Carrey’s four-year stint on “In Living Color” undoubtedly cemented his status as a potential star. The show helped establish him as a major comedic lead, and soon the movie offers started to roll in. It seemed like as soon as the show ended in the year 1994, things only went up.
That same year the actor secured parts in three massive movies. “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective,” “The Mask,” and “Dumb and Dumber.” Within just one year, the actor was earning eight-figure paychecks.
The Breakthrough
After twelve years of auditions and a string of mediocre slapstick comedies, things seriously turned around. In the year 1990, Jim Carrey got his first big break (many more would follow) with the American sketch comedy show "In Living Color."
The show was a fantastic stepping stone for the actor who could now show off his comedy chops on a national television show. Other comedians got their foot in the door with that show too, including the Wayans Brothers and Jamie Foxx. The show was a big hit and ran for an entirety of five seasons. Carrey was in them from start to finish.
In Living Color
"In Living Color" was the first of its kind. In the era of live sketch shows, a group of up-and-coming African American comedians created the show. It was funny, and it facilitated some much-needed representation of American diversity. The show was created by Keenan Ivory Wayans and bred a generation of long-lasting talent.
The show starred the Wayans siblings (Damon Wayans and Marlon Wayans), Jamie Foxx, Jim Carrey, and even Jennifer Lopez appeared. The show ran for four years, from April 15, 1990, to May 19, 1994.
The King of Physical Comedy
Jim Carrey was now officially in the mainstream and was making his mark with countless memorable roles. Already immortalizing himself as a high-energy, almost cartoon character. Carrey was becoming one of the hottest and most quotable stars in the biz.
More movies such as "The Cable Guy, "Dumb and Dumber" further strengthened his place as the slapstick comedy king. Carrey then blew audiences away as the green-faced "smokin'" Dirty Harry loving character in "The Mask."
Blockbuster Magnet
Evidently, Carrey's career was in no way slowing down, and if the year 1994 were lucky, the next few years would be magical. The actor landed more movie roles throughout the late 90s and 2000s. Some of his most iconic films were "Liar Liar," "Cable Guy," "Batman Forever," and of course, the 1998 film, "The Truman Show."
"The Truman Show" allowed Carrey to showcase his hidden dramatic acting abilities. The unique plot required both immense comedic skill as well as a dramatic touch. This is what truly made Jim Carrey enter a new realm.