Jim Carrey pays tribute to late ‘The Mask’ director Chuck Russell
Jim Carrey has shared a heart-warming tribute to Chuck Russell, whom he worked closely with on the 1994 comedy movie, The Mask.
Russell, who was also known for directing Eraser and Scorpion King, passed away at the age of 74 on July 22nd in the San Diego area.
His passing was confirmed by his attorney, while no official cause of death has been shared. However, his passing was discovered after the local fire department had responded to his house while responding to reports of an unconscious man.
In a tribute shared with TMZ, Carrey has now reflected on his time working alongside the director: “I consider it a privilege to have worked with Chuck Russell,” the beloved star began.
He added that “during the shooting of The Mask, [Russell] created an ebullient, childlike atmosphere of wonder and camaraderie on his set.”
Carrey added, “The entire cast and crew were touched and inspired by his playfulness. Every one of us has been many years blessed by that buoyant and timeless moment.”
The 64-year-old signed off, “I consider The Mask one of the jewels of my creative life. Thank you, Chuck.”
The Mask featured Jim Carrey as Stanley Ipkiss and Cameron Diaz in her feature film acting debut.
It follows Ipkiss, a shy bank clerk, who happens upon a magical wooden mask that has powers which can transform him into a green-faced trickster, exploring human duality, power, and greed.
It grossed around $351.8 million worldwide on an $18–23 million budget and even gained an Oscar nod for Visual Special Effects, becoming a roaring success for everyone involved.
After The Mask, Russell went on to direct the 1988 horror film The Blob and 1996’s Eraser starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as a US marshal. The film also featured James Caan and Vanessa Williams.
Norris is survived by his wife of 19 years, Ania, and his three children, Logan, Riley, and Carlyn.
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