a man who values creative freedom and personal happiness over accumulating more money. Despite rumors, he has not squandered his fortune, and his financial legacy remains strong.
Career Transition and Creative Ventures
In recent years, Jim Carrey has shifted his focus from Hollywood blockbusters to more personal and creative pursuits. After decades of high-profile films and record-breaking paychecks, he embraced a quieter lifestyle centered around painting, spirituality, and self-expression. Carrey has described art as a way to process emotions and explore ideas outside the constraints of film or comedy, creating a meaningful outlet beyond monetary success.
While he has stepped back from consistent acting, Carrey occasionally returns for selective projects that align with his personal interests or resonate deeply with him. For example, his return to the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise in 2024 was motivated as much by enjoyment as by financial considerations.
These choices have allowed Carrey to maintain creative control and personal fulfillment, even as he navigates a life away from constant Hollywood scrutiny. Importantly, this transition has not negatively affected his net worth—his earnings from past films, endorsements, and investments continue to sustain him comfortably while he prioritizes a more intentional lifestyle.
Personal Life
Jim Carrey has been married twice and has one daughter, Jane Erin Carrey. He’s also had high-profile relationships, including with Jenny McCarthy and Cathriona White. Beyond acting, he values privacy, philanthropy, and a spiritually focused, creative lifestyle.
Marriages and Relationships
Jim Carrey has been married twice. His first marriage was to Melissa Womer from 1987 to 1995, with whom he shares a daughter, Jane Erin Carrey, who appeared on American Idol in 2012. In 1996, he married his Dumb and Dumber co-star Lauren Holly, though the marriage lasted less than a year. Carrey has also been linked to other relationships, including a high-profile romance with Jenny McCarthy from 2005 to 2010, and later with makeup artist Cathriona White until 2015.
Children
Carrey’s only child is Jane Erin Carrey, who has pursued a career in entertainment.
Philanthropy and Charitable Work
Jim Carrey has contributed to various causes over the years, often quietly. While not always publicized, his charitable efforts reflect his personal values and desire to make a positive impact beyond Hollywood.
Current Lifestyle
Carrey currently resides in Los Angeles, enjoying a quieter life focused on art, spirituality, and personal projects, stepping away from the constant public scrutiny of his earlier years.
Awards and Achievements
Jim Carrey has earned widespread acclaim, winning two Golden Globes for The Truman Show and Man on the Moon. He received multiple nominations for his dramatic and comedic roles, cementing his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most versatile performers.
Golden Globes and Nominations
Jim Carrey has earned multiple Golden Globe Awards throughout his career. He won Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama for The Truman Show (1998) and Man on the Moon (1999), highlighting his versatility beyond comedy. He has also received several Golden Globe nominations for roles in both comedic and dramatic films, cementing his status as one of Hollywood’s most talented performers.
Recognition Beyond Comedy
While Carrey is best known for his iconic comedic roles in films like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask, and Dumb and Dumber, his dramatic performances have garnered critical acclaim. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) earned him widespread praise and a BAFTA nomination, showcasing his ability to deliver nuanced and emotionally resonant performances.
Other Honors
In addition to acting awards, Carrey has received recognition for his contributions to the entertainment industry and popular culture, including accolades for his influence on comedy and his groundbreaking achievements in film salaries.
Legacy
Jim Carrey’s combination of comedic genius, dramatic skill, and boundary-pushing performances has made him a respected and celebrated figure in Hollywood, leaving a lasting impact on both audiences and the industry.
Final Thoughts
Jim Carrey’s net worth in 2026 is estimated at $180 million, built over decades of iconic performances, record-breaking salaries, and smart investments. From his breakout role in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective to dramatic triumphs in The Truman Show and Man on the Moon, Carrey has proven his versatility and staying power in Hollywood.
Beyond films, his real estate ventures, profit participation deals, and selective endorsements have solidified his financial stability. Today, Carrey enjoys a quieter life focused on painting, spirituality, and meaningful projects, occasionally returning to acting when a role resonates with him.
With a career spanning comedy, drama, and creative exploration, Jim Carrey remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved and influential figures—leaving a lasting legacy both on-screen and off.
FAQ’s
How much did Jim Carrey make for Dumb and Dumber?
Jim Carrey earned $7 million for his role as Lloyd Christmas in Dumb and Dumber, while his co-star Jeff Daniels earned $50,000.
How much was he paid for The Mask?
Carrey made $540,000 for the 1994 hit The Mask, which grossed $352 million worldwide.
Did Jim Carrey sell his Los Angeles mansion?
Yes, after multiple price reductions, Carrey sold his Brentwood mansion for $17 million in 2025, significantly lower than the original listing of $28.9 million.
Is Jim Carrey retired?
Carrey has taken a step back from acting to focus on painting, spiritual life, and quiet living, but he occasionally returns for projects that interest him, like the Sonic the Hedgehog films.
What is his highest-paid film?
His highest-paying film was Yes Man (2008), where he chose profit participation over upfront salary, earning around $30 million from the backend profits.
