Paris [France], February 27 (HBTV): Actor Jim Carrey received the honorary award at the 51st edition of France's Cesar Awards ceremony on Thursday. At the event, the actor delivered an emotional speech entirely in French, Variety reported.
According to the outlet, Carrey, known for his roles in The Mask and How the Grinch Stole Christmas, was honoured with the award traditionally presented to an international star, such as last year’s recipient Julia Roberts.
He was introduced on stage by Michel Gondry, who directed him in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind in 2004.
In his acceptance speech, Carrey said, ‘As an actor, each character you play is like clay in the sculptor's hands, which you shape to your heart's desire. How fortunate I have been to share this art with so many people who have truly opened their hearts to me,’ as quoted by Variety.
The actor attended the ceremony with his daughter Jane, grandson Jackson and girlfriend Mina.
‘Thank you to my wonderful family, my daughter Jane, and my grandson Jackson. I love you now and forever. Thank you to my sublime companion, Mina. I love you, Mina. And finally, thank you to the funniest man I have ever known: my father, Percy Joseph Carrey, who taught me the value of love, generosity and laughter,’ Carrey said, as quoted by Variety.
At the end of his speech, he asked the audience, ‘So, how was my French? Almost mediocre, right? Forgive me, I didn't speak French, but I'm just learning it. My tongue is tired.’
Born in Canada, Carrey began his career as a stand-up comedian before gaining popularity on the television show In Living Color. In 1994, he became a global star with three consecutive hits — Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask and Dumb and Dumber, Deadline reported.
He later earned critical acclaim for his performances in The Truman Show, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Man on the Moon, winning two Golden Globe Awards.
According to Deadline, in 2010, Carrey was made a Knight in France's National Order of Arts and Letters for his contribution to art and cinema.
He has also received the Charlie Chaplin Award at the BAFTA Britannia Awards for his work in comedies such as Liar Liar, Bruce Almighty and How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
(ANI)