and Brian to come in, and I told them that I wouldn’t be able to do the movie and I was quitting.”
Torture Training
Carrey’s decision to quit stemmed from a conversation with Howard and Grazer after he agreed to spend time with a specialist Grazer had found. This man, who trained CIA officers on enduring torture, provided Carrey with tools to cope with the physically demanding role.
“He gave me a litany of things that I could do when I began to spiral,” said Carrey. “Some of those tools were ‘Eat everything in sight,’ ‘Changing patterns in the room,’ and if there’s a TV on, turn it off and turn the radio on.” Other tactics included more extreme measures such as “punch myself in the leg as hard as I can” and “have a friend that I trust and punch him in the arm.”
Preparation for the Role
The preparation involved not only psychological training but also physical discomfort. Carrey detailed his outfit, which included an itchy suit, 10-inch nails, and contact lenses that covered the entire eyeball.
“I will give all my money back,” Carrey added, expressing his willingness to compensate for any financial loss incurred by the studio due to his initial hesitation.
Impact on the Film
Carrey’s portrayal of the Grinch was widely celebrated in the 2000 live-action adaptation. His performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination and contributed significantly to the film’s success, bringing in $347,522,208 at the worldwide box office according to The Numbers.
The actor’s openness about his experience has provided insight into the intense preparation required for such demanding roles. Carrey’s willingness to share these details not only humanizes his process but also sheds light on the lengths actors go through to bring their characters to life.
