Get ready to hear that heart grow three sizes again—Jim Carrey is officially slipping back into that green latex suit for a sequel to How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The 2000 live-action holiday juggernaut, which raked in $351 million worldwide and became a seasonal streaming staple, is getting a follow-up nearly three decades later.
According to reports, Carrey is in talks to reprise his role as the curmudgeonly creature, once again enduring hours of green-dyed yak hair and prosthetics. Director Ron Howard and producer Brian Grazer, both of whom worked on the original, are also returning for the sleigh ride. The sequel's script has been penned by Alec Berg (Barry), Jeff Schaffer (Curb Your Enthusiasm), and David Mandel (Veep)—a trio with experience adapting Dr. Seuss, having written the 2003 film The Cat in the Hat starring Mike Myers. That film was less warmly received, but the team is hoping to recapture the magic of the Grinch's first live-action outing.
The original How the Grinch Stole Christmas wasn't a critical darling, but it was the top-grossing movie in America in 2000 and has remained a holiday favorite, especially on streaming platforms as the season approaches. Carrey's performance as the green grouch with a heart of gold (eventually) became iconic, and fans have long clamored for a sequel.
This reunion marks another chapter in Carrey's career resurgence. The actor, who recently made headlines for his role in Sonic the Hedgehog and its sequels, has been selective about projects. His return to Whoville is a major get for the franchise, especially given the original's enduring popularity. For those who loved Carrey's earlier comedic risks, check out how Jim Carrey's Mask gamble paid off.
The sequel also brings together a creative team with deep comedy roots. Berg, Schaffer, and Mandel have each worked on acclaimed series like Barry, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Veep, suggesting the sequel will blend heart with sharp humor. While the original film was directed by Howard and produced by Grazer, the new script aims to expand the world of Whoville while staying true to Dr. Seuss's beloved story.
Fans of holiday movies and Carrey's unique brand of physical comedy have reason to celebrate. The sequel is expected to begin production soon, with a release likely timed for the 2026 holiday season. In the meantime, viewers can revisit the original on streaming services or catch Carrey in other projects, like the upcoming streaming-era reboot of The Cable Guy.
As for the Grinch's return, one thing is certain: this Christmas, his heart might just grow a little more—and so will the box office.
