Kevin James, American actor and comedian

Kevin George Knipfing, professionally and affectionately known as Kevin James, is a celebrated American actor, comedian, and screenwriter whose career spans decades of memorable performances in both television and film. Born on April 26, 1965, James has become a familiar and beloved face in entertainment, particularly recognized for his approachable, everyman comedic style.

Iconic Television Roles

James's breakthrough role came as the lovable, working-class deliveryman Doug Heffernan in the hugely popular CBS sitcom The King of Queens. Running from 1998 to 2007, this show cemented his status as a household name, showcasing his talent for physical comedy and relatable character portrayal as he navigated married life with his on-screen wife, Carrie (Leah Remini), in Queens, New York. The series remains a staple in syndication, a testament to its enduring appeal and comedic legacy.

Transition to Feature Films

Following his extensive television success, Kevin James made a seamless and significant transition to the big screen, often gravitating towards comedic roles that further highlighted his unique charm. He first made a notable impact in the romantic comedy Hitch (2005), starring alongside Will Smith, which demonstrated his versatility beyond the sitcom format.

Leading Man and Ensemble Comedies

His comedic talents truly shone as the titular character in the highly successful film Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009), where he played a dedicated, if somewhat hapless, mall security guard. This role solidified his position as a leading man in family-friendly comedies. James also became a frequent collaborator with fellow comedian Adam Sandler, appearing in a string of popular ensemble films, including:

• I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry (2007)
• Grown Ups (2010)
• Zookeeper (2011)
• Here Comes the Boom (2012)
• Pixels (2015)

These films often leveraged his signature blend of earnestness and slapstick humor, making him a consistent presence in mainstream comedies.

Voice Acting Ventures

Beyond his live-action roles, Kevin James has also lent his distinctive voice to several animated projects, bringing various characters to life for younger audiences. His voice work includes:

• Monster House (2006)
• Barnyard (2006)
• The first three installments of the beloved Hotel Transylvania franchise (2012–2018), where he voiced the iconic character Frankenstein.

Return to Television: Kevin Can Wait

In a much-anticipated return to prime-time network television, James starred in the CBS sitcom Kevin Can Wait (2016–2018). In this series, he again played a family man navigating post-retirement life, a role that resonated with viewers and earned him a nomination for a 2017 People's Choice Award, reinforcing his enduring popularity in the sitcom genre.

Frequently Asked Questions about Kevin James

What is Kevin James's full birth name?

Kevin James's full birth name is Kevin George Knipfing.

What are some of Kevin James's most well-known television roles?

He is most famous for his lead role as Doug Heffernan in the long-running sitcom The King of Queens and later starred in Kevin Can Wait.

Which iconic animated character did Kevin James voice?

Kevin James voiced Frankenstein in the first three films of the Hotel Transylvania animated franchise.

Did Kevin James receive any award nominations for his television work?

Yes, he was nominated for a 2017 People's Choice Award for his performance in the CBS sitcom Kevin Can Wait.

Has Kevin James frequently collaborated with other prominent comedians?

Indeed, Kevin James has frequently collaborated with fellow comedian Adam Sandler, appearing in several films together, including I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry and Grown Ups.