Jim Carrey is remembering Chuck Russell, the director of the 1994 hit film "The Mask." Russell died on Wednesday at the age of 74, his wife Ania confirmed to The New York Times.
"I consider it a privilege to have worked with Chuck Russell, who during the shooting of ‘The Mask,’ created an ebullient, childlike atmosphere of wonder and camaraderie on his set," Carrey said in a statement. He added that the cast and crew "were touched and inspired by his playfulness," and that the film remains "one of the jewels of [his] creative life."
Russell, who died in San Diego, was also known for directing films such as "A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors" (1987), "The Blob" (1988), "Eraser" (1996) and "The Scorpion King" (2002). His most recent work was the 2024 film "Witchboard," for which he served as writer, director and producer.
"The Mask" was a significant success for Carrey, released in the same year he also starred in "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" and "Dumb and Dumber." The film follows Stanley Ipkiss, a bank clerk who transforms into the mischievous, green-faced Mask after donning a magical mask. Cameron Diaz co-starred as Tina Carlyle.
Carrey has recently taken a step back from Hollywood, contributing his voice to the "Sonic the Hedgehog" film series and appearing as himself in the 2025 documentary "Starring Dick Van Dyke."