The Cable Guy is a 1996 American satirical black comedy psychological thriller film directed by Ben Stiller and written by Lou Holtz Jr. It stars Jim Carrey as an eccentric cable installer who becomes overly intrusive in the life of a customer. Leslie Mann, George Segal, Diane Baker and Jack Black appear in supporting roles. It was released in the United States on June 14, 1996. The film was a box office success, grossing over $100 million, though not to the extent of many of Carrey's previous films. It received mixed reviews from critics, but has since attained a cult following.