Jim Carrey's publicist has quashed viral claims that an impersonator stood in for the actor at the César Awards, confirming it was the real star who attended the Paris ceremony to accept his honorary award.
The confusion arose from footage of the 51st César Awards on 26 February, where the 64-year-old collected a lifetime achievement honour. Conspiracy theories spread online as some viewers claimed he looked unrecognisable, prompting suggestions of a body double or clone.
Drag performer Alexis Stone added to the buzz with a social media post that appeared to take credit for the appearance.
The Instagram Post that Ignited the Frenzy
The rumours gained momentum after Alexis Stone, the makeup artist and drag queen famous for his transformative celebrity looks, posted on his verified Instagram account. The entry featured photos from the awards alongside a display of prosthetics including a mask, dentures, wig and makeup items against a Paris hotel room view.
Captioned 'Alexis Stone as Jim Carrey in Paris', the post left followers debating whether it was a genuine claim or a clever joke. Stone is known for his detailed makeovers of stars such as Jennifer Coolidge and Donatella Versace, but unlike previous efforts, no video tutorial accompanied this one.
The internet was divided, with some believing the transformation while others noted the final image's AI-like qualities and the Eiffel Tower in the background. Reactions from celebrities only heightened the online chatter. The timing coincided with Carrey's rare public outing this year.
'Jim Carrey attended the Cesar Awards, where he accepted his Honorary Cesar Award,' said his publicist Marleah Leslie in a statement that cut through the speculation.
César Awards Delegate Provides Proof of Authentic Attendance
Gregory Caulier, general delegate of the César Academy, quickly labelled the theories a non-issue and shared extensive details to prove the actor's presence. 'Jim Carrey's visit has been planned since this summer,' he explained. 'From the outset, he was extremely touched by the Academy's invitation. Eight months of ongoing, constructive discussions. He worked on his speech in French for months, asking me about the exact pronunciation of certain words.'
Caulier noted that Carrey was joined by his partner, daughter, grandson and 12 close friends and family, including longtime publicist and collaborator Michel Gondry. The actor's French speech, touching on his Saint-Malo ancestry and father, was prepared with care and delivered with emotion, making the occasion historic for the French film honours.
France's equivalent of the Oscars recognised Carrey for his exuberant characters that have defined popular culture. Caulier praised the star's kindness and elegance throughout the eight-month planning period.
Publicist's Statement Seals the Matter
Leslie's direct confirmation matched the academy's account exactly, effectively ending the days-long social media storm. Carrey avoided the press line but engaged fully in the event, which included a witty host impersonation of his famous The Mask role.
No evidence emerged to support the clone theories beyond the initial viral post. As confirmation spreads that it was really Jim Carrey at the César Awards, the episode illustrates the speed of digital rumours, even around an actor famed for his shape-shifting performances. The incident serves as a timely reminder of the enduring fascination with Carrey's chameleon-like persona, both on and off screen.
