Jim Carrey Thanks 'Sublime Companion' Mina After Emotional French Speech at César Awards

Jim Carrey accepted this year’s honorary César at the 51st edition of France’s César Awards and delivered an emotional speech entirely in French, thanking family members including his daughter Jane, his grandson Jackson and his girlfriend Mina.

Standing ovation at the 51st César Awards

Carrey brought the crème de la crème of French cinema to their feet at the 51st edition of the César Awards when he received the ceremony’s honorary award, a prize traditionally given to an international star such as last year’s Julia Roberts.

Jim Carrey Delivers Speech in French

He spoke in French, with a thick American accent, and framed acting as a hands-on craft: "As an actor, each character you play is like clay in the sculptor’s hands, which you shape to your heart’s desire. How fortunate I have been to share this art with so many people who have truly opened their hearts to me. " The speech was delivered entirely in French and drew clear emotional reaction from the audience.

Introduced by Michel Gondry, tied to "Eternal Sunshine"

Michel Gondry introduced Carrey on stage; Gondry directed Carrey in "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" 22 years ago, a connection Carrey noted in his remarks that touched on his career and collaborators.

Family, ancestry and a play on words

Carrey told the audience that "about 300 years ago, (his) great, great, great, great, great, great-grandfather, Marc-François Carré, yes, Carré, was born in France, in Saint Malo" and emigrated to Canada. He said, "Tonight with this magnificent honor, this square (carré in French) has come full circle. " Carrey also thanked specific family members by name: "Thank you to my wonderful family, my daughter Jane, and my grandson Jackson. I love you now and forever. Thank you to my sublime companion, Mina. I love you, Mina. And finally, thank you to the funniest man I have ever known: my father. Percy Joseph Carrey who taught me the value of love, generosity, and laughter. "

Closing line: "My tongue is tired"

At the end of his speech Carrey asked the audience, "So, how was my French? Almost mediocre, right? Forgive me, I didn't speak French, but I'm just learning it. My tongue is tired. " The remark closed an evening in which he combined personal history, gratitude and an effort to address the French film community in their language.

What happens next is unclear in the provided context.