Kevin James is a renowned American actor and comedian best known for his role as Doug Heffernan on the hit CBS sitcom “The King of Queens.” With his exceptional comedic timing and relatable on-screen presence, James has established himself as one of Hollywood’s most beloved funny men.
Biography Table
| Full Name | Kevin George Knipfing |
|---|---|
| Profession | Actor, Comedian, Producer, Writer |
| Age (2025) | 60 years |
| Date of Birth | April 26, 1965 |
| Birth Sign | Taurus |
| Birthplace | Long Island, New York |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5’8" (173 cm) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $100 million |
| Spouse | Steffiana de la Cruz (m. 2004) |
| Children | 4 (including Kannon Valentine James and Sienna Marie James) |
Early Life & Background
Kevin James was born Kevin George Knipfing on April 26, 1965, in Long Island, New York. Growing up in a middle-class family, James showed athletic promise from an early age. During his high school years at Ward Melville High School, he was actively involved in both the football and wrestling teams, showcasing his physical abilities alongside his developing comedic personality.
After high school, James attended the State University of New York at Cortland, though he did not complete his degree. This academic detour would ultimately lead him toward his true calling in entertainment, where his natural charisma and humor would find their perfect outlet.
Career Journey
Kevin James began his entertainment career as a stand-up comedian, performing on the club circuit before gaining wider recognition on television. His big breakthrough came when he was cast as Doug Heffernan in the CBS sitcom “The King of Queens,” a role that would define much of his early career and earn him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series.
In 2004, James made his film debut with a small but memorable cameo in Adam Sandler’s romantic comedy “50 First Dates.” This would mark the beginning of a fruitful collaboration with Sandler that would span multiple projects. James later starred in hit comedies like “Hitch” (2005), “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” (2009), “Grown Ups” (2010), “Zookeeper” (2011), and “Pixels” (2015).
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Beyond live-action roles, James has established himself as a voice actor, most notably providing the voice of Frankenstein in the popular “Hotel Transylvania” animated film series, further showcasing his versatility as a performer.
Personal Life
Kevin James married actress Steffiana de la Cruz in 2004, and the couple has built a strong family foundation over the years. Together, they have four children, including daughter Sienna Marie and son Kannon Valentine. James is known to be a devoted family man who prioritizes time with his wife and children despite his busy career.
Family connections run deep in James’s life, as his brother Gary Valentine (born Gary Joseph Knipfing) is also an actor who has appeared alongside Kevin in various projects, including “The King of Queens.” James also has a sister named Leslie Knipfing, making entertainment something of a family business.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Kevin James’s net worth is estimated at approximately $100 million. This impressive fortune stems from his successful television career, blockbuster films, stand-up comedy tours, and various producing ventures. His starring role in “The King of Queens,” which ran for nine successful seasons, provided a substantial financial foundation that subsequent film roles have built upon.
The “Paul Blart” franchise proved particularly lucrative for James, with both films performing well at the box office despite mixed critical reception. His voice work in the “Hotel Transylvania” series has also contributed significantly to his wealth, as the animated films have been commercial successes worldwide.
Notable Facts & Trivia
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Comedy Roots: Before television fame, James honed his craft as a stand-up comedian, performing regularly on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “Late Show with David Letterman.”
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Athletic Background: His sports experience from high school wrestling and football often influences his physical comedy style.
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Production Company: James founded his own production company, Hey Eddie Productions, named after his character in “Hitch.”
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Celebrity Connections: He has a close professional relationship with Adam Sandler, appearing in numerous films produced by Sandler’s Happy Madison Productions.
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Guest Appearances: Before landing his own show, James guest-starred on several episodes of “Everybody Loves Raymond” alongside Patricia Heaton, which helped boost his television visibility.
Physical Appearance
Kevin James stands at approximately 5’8" (173 cm) tall. Throughout his career, his weight has fluctuated, sometimes intentionally for specific roles. His relatable physical appearance has been part of his comedic persona, often incorporated into his performances, particularly in physical comedy sequences.
Recent Projects
In recent years, James has continued to work in both television and film, expanding his repertoire while staying true to his comedic roots. He has embraced streaming platforms, working on several original productions that showcase his evolving talents as both a performer and producer.
Legacy in Comedy
Kevin James has cemented his place in American comedy with his distinctive style that blends physical humor with heartfelt characterizations. His ability to portray everyday characters facing relatable challenges has endeared him to audiences worldwide and established him as one of his generation’s most successful comedic actors.
FAQ
Q: How did Kevin James get his start in acting?
A: James began as a stand-up comedian before getting guest roles on television, notably on “Everybody Loves Raymond,” which led to his starring role in “The King of Queens.”
Q: Is Kevin James related to any other celebrities?
A: Yes, his brother Gary Valentine is also an actor who appeared on “The King of Queens.”
Q: What is Kevin James’s most successful movie?
A: While opinions vary, “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” was a massive commercial success that spawned a sequel and significantly boosted his film career.
Q: Has Kevin James won any major awards?
A: While he has been nominated for several awards, including a Primetime Emmy for “The King of Queens,” he has not yet won a major entertainment award.
Q: Does Kevin James write his own material?
A: Yes, James has writing credits on many of his projects, including episodes of “The King of Queens” and several of his films, showcasing his talents beyond acting.