Who Is Melissa Womer?
Melissa Womer is a former American actress and producer, best known for her brief role as a waitress in the biographical film Man on the Moon. While she has her own professional accomplishments, Melissa is most widely recognised for her marriage to Golden Globe-winning actor and comedian Jim Carrey. The two were married for eight years before parting ways, but Melissa’s story extends far beyond their high-profile relationship.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Melissa Womer’s early life, acting career, personal life, and what she’s been up to since stepping away from the spotlight.
Early Life and Background
Melissa Womer was born on 8 July 1960 in New York City. She spent her formative years in the same area, attending both primary and secondary school locally. She later enrolled at the University of Kansas, where she began to nurture her comedic talents while writing for the local radio station Q104.
Although not much is publicly known about her parents or siblings, it’s clear that Melissa’s sense of humour and creative flair took root early on.
Age and Nationality
As of 2025, Melissa is 64 years old and will turn 65 later this year. Born and raised in the United States, she holds American nationality.
Melissa Womer’s Career in Entertainment
After completing her studies, Melissa made the move to Hollywood in pursuit of a career in entertainment. She initially worked as a cocktail waitress at a comedy club on Sunset Boulevard, immersing herself in the comedy scene that would eventually shape her future.
Early Roles and Producing Work
Melissa made her first television appearance in 1974 on the legal drama series Petrocelli. Her producing credits include:
-
The Yesterday Show with John Kerwin
-
Real Stories of the Donut Men (a mockumentary released in 1997)
Her most recognised acting role came in 1999, when she played a waitress in Man on the Moon, a film centred around the life of comedian Andy Kaufman.
Melissa Womer and Jim Carrey: A High-Profile Marriage
Melissa met Jim Carrey in 1987 while working on the comedy set of Man on the Moon. At the time, Jim was still on the rise in Hollywood, and Melissa played a supportive role as he navigated the early stages of his career. The couple tied the knot on 28 March 1987 at the Hotel Mahi-Mahi in Santa Monica, California.
Their Daughter: Jane Carrey
Later that same year, on 6 September 1987, Melissa gave birth to their daughter, Jane Erin Carrey. Jane is their only child and has pursued a career in entertainment herself. A talented singer, she appeared as a contestant on American Idol and has since continued working in music. Jane later married Alex Santana, and the couple have a son named Jackson Riley Santana.
Divorce from Jim Carrey
After eight years of marriage, Melissa and Jim divorced in 1995. The reported reason behind the split was the strain caused by Jim’s growing fame and demanding career. Though their relationship ended, both remained committed to co-parenting Jane.
Jim Carrey is said to have paid over $3.5 million as part of the divorce settlement, and he reportedly contributed more than $7 million over the years to support their daughter.
In 1996, Jim remarried—this time to actress Lauren Holly—but the union lasted less than a year.
Life After Divorce
Following her divorce, Melissa opted for a quieter life away from media attention. She focused on raising her daughter, who was just eight years old at the time. Melissa continued to support Jane’s aspirations in the music industry and has largely remained out of the public eye since.
She is believed to be residing in Hollywood, Los Angeles, keeping a low profile and dedicating herself to her family.
Melissa Womer’s Net Worth
There is some variation in the reported figures regarding Melissa’s net worth. Estimates range from $4 million to $7 million. While a significant portion of her wealth stems from her work in the entertainment industry, the divorce settlement from Jim Carrey also played a considerable role in building her financial foundation.
Conclusion
Melissa Womer’s life story is one of resilience, creativity, and quiet strength. Although her marriage to Jim Carrey brought her public attention, she has successfully forged her own identity—as a producer, actress, and, above all, a devoted mother.
She played a key role in supporting both her ex-husband’s rise and her daughter’s career in music. Despite the challenges that came her way, Melissa has handled her journey with grace and has chosen to live life on her own terms—away from the spotlight but with lasting influence.
- Man City handed date for latest legal battle against the Premier League but face another huge delay - May 7, 2025
- Dino Guilmette: From Boxing Ring to Businessman – The Private Life of Shayanna Jenkins’ Partner - May 6, 2025
- Sam Sulek: Height, Weight, and the Rise of a Young Bodybuilding Star - May 6, 2025
