Jim Carrey surprises audience at César Awards with hidden skill

Jim Carrey charmed the Paris audience with his thoughtful gesture during a rare public outing.

The iconic Canadian-American actor and comedian didn’t just earn France’s most prestigious cinematic honour, recognising a lifetime of achievement, but also won hearts at César night.

On Thursday, February 26, The Mask star received the Honorary César Award (César d’honneur) during the 51st edition of the César Awards ceremony held at the historic L’Olympia theatre in Paris, France.

At the glamorous event, the 64-year-old actor was celebrated as "one of the most original voices in modern cinema" and for his "exceptional contributions" to the industry, spanning from slapstick comedy to deep dramatic roles.

However, one moment from the special night left everyone in awe. Carrey’s French speech after he was introduced by director Michel Gondry, who collaborated with him on the acclaimed film Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004).

The How the Grinch Stole Christmas actor delivered his entire acceptance speech in French, joking that his proficiency was "almost mediocre".

He called his new honour a full circle tribute to his roots. “About 300 years ago, [my] great, great, great, great, great, great-grandfather, Marc-François Carré, yes, Carré, was born in France, in Saint Malo [and emigrated to Canada],” The Truman Show lead explained in a thick American accent.

“Tonight with this magnificent honour, this square [carré in French] has come full circle,” he added.

Carrey attended the glitzy ceremony with his daughter Jane, grandson Jackson, and girlfriend Mina.