Jim Carrey delivered a heartfelt speech in French while receiving an honorary award at the César Awards in Paris on Thursday, February 26. The 64-year-old comedy legend expressed deep gratitude, addressing his loved ones and reflecting on his career during this special moment.
Joining Carrey on stage were his daughter Jane, 38, her teenage son Jackson, and a woman he referred to as his companion, Min Ah. Carrey spoke warmly about each of them, highlighting their importance in his life and earning applause from the audience for his affectionate remarks.
Thank you to my wonderful family, my daughter Jane, and my grandson Jackson. I love you now and forever. Thank you to my sublime companion, Min Ah,
he said in French as they were acknowledged.
I love you, Min Ah. And finally, thank you to the funniest man I have ever known: my father, Percy Joseph Carrey who taught me the value of love, generosity, and laughter.
– Jim Carrey
Carrey’s partner Min Ah has kept a low public profile; she was previously identified as Minzi, an actress and artist based in Los Angeles. They were seen together leaving a charity comedy show hosted by Judd Apatow in 2022, confirming their close relationship.
Jim Carrey is the father of Jane with his former wife Melissa Womer, whom he was married to from 1987 until 1995. Later, he was married briefly to actress Lauren Holly, his co-star from Dumb and Dumber, from 1996 to 1997.
French Academy Recognizes Carrey’s Versatile Career
In the fall of 2024, the French Academy announced Jim Carrey as the honorary recipient of the 2025 César Award, commending his exceptional range in film and television. Carrey embraced the honor with characteristic humor, ending his speech with a light-hearted comment about his French-speaking abilities.
Almost mediocre, right? Forgive me, I didn’t speak French, but I’m just learning it. My tongue is tired,
he joked, according to a translation.
This moment marked a meaningful departure from Carrey’s usual on-camera performances, bringing a personal and intimate tone to the event. His effort to speak French was seen as a gesture of respect to the awarding body and the audience in Paris.
From Hollywood Stardom to Personal Fulfillment
In recent years, Jim Carrey has retreated somewhat from his high-profile film career, choosing instead to focus on quieter passions. Most recently known for his role as Dr. Robotnik in the Sonic the Hedgehog movies, he has indicated a serious interest in retiring from acting to concentrate on his art and spiritual life.
I really like my quiet life, and I really love putting paint on canvas, and I really love my spiritual life, and I feel like — and this is something you might never hear another celebrity say as long as time exists – I have enough,
Carrey shared during promotion for the Sonic sequel in 2022.
I’ve done enough. I am enough.
The awards ceremony and Carrey’s speech underscored this new chapter where personal happiness and expression take precedence over traditional fame and box office success. His recognition by the French Academy can be seen as a celebration not just of his past achievements but also of his ongoing evolution as an artist and public figure.
Significance of Carrey’s César Awards Appearance
Jim Carrey’s César Awards speech in French highlights a rare glimpse into his private life and current outlook. This heartfelt moment in Paris connects his legacy as a versatile performer with his present focus on family and personal growth. Fans and observers may view this as a possible farewell to his high-profile career in Hollywood, embracing a more introspective path.
The César Awards honored a figure who has shaped comedy and film for decades, while Carrey’s vulnerable, sincere remarks suggest he is at peace with the directions life is taking him. The event may inspire further reflection on the balance between public success and private fulfillment among other entertainers.
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