Following widespread online criticism of Jim Carrey’s appearance at the César Awards in Paris last month, celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Terry Dubrow has stepped forward to defend the actor. Dubrow described the harsh public scrutiny as “so mean” and “really uncool,” emphasizing the unnecessary negativity surrounding the comedian’s look during the event on February 26.
During a discussion on Tori Spelling’s misSpelling podcast, Dubrow revealed that many paparazzi had been asking for his opinion on Carrey’s appearance ever since the actor accepted the honorary César d’honneur at the 51st ceremony. The surgeon expressed frustration about the fixation on Carrey’s changing looks rather than his achievements.
Understanding Changes in Appearance and Public Reaction
Dubrow acknowledged that Carrey, now 64, appears different from how audiences have long been used to seeing him but clarified that this does not diminish his overall look. Commenting on the public reaction, he said,
“All they want to do is talk about the way poor Jim Carrey looks,”
and added,
“It’s like, what do you say when you’re confronted with that stuff? It’s so mean, right?”
He also expressed his personal view, stating,
“I still think he looks great,”
while maintaining that he does not know whether Carrey has undergone any cosmetic procedures.
Explaining potential reasons for a changed appearance, Dubrow noted that swelling and other post-procedural effects can take a long time to subside, which may temporarily alter how someone looks.
Criticism of Medical Professionals Joining the Online Backlash
Dr. Dubrow’s strongest criticism was directed at fellow plastic surgeons who publicly speculated about Carrey’s facial features. He condemned these professionals for what he viewed as an unfair, invasive analysis of Carrey’s appearance. He said,
“Every plastic surgeon in the world is going online and talking about, ‘There’s less skin in his upper eyelids and his brows are higher,’ and they’re, like, dissecting him with a microscope, which is so unfair, I think, and uncool.”
He described such commentary as a form of body-shaming and urged people to consider the human impact of these harsh judgments, reminding listeners,
“He’s kind of our national comedic treasure. Can’t we be a little more kind?”
He also remarked,
“So, if you’re human, it bugs you, and I just think it’s really uncool.”
Social Media Speculation and Official Responses
The backlash intensified when clips from Carrey’s red carpet interviews circulated widely, prompting some social media users to speculate that the person collecting the award was an impersonator or even a clone. These claims were quickly dismissed. Marleah Leslie, Carrey’s representative, confirmed to Page Six that the actor himself was present at the ceremony.
Gregory Caulier, general delegate of the César Awards, described Carrey’s attendance as “a historic moment.” Speaking to Variety, Caulier noted that Carrey had been “extremely touched” by the Academy’s invitation and that the visit had been arranged since the previous summer.
Significance of the Event and Potential Lasting Impact
The controversy highlights the pressures and public expectations placed on celebrities, particularly regarding appearance. Dr. Dubrow’s defense emphasizes the need for kindness and understanding, especially toward individuals like Carrey, who have made significant cultural contributions. Moving forward, this incident may encourage more respectful discussions about public figures, focusing on their work rather than scrutinizing their physical changes.
