Story of how Jim Carrey lost his $300 million fortune and had no choice but to come out of retirement

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By James Kay

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Jim Carrey is one of the best-loved actors on the planet, but it hasn't always been smooth sailing for him.

Carrey absolutely dominated the 90s and 00s with his movies, most of which were hilarious.

However, there were occasional films that demonstrated his incredible range, such as Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and The Truman Show.

But you may have noticed that in the last decade, he hasn't popped up on the big screen as much.

GettyImages-1389828159.jpgCarrey is a beloved actor. Credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Getty

Well, after amassing an estimated net worth of $300 million, the actor decided to enjoy a quieter pace of life and take a step back from Hollywood.

From 2015 to 2022, he took on only seven major projects, with his role as Dr. Robotnik in Sonic the Hedgehog marking his return to big-budget films since Dumb and Dumber To in 2014.

In 2022, Carrey stunned fans when he told Access Hollywood during the Sonic the Hedgehog 2 press tour: “Well, I’m retiring. Yeah, probably. I’m being fairly serious.”

He elaborated: “It depends. If the angels bring some sort of script that’s written in gold ink that says to me that it’s going to be really important for people to see, I might continue down the road, but I’m taking a break.

“I really like my quiet life and I really like 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.

“I’ve done enough. I am enough.”

GettyImages-1205882148.jpgJim Carrey is set to return in Sonic 3. Credit: Jon Kopaloff/Getty

Despite this heartfelt farewell, Carrey is now set to reprise his role as Dr. Robotnik in Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

The film, which also stars Idris Elba, Keanu Reeves, Ben Schwartz, Krysten Ritter, and James Marsden, marks his return to the franchise.

When asked about his reversal, Carrey admitted via AP Entertainment: “That might’ve been hyperbole, yeah.

“I came back to this universe because I get to play a genius, which is a bit of a stretch. And you know, I bought a lot of stuff and I need the money, frankly.”

He added: “At the same time, it had heart, and that's why I did it the first time. There was something beautiful about the heart of the piece.”

GettyImages-1205887197.jpgCarrey is trying to recoup some of his money. Credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Getty

Reports suggest that Carrey’s financial situation may have influenced his decision.

Realtor.com notes that his Los Angeles mansion, initially listed for $28.9 million in February 2023, has been repeatedly marked down and is now priced at $19 million.

The prolonged sale may have added pressure to his finances.

Reflecting on the home, Carrey told The New York Post: “For three decades it's been a sanctuary for me, but I don't spend a lot of time there now and I want someone else to enjoy it like I have.”

Hopefully, Carrey can recoup some of his money and retire peacefully!

Featured image credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/Getty