Story perspectives

Jim Carrey's Grinch Makeup: Panic Attacks and $20M Salary Threat

12/16/2025

Summary

Story summary

Jim Carrey, the actor, faced extreme makeup challenges during the 2000 film How the Grinch Stole Christmas, nearly quitting after an eight-hour session and threatening to return his $20 million salary.
The intense makeup caused him discomfort, including panic attacks, prompting the production to enlist Richard Marcinko, a specialist in endurance training for military personnel.
Carrey coped by listening to Bee Gees music.
The film grossed over $346 million worldwide.

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Story summary

Jim Carrey, the actor, faced extreme makeup challenges during the 2000 film How the Grinch Stole Christmas, nearly quitting after an eight-hour session and threatening to return his $20 million salary.
The intense makeup caused him discomfort, including panic attacks, prompting the production to enlist Richard Marcinko, a specialist in endurance training for military personnel.
Carrey coped by listening to Bee Gees music.
The film grossed over $346 million worldwide.