Jim Carrey and Taylor Momsen reunited publicly for the first time in 25 years at the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction event in Seattle, celebrating their shared admiration for the legendary band Soundgarden. This Jim Carrey Grinch reunion highlighted their enduring connection, sparked during the filming of the 2000 film How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
Honoring Soundgarden and Celebrating a Musical Legacy
At the ceremony, Carrey delivered an emotional speech to honor Soundgarden as they were inducted into the Hall of Fame. Meanwhile, Momsen joined surviving band members to perform their 1992 track “Rusty Cage,” followed by a collaborative rendition of their 1994 hit “Black Hole Sun” alongside other notable musicians, including Brandi Carlile, Mike McCready from Pearl Jam, and Jerry Cantrell of Alice in Chains. Their participation marked a significant reunion in the spotlight, drawing attention to Seattle’s influential grunge scene.
Memories from the Set of The Grinch
The reunion was poignant, as Carrey played the Grinch, while Momsen portrayed Cindy-Lou Who, the young girl whose innocence ultimately softened the Grinch’s heart. Momsen, who was only seven during filming, recently shared reflections on their time together and the impact Carrey had on her.
“I just love that he was very protective of me,”
she remarked.
“He was always very kind. And just the entire experience of filming Grinch and getting to know him so well, even in all the makeup, was just wonderful.”
Jim Carrey Reflects on Soundgarden’s Influence
Carrey’s connection to Soundgarden runs deep. He recounted how the band helped “resurrect rock & roll” for him during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He vividly recalled his first experience watching them perform their 1996 song “Pretty Noose” live while hosting Saturday Night Live, leading him to personally request them as musical guests for that episode.
“I stood right in front of them, letting the waves of electricity wash over me like an audio baptism,”
Carrey said.
“They pushed me under, and when I came up, I was free.”
Family Tributes and Performances at the Ceremony
Following the performances, surviving Soundgarden members Matt Cameron, Kim Thayil, Ben Shepherd, and original bassist Hiro Yamamoto accepted their induction awards. The ceremony also featured emotional tributes from the family of late frontman Chris Cornell, including his daughters Lily Cornell Silver and Toni Cornell. Lily participated in presenting the award alongside Carrey, while Toni performed a heartfelt rendition of their 1994 song “Fell on Black Days.” Chris Cornell’s passing by suicide in 2017 at age 52 remains a somber backdrop to the celebration.
Other Notable Inductees Recognized
Alongside Soundgarden, the 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees included prominent acts such as Outkast, the White Stripes, Cyndi Lauper, Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker, and Bad Company, highlighting a diverse range of influential artists spanning multiple genres and eras.
The Importance of the Reunion and What Lies Ahead
This Jim Carrey Grinch reunion not only rekindled a cherished on-screen partnership but also underscored the enduring cultural impact of Seattle’s grunge pioneers. Their public gathering at a major musical tribute emphasizes the lasting influence of that era on today’s artists and audiences. As they honor this legacy and their own shared history, fans can look forward to more moments where film and music intersect to celebrate creativity and connection.
