Jim Carrey pays tribute to The Mask director Chuck Russell after his death

Jim Carrey has paid tribute to director Chuck Russell following his unexpected death at the age of 73.

In a statement shared with People, Carrey said working with Russell on the 1994 hit film The Mask was "a privilege". He praised the director for creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere on set.

"I consider it a privilege to have worked with Chuck Russell, who during the shooting of The Mask, created an ebullient, childlike atmosphere of wonder and camaraderie on his set," Carrey said. "The entire cast and crew were touched and inspired by his playfulness."

Carrey added that The Mask remains one of the highlights of his career, saying: "I consider The Mask one of the jewels of my creative life. Thank you, Chuck."

Russell died unexpectedly at his home in the San Diego area on 22 July, according to his family. Emergency services responded to reports of an unconscious man, but a cause of death has not been announced.

Russell made his directing debut with A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors (1987) and later directed The Blob (1988), The Mask (1994), Eraser (1996) and The Scorpion King (2002), which was Dwayne Johnson's first leading film role. He was known for directing films across the horror, action and comedy genres.