Jim Carrey Jokes About Returning to Acting “For the Money” Ahead of New Sonic Film

Jim Carrey is back on the big screen, and the 62-year-old actor isn’t shying away from making light of his decision. While promoting Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Carrey jokingly told reporters that his return was fueled by financial necessity after some lavish spending.

“I came back to this universe because, first of all, I get to play a genius, which is a bit of a stretch,” Carrey quipped to the Associated Press. “And, you know, it’s just … I bought a lot of stuff and I need the money, frankly.”

Carrey reprises his role as the eccentric villain Dr. Robotnik in the upcoming semi-animated blockbuster, hitting theaters on December 20. This marks his third outing in the Sonic franchise, following successful installments in 2020 and 2022.

The Ace Ventura and The Mask star had previously declared his intent to retire while promoting Sonic the Hedgehog 2. “I feel like — and this is something you might never hear another celebrity say as long as time exists — I have enough. I’ve done enough. I am enough,” he told Access.

Carrey, who became the first actor to earn $20 million for a single film with 1996’s The Cable Guy, amassed a fortune exceeding $180 million over his career. His largest payday was a staggering $30 million for 2008’s Yes Man, a deal that gave him a stake in the film’s profits. Despite this, Carrey cited his artistic and spiritual life as reasons for stepping away from Hollywood.

In a 2018 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Carrey admitted he became disillusioned with the film industry. “I didn’t like what was happening, the corporations taking over and all that,” he said, explaining his shift toward painting and other creative outlets.

Though his return for Sonic 3 may be temporary, Carrey is also expected to star in David Robert Mitchell’s upcoming film Evergreen Pines and the Fading Summer, now in pre-production. Whether his comedic genius graces the big screen for years to come remains to be seen, but for now, fans can enjoy another round of Carrey’s signature antics.