Jim Carrey on Chuck Russell ‘The Mask’ director had a major impact on the path to stardom
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Jim Carrey is saddened by the sudden death of the director of “The Mask” Chuck Russell …and he explained why their bond was so deep.
Jim tells TMZ… “I consider it a privilege to have worked with Chuck Russell, who, during the filming of ‘The Mask,’ created an exuberant, childlike atmosphere of wonder and camaraderie on his set.”
Jim continues… “The entire cast and crew were touched and inspired by its playfulness. Each of us has been blessed for many years by this dynamic and timeless moment. I consider ‘The Mask’ one of the jewels of my creative life. Thank you, Chuck.”
As most fans know…Jim was catapulted to superstardom thanks to his trio of ’90s blockbusters, starting with “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective”…then “The Mask”, followed by “Dumber & Dumber”.
TMZ broke the news…Chuck died suddenly at his San Diego area home on Wednesday…emergency crews responded to an unspecified medical emergency.
Russell enjoyed a distinguished career as a director, screenwriter and producer after graduating from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
He made his directorial debut with “A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors” in 1987 – and wrote and directed the cult horror film “The Blob” in 1988.
He not only directed “The Mask”… but also collaborated with George LucasIndustrial Light and Magic to help create groundbreaking digital technologies combining live performances with completely new visual effects concepts. In fact, his work on the film earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects.
His last film was a remake of the 1986 film “Witchboard”, which he wrote and directed in 2024.
He leaves to mourn Aniahis wife of 19 years; his three children, Logan, RileyAnd Carlyne; ex-wife Patti Rao; and his sister Anne Jacob.
Russell was 74 years old.
RIP