In a remarkable run of box office success, 18-year-old actor Mason Thames has achieved a feat not seen in Hollywood for over three decades. With three of his films hitting number one at the box office in 2025, Thames has become the first actor since Jim Carrey in 1994 to land a cinematic hat trick in a single year.
Mason Thames On Impressive Box Office Streak
Thames’s impressive streak includes the live-action adaptation How to Train Your Dragon, the horror sequel The Black Phone 2, and the heartfelt drama Regretting You. This trifecta of hits has propelled the young actor into elite company, matching Carrey’s legendary 1994 run when he starred in Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask, and Dumb and Dumber.
A Quiet Rise to the Top
While Carrey’s fame was built on explosive comedy, Thames has captivated audiences with a quiet intensity that has proven to be just as effective. When he first heard about the comparison to the iconic comedian, Thames admitted he thought it was a joke. “It was wild,” he said. “It was crazy to be even in the same conversation as Jim Carrey. He’s such an icon for me.”
Thames first gained widespread recognition for his role as Finney in the 2022 surprise horror hit The Black Phone. His return to the character in the sequel was a key part of his 2025 success. The actor has shown remarkable versatility, moving seamlessly between genres and demonstrating a maturity beyond his years. His thoughtful approach to his career is evident in his choices, as he gravitates toward projects with compelling characters and stories.
A Character-Driven Approach
Despite being crowned Hollywood’s newest “Scream King” by some, Thames isn’t limiting himself to one genre. “I’m a character person,” he explained. “If I fall in love with that character and the story, I’m in, whether that’s horror, romance or action.” This philosophy has guided him to work with respected filmmakers and veteran actors like Ethan Hawke, whom he credits as a mentor.
After a whirlwind year, Thames is taking a rare break at his home in Texas before he begins filming How to Train Your Dragon 2. As his star continues to rise, the young actor remains focused on his craft, aiming to work with people who challenge him and create memorable films. With a historic year behind him and a bright future ahead, Mason Thames has solidified his place as one of Hollywood’s most promising new talents.
