Jim Carrey Returned To Acting For Brutally Honest Reason

Entertainment gossip and news from Newsweek’s network of contributors

Jim Carrey is known for his larger-than-life characters, but when it comes to his return to the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, his motivations aren’t exactly what you might expect.

In a candid interview with AP posted to X (formerly known as Twitter) on Tuesday, December 10, Carrey, 62, opened up about his decision to reprise his role as Dr. Robotnik in Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

The actor admitted that while he does enjoy playing the character, his primary reason for returning had more to do with financial need than an artistic desire. “I came back to this universe because, first of all, I get to play a genius. Which is a bit of a stretch,” he joked. “And, you know, it’s just I bought a lot of stuff, and I need the money, frankly.”

Fans loved the honesty of the actor, and left their replies on the post. “I like it when these people are straight with you,” one user noted. Another stated, “Well at least he’s honest.” A third seemed to think the actor was fibbing, and said, “He’s probably just making a joke. I’m sure he has plenty of money.”

Carrey’s confession came two years after he hinted at retiring from acting. In a March 2022 interview with Access Hollywood, Carrey expressed his intention to step away from the spotlight, stating, “I’m retiring. I’m being fairly serious.” He clarified that “it depends if the angels bring some sort of script that’s written in gold ink,” otherwise he’s “taking a break.” At the time, the Truman Show star seemed content with the quieter life he had cultivated, enjoying time away from the hustle of Hollywood, and says that he “has enough”

Carrey might be playing two versions of Doctor Ivo “Eggman” Robotnik in the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 3, but he’s not entirely thrilled about the extra work that comes with it. In a new featurette released by Paramount, Carrey humorously shared his initial excitement about portraying both a younger and older version of the character, only to quickly realize, “Well when they told me I was going to play two Robotniks I was delighted, until I realised I was doing twice the work for the same pay.”

Despite the extra workload, Carrey’s compensation for the role is reportedly the highest of the cast, with rumors suggesting he’s making $12 million.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will be in theaters on December 20, 2024.