"Mall Cop" & Kevin James: Facts, Cast & Where To Watch

Elissa Schiller 17 May 2025

Is it possible for a single role to define an entire career, and more importantly, to capture the hearts of audiences worldwide? For Kevin James, the answer is a resounding yes, cemented by his portrayal of the lovable yet accident-prone Paul Blart in the Mall Cop franchise.

The name Kevin James instantly conjures up images of laughter, slapstick humor, and a certain everyman quality that has endeared him to millions. But beyond the comedic facade lies a multi-talented artist who has not only mastered the art of making people laugh but has also proven his capabilities as a writer, producer, and actor across a diverse range of projects. This is the story of Kevin James, the man behind the badge, the creator behind the comedy, and the enduring appeal of the Mall Cop phenomenon.

Born Kevin George Knipfing on April 26, 1965, in Mineola, New York, James's journey into the world of entertainment wasn't a direct path. Raised in Stony Brook, Long Island, he initially explored a career in athletics, excelling in wrestling and football during his high school years. However, the stage beckoned, and James soon discovered a knack for comedy, leading him to pursue stand-up and eventually, a career in acting.

Here is the information about Kevin James in detail.

Category	Details
Full Name	Kevin George Knipfing
Date of Birth	April 26, 1965
Place of Birth	Mineola, New York, USA
Height	5' 9 1/2" (176.5 cm)
Known For	Paul Blart in Mall Cop, Doug Heffernan in The King of Queens
Occupation	Actor, Comedian, Screenwriter, Producer
Early Life	Raised in Stony Brook, Long Island. Excelled in sports before pursuing comedy.
Family	Second son of Janet and Joseph Valentine Knipfing.
Spouse	Steffiana de la Cruz (married 2004)
Children	Four children
Notable Works	The King of Queens (TV Series), Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Grown Ups, I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry, Zookeeper
Website	Official Kevin James Website

James's breakthrough came with the CBS sitcom The King of Queens, where he starred as Doug Heffernan, a lovable delivery driver. The show, which ran for nine seasons, became a massive success, showcasing James's comedic timing and ability to connect with audiences on a relatable level. This role solidified his position as a household name and provided the platform for him to transition into film.

The leap from television to the big screen proved to be a successful one, as James began to land roles in various films. He has appeared in films like Hitch, I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry and Grown Ups, often collaborating with fellow comedian Adam Sandler. These roles further demonstrated his versatility and ability to shine in ensemble casts.

However, it was the role of Paul Blart in Paul Blart: Mall Cop that truly catapulted James to a new level of fame. Released in 2009, the film, directed by Steve Carr, saw James as the security guard of a New Jersey mall, who steps up to save the day when a group of criminals attempts a heist. The film's blend of slapstick humor, heart, and James's undeniable charm resonated with audiences.

Paul Blart: Mall Cop, which opened at No. 1 at the box office, was a major commercial success. It took in a staggering $244.2 million worldwide. The film's success spawned a sequel, Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2, released in 2015, further solidifying the franchise's popularity and James's star power.

The film's popularity can be attributed to several factors. The character of Paul Blart is inherently likable, a single father who is trying to do his best. His clumsy antics and unwavering determination create an endearing character that viewers can't help but root for. The film's humor is accessible, appealing to a broad audience with its physical comedy and lighthearted tone.

The supporting cast of Mall Cop, including Keir O'Donnell and Jayma Mays, added to the film's appeal. Their performances complemented James's comedic timing, and they contributed to the film's overall entertainment value. The film also highlighted themes of family, heroism, and the importance of believing in oneself, which further endeared it to audiences.

Beyond the Mall Cop franchise, James has continued to work steadily in film and television. He has appeared in films like Zookeeper, Hotel Transylvania 2, and Pixels, showcasing his ability to work in a variety of genres. His continued collaboration with Adam Sandler demonstrates the strong bond between the two comedians and their ability to entertain audiences.

In 2010, James hosted the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards, demonstrating his appeal to younger audiences. This event further expanded his reach and solidified his position as a family-friendly entertainer.

Jamess career trajectory demonstrates his talent and versatility as a performer. He has shown a remarkable ability to adapt to different comedic styles, whether through stand-up, sitcoms, or film. His transition from stand-up to television and film shows a dedication to his craft.

The world of cinema has also given us the opportunity to see him work alongside some of Hollywood's biggest names. From his collaborations with Adam Sandler in films such as Grown Ups and I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry, to his roles in movies such as Hitch and Zookeeper.

The film Mall Cop, directed by Steve Carr and starring Kevin James as the lead character Paul Blart, was a hit at the box office and opened on January 16, 2009. The movie earned a total of $183 million worldwide. Its storyline revolves around a bumbling mall security guard who foils a heist, thus the movie generated a large amount of viewership.

The film Paul Blart: Mall Cop was not universally praised by critics. While it connected with audiences, it received mixed reviews from critics, earning a 33% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 5.2 score on IMDb.

Despite the mixed critical reception of the Mall Cop movies, the franchise's popularity cannot be denied. The films have resonated with audiences across the globe, making Kevin James a bankable star and a beloved figure in the world of comedy. The success of the films highlights the power of relatable characters, accessible humor, and the enduring appeal of the underdog story.

Besides his work in the Mall Cop films and The King of Queens, James has starred in numerous other projects, further solidifying his versatility. In 2015, he appeared in Little Boy, Pixels, and Hotel Transylvania 2, demonstrating his range and ability to work in diverse roles.

In 2016, James starred in True Memoirs of an International Assassin. These projects prove his continued commitment to creating entertaining content for audiences.

In addition to his acting career, James is also a writer and producer. He has contributed to the scripts of his films, showcasing his creative talents and his desire to be involved in all aspects of the filmmaking process.

Kevin James, the actor behind Paul Blart, has established himself as one of Hollywood's most beloved comedic actors. His journey from stand-up comedian to sitcom star to film icon is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and the ability to connect with audiences through humor and heart. While the critics may have had their say, the success of the Mall Cop franchise and Jamess broader body of work proves that his comedic timing and relatable charm have made him a household name. The actor's career is a proof that it is possible to build a lasting career on the foundation of laughter.

The enduring popularity of Mall Cop and the various works Kevin James has been involved in highlight his impact on the comedy landscape. His ability to bring laughter and joy to audiences of all ages has solidified his place in the hearts of viewers worldwide.