Jim Carrey back in the spotlight as ‘The Grinch’ sequel rumours refuse to die

Jim Carrey is back in the spotlight once again, as fresh chatter about a possible The Grinch sequel collides with a major career honour set to take place later this month.

The renewed speculation comes as Carrey prepares to receive an honorary César in France, reigniting long-running questions about whether the actor is stepping away from Hollywood or simply waiting for the right role to pull him back.

The Grinch sequel rumours resurface

Interest in a follow-up to The Grinch has flared up following new comments from Taylor Momsen, who played Cindy Lou Who in the 2000 film.

Momsen said she is not aware of any sequel currently in development, cooling expectations while stopping short of closing the door entirely. She described the original movie as a stand-alone classic and suggested that any return would depend on the right creative circumstances.

That careful wording has fuelled another cycle of speculation, with fans reading “not right now” as something very different from “never”.

Why the rumours keep returning

Sequel talk around The Grinch has lingered for years, driven by Carrey’s iconic performance, the film’s annual resurgence every holiday season and an industry increasingly focused on reviving familiar titles.

Carrey himself has previously joked about being asked about a sequel year after year, which has only kept the conversation alive. For fans, the character’s appeal often outweighs concerns about whether a follow-up is necessary.

A major career honour shifts attention

While online chatter centres on franchise speculation, Carrey has a confirmed milestone approaching. He is set to receive an honorary César in Paris on Thursday, February 27, 2026 (ET), a lifetime achievement honour awarded by France’s film academy.

The recognition highlights the full scope of Carrey’s career, from physical comedy to dramatic and experimental roles that reshaped how audiences viewed his range as a performer.

The timing is notable, arriving during a period when Carrey’s screen appearances have become increasingly selective.

‘Power resting’ rather than retirement

Carrey’s retirement narrative has followed him largely because he introduced it himself, before later reframing the idea.

He has described his approach as “power resting”, explaining that he will only return for projects that feel genuinely worthwhile. The distinction leaves room for future work without committing to a full retirement.

What comes next remains unclear

For now, Carrey’s immediate future appears defined more by possibility than confirmation. His most recent franchise role came in the Sonic film series, where his villain performance proved popular with audiences.

Another instalment is scheduled for March 2027, though casting and story details remain under wraps, including whether Carrey will return.

At present, there is no The Grinch sequel in active development. What is clear is that Jim Carrey remains firmly in the conversation, with nostalgia, prestige and unanswered questions keeping his name in the spotlight.