Jim Carrey Reflects on His ‘Last Great Love’ with Renee Zellweger
The romance between actors Jim Carrey and Renee Zellweger, which blossomed during the filming of the 1999 comedy Me, Myself & Irene, has resurfaced in public discussions as Carrey recently referred to Zellweger as his “last great love.” This reflection comes two decades after their relationship ended in December 2000, raising questions about what transpired between the two stars.
How Their Romance Began
According to producer Bobby Farrelly, Carrey was infatuated with Zellweger from the moment they met. Farrelly noted that Carrey, then 37, “flipped for her immediately,” while Zellweger, who was 30 at the time, took longer to warm up to the idea of romance. In a 2000 interview with CNN, she shared, “I liked him, a lot, but you’re not going to the set for the love connection.”
As filming concluded, their relationship began to develop. Zellweger later admitted she initially dismissed the rumors about their romance but found herself missing Carrey after they had spent time apart.
Duration and Impact of Their Relationship
The relationship lasted just over a year, spanning the turn of the millennium. One charming anecdote from this period involves Zellweger preparing for her role in the first Bridget Jones film. While working undercover at a London publishing company, she displayed a framed photo of Carrey on her desk, leading colleagues to realize her true identity much later.
Their split was confirmed by publicists in December 2000, with a statement indicating that the couple had different goals. Speculation suggests that Carrey desired marriage, while Zellweger did not. Carrey’s representative described the situation as a “private matter.”
Both actors have reflected positively on their time together. Carrey noted in a 2000 interview with Entertainment Weekly that Zellweger had a profound impact on his perspective on life and relationships. “She’s a very connected person,” he remarked, emphasizing her ability to appreciate the simple joys of life.
Zellweger echoed these sentiments, describing their connection as “unexpected” and “wonderful.” She expressed how she felt his absence significantly after they stopped seeing each other.
The Legacy of Their Relationship
Two decades later, Carrey’s feelings for Zellweger remain evident. In his book, Memoirs and Misinformation, he referred to her as his “last great love.” During a 2020 interview with Howard Stern on SiriusXM, Carrey elaborated on his enduring affection, stating, “She definitely was special to me, very special, I think she’s lovely.” When asked if he regretted how things turned out, he indicated that he appreciates the relationships that have shaped his life without holding on to regret.
Both stars have moved on since their romance. Zellweger has continued to thrive, starring in multiple Bridget Jones films and entering a new chapter of her life with television presenter Ant Anstead. She has also navigated her share of high-profile relationships, including with Bradley Cooper and a brief marriage to country singer Kenny Chesney.
Carrey, on the other hand, dated actress Jenny McCarthy for five years and faced personal tragedy with the loss of his on-off girlfriend, Cathriona White, in 2015. Currently single, Carrey’s past, including his time with Zellweger, continues to resonate with him.
As both actors reflect on their individual journeys, it is clear that their brief but impactful romance left a lasting impression in the hearts of fans and the media alike.
