Quick Wiki
- Full Name Kevin George Knipfing
- Birth Date Apr 26, 1965
- Age 60 Years, 1 Months
- Birthplace Mineola, New York, U.S.
- Occupation Comedian, actor, screen writer
- Parents Janet Klein and Joseph Valentine Knipfing Jr.
Kevin James | Biography
Kevin James, born on April 26, 1965, is a renowned actor and comedian best recognized for his role as Doug Heffernan on The King of Queens.
Who is Kevin James?
Kevin James is a celebrated American actor and comedian, best known for his role as Doug Heffernan on the hit sitcom The King of Queens, which aired from 1998 to 2007. Born Kevin George Knipfing on April 26, 1965, in Mineola, New York, he exhibited a passion for comedy during his college years at SUNY Cortland. After a successful stint in community theater and local comedy clubs, he quickly gained recognition for his relatable humor and affable stage presence, leading to significant television and film opportunities.
Following his breakout performance in The King of Queens, James expanded his career into films, starring in popular comedies such as Paul Blart: Mall Cop and Grown Ups alongside Adam Sandler. His versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles has contributed to his lasting popularity in the entertainment industry. James returned to television with Kevin Can Wait in 2016, reaffirming his status as a beloved figure in American comedy. With a career spanning over two decades, Kevin James remains a relatable and charming voice in the landscape of modern humor.
Early Life and Education
Kevin James, born Kevin George Knipfing on April 26, 1965, in Mineola, New York, developed a strong foundation from a young age. The son of Janet and Joseph Valentine Knipfing, he grew up in a family that valued hard work and dedication. The Knipfing family later moved to Stony Brook on Long Island, where James attended Ward Melville High School. There, he excelled as a sports enthusiast, particularly shining on the football field as a talented tailback. This passion for sports helped shape his character and work ethic, preparing him for the challenges of his future career in entertainment.
After graduating high school in 1983, James continued his education at SUNY Cortland, pursuing a degree in sports management. However, it was during a public speaking class that he discovered his true passion for comedy. Inspired by his experiences, he began to craft his comedic voice and joined a local theater production. Rather than completing his college education, James chose to dive headfirst into the world of stand-up comedy, honing his skills at Long Island's East Side Comedy Club. This decision marked the beginning of a transformative journey, ultimately leading him to become a beloved comedic actor and television star.
Foray into Comedy
Kevin James discovered his passion for comedy while attending college at SUNY Cortland, where a public speaking course sparked his interest in performing. While back on Long Island, he auditioned for a comedic role in a local theater production and experienced an overwhelming positive response from the audience. This pivotal moment led James to make the bold decision to not return to college, focusing instead on his emerging comedy career. He began honing his craft by joining his brother Gary Valentine's improv group, performing regularly at the East Side Comedy Club, which laid the groundwork for his future success in the entertainment industry.
During his time at the East Side Comedy Club, James formed essential relationships that would play a significant role in his career development. He adopted the stage name "Kevin James" as a tribute to a favorite teacher, and this move, coupled with his natural comedic talent, resonated with audiences. After a successful five-minute stand-up set at the club, his popularity soared, leading him to become a staple in the Long Island comedy scene. As he gained traction, James made connections with notable figures in comedy, including Ray Romano, setting the stage for his future breakout on television and in film.
Recognition and Career Success
Kevin James, an accomplished actor and comedian, achieved mainstream recognition through his portrayal of Doug Heffernan in the popular sitcom The King of Queens. Premiering on September 21, 1998, the show became a staple of CBS's prime-time lineup, earning James an Emmy nomination and a devoted fanbase over its nine-season run. His charm as an "everyman" resonated with audiences, showcasing his talent for physical comedy and relatable humor. Following the series' conclusion in 2007, James successfully transitioned back to television with Kevin Can Wait in 2016, where he once again displayed his comedic prowess.
In addition to his television success, Kevin James made a significant mark in the film industry. His feature film debut in the romantic comedy Hitch alongside Will Smith set the stage for a lucrative movie career. James's collaboration with Adam Sandler in I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry further solidified his status as a bankable star. He continued to entertain audiences with beloved family films, such as Paul Blart: Mall Cop, which he co-wrote and starred in, and animated hits like Hotel Transylvania. By seamlessly blending his comedic talent with heartfelt storytelling, James has established a lasting legacy in both television and film.
Film Career Highlights
Kevin James made a notable entry into the film industry with his feature film debut in 2005's romantic comedy, "Hitch," where he starred alongside Will Smith. This role showcased James's knack for physical comedy and timing, laying the groundwork for his future successes on the big screen. The year after, he co-wrote and headlined "Paul Blart: Mall Cop," which became a box office hit and established him as a leading man in family comedies. His unique blend of humor and relatability resonated with audiences, affirming his place in Hollywood.
In 2010, James teamed up with an impressive ensemble cast, including Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, Rob Schneider, and David Spade for the comedy "Grown Ups." This collaboration not only reflected his strong comedic presence but also garnered a sequel, "Grown Ups 2," in 2013. James's versatility continued to shine through in films like "Zookeeper" and animated features like "Hotel Transylvania," where his voice work further expanded his appeal. He continually found success with films like "Here Comes the Boom" and "Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2," solidifying his career as a beloved comedic actor.
Personal Life: Married Life and Children
Kevin James, a devout Catholic, has built a loving family alongside his longtime girlfriend, Steffiana De La Cruz. The couple met on a blind date and exchanged vows in 2004 at St. Edward Catholic Church. Their marriage has been marked by a strong bond and shared values, as they navigate the ups and downs of life together while balancing busy careers in the entertainment industry.
Together, James and De La Cruz have welcomed four children into their lives. Their first child, a daughter named Sienna-Marie, was born in 2005, followed by daughter Shea Joelle in 2007. The family grew further with the birth of their son, Kannon Valentine, in 2011, and their youngest daughter, Sistine Sabella, arriving in 2015. James often shares snippets of family life, highlighting the joy and challenges that come with raising a vibrant family, while maintaining a commitment to both his faith and his loved ones.
Net Worth and Earnings
Kevin James has built an impressive net worth, estimated to be around $100 million. This substantial wealth has been amassed through a combination of his successful television and film career, along with various endorsements and business ventures. The sitcom "The King of Queens," in which he starred from 1998 to 2007, was a significant boost to his income, as the show remained popular throughout its nine-season run. James has also negotiated lucrative deals for his film projects, such as "Paul Blart: Mall Cop," which grossed over $183 million worldwide, significantly contributing to his financial portfolio.
In addition to his television success, James has participated in various high-grossing films, including "Grown Ups," which further solidified his reputation in Hollywood. His partnerships with major stars like Adam Sandler have led to multiple blockbuster projects, wherein James earned a considerable salary for his performances. Beyond film and television, his stand-up comedy tours continue to draw large audiences, adding to his earnings. Overall, Kevin James's diverse career underscores his solid financial position in the entertainment industry.
