The Mask director Chuck Russell dies at 74; his wife, Jim Carrey pay tribute

Chuck Russell, director of The Mask, A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors, and The Blob, died at age 74 on July 22, 2026.

His wife, actor Ania Zeyne, confirmed his death; he died at his home in the San Diego area.

Jim Carrey, star of The Mask, paid tribute, calling it a 'privilege' to work with Russell and praising his warmth and creative vision.

Russell's 1994 film The Mask featured visual effects by George Lucas' Industrial Light & Magic, earning an Academy Award.

Russell fought to cast Cameron Diaz in her feature film debut in The Mask despite concerns about her lack of acting experience.