Jim Carrey to face trial over death of former girlfriend

Lawsuit brought by mother of Cathriona White will not be thrown out.

by Jennie Kermode

Jim Carrey
Jim Carrey Photo: Kevin1230

Yes Man star Jim Carrey has been ordered to attend court on the 26th of April next year in connection with the death of his former girlfriend Cathriona White, a judge ruled yesterday. The actor and comedian faces separate lawsuits filed by White's mother, Brigid Sweetman, and estranged husband, Mark Burton. Both allege that he supplied White with prescription drugs on which she subsequently overdosed, thereby contributing to her death.

White, a make-up artist and stylist who had a history of depression and had previously attempted suicide, died in September 2015. She and Carrey had ended their three year relationship shortly beforehand but were apparently still close, with Carrey insisting that he still loved her. Sweetman has made several additional allegations about Carrey's conduct toward White, accusing him of exploiting and manipulating her and maintaining that she has a letter written by her daughter which supports her side of the story.

The case hinges on whether or not Carrey broke the law by supplying White with medicine which, though not illegal in itself, should only have been provided by a doctor.

Carrey asserts that he could have made the case go away but wishes to defend his honour.

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