Kevin James is an American actor, comedian, and producer best known for his role in The King of Queens and films such as Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Grown Ups, and Hitch. Born in 1965, he has become one of Hollywood’s most recognizable comedic performers, admired for his physical humor, relatable characters, and family‑friendly appeal. Standing at 5’8” (173 cm), James has built a career that blends television success with blockbuster comedy films. As of 2026, his estimated net worth is $100 million, reflecting his decades‑long contributions to television, film, and stand‑up comedy.
Kevin James – Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kevin George Knipfing (professionally Kevin James) |
| Date of Birth | April 26, 1965 |
| Age (2026) | 61 years |
| Birthplace | Mineola, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5′8″ (1.73 m) |
| Occupations | Actor, Comedian, Producer |
| Years Active | 1989 – present |
| Education | Attended SUNY Cortland (studied sports management, left to pursue comedy) |
| Career Highlights | Breakthrough as Doug Heffernan in CBS sitcom The King of Queens (1998–2007); starred in comedy films Hitch (2005), I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry (2007), Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009, 2015), Grown Ups (2010, 2013); appeared in Here Comes the Boom (2012); Netflix projects include True Memoirs of an International Assassin (2016) and Home Team (2022) |
| Notable Coverage | Known for family-friendly comedies and sitcom success |
| Awards/Recognition | Primetime Emmy nomination (The King of Queens); multiple People’s Choice Award nominations |
| Family | Married to actress Steffiana de la Cruz (2004–present); four children |
| Net Worth (est.) | $100–110 million (approx.) |
| Current Status | Active in film, television, and stand-up comedy; continues to work on streaming and family-oriented projects |
Early Life and Family Background
- Full Name: Kevin George Knipfing (professionally known as Kevin James)
- Date of Birth: April 26, 1965
- Place of Birth: Mineola, New York, USA
- Height: 5’8” (173 cm)
- Nationality: American
James grew up in Stony Brook, New York, in a large family. He attended SUNY Cortland, where he played football before discovering his passion for stand‑up comedy.
Career Beginnings
- Started as a stand‑up comedian in Long Island clubs.
- Gained recognition on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Late Show with David Letterman.
- Built his reputation as a relatable, physical comedian with a strong stage presence.
Rise to Prominence
- Cast in The King of Queens (1998–2007) as Doug Heffernan, a role that made him a household name.
- The sitcom ran for nine seasons and remains one of CBS’s most successful comedies.
- Established himself as a versatile performer capable of both television and film.
Breakthrough Success
- Starred in Hitch (2005) alongside Will Smith, earning mainstream recognition.
- Featured in Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009), which grossed over $180 million worldwide.
- Became a leading figure in family‑friendly comedy films.
Continued Career Evolution
- Starred in Grown Ups (2010) and Grown Ups 2 (2013) with Adam Sandler.
- Appeared in Zookeeper (2011) and Here Comes the Boom (2012).
- Returned to television with Kevin Can Wait (2016–2018).
- Continues to act in film and television projects in 2026.
Awards and Recognition
- Primetime Emmy Award nomination for The King of Queens.
- Recognition from critics for his comedic timing and family‑friendly appeal.
- Praised for his contributions to television and comedy.
Personal Life
- Kevin James married actress Steffiana de la Cruz in 2004.
- Together they have four children.
- Known for his grounded personality and dedication to family life.
- Balances his career with personal commitments and philanthropy.
Net Worth (2026)
| Source of Income | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|
| Acting Career | $70 million |
| Stand‑Up Comedy | $10 million |
| Endorsements & Media | $20 million |
| Total Net Worth (2026) | ≈ $100 million |
Legacy and Influence
Kevin George Knipfing’s legacy lies in his ability to embody relatable, comedic characters while also shaping Hollywood through his family‑friendly performances. He represents a generation of comedians who successfully transitioned from stand‑up to television and film. His influence extends beyond comedy, shaping conversations in representation, family entertainment, and modern Hollywood artistry.
Conclusion
From New York beginnings to Hollywood acclaim, Kevin James’s biography reflects a journey of resilience, artistry, and influence. His work across stand‑up, television, and film demonstrates his versatility and vision. In 2026, he continues to inspire audiences with his authenticity, professionalism, and comedic leadership.
FAQ
1. Who is Kevin James?
Kevin James is an American actor, comedian, producer, and screenwriter best known for starring in the hit sitcom The King of Queens and comedy films such as Paul Blart: Mall Cop.
2. How old is Kevin James?
Kevin James was born on April 26, 1965, making him 61 years old as of 2026.
3. What is Kevin James’ real name?
Kevin was born Kevin George Knipfing. He adopted the stage name “Kevin James” before launching his successful career in stand-up comedy and television.
4. How tall is Kevin James?
Kevin James is approximately 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) tall.
5. What is Kevin James’ net worth?
Kevin James has an estimated net worth of around $100 million, earned through acting, stand-up comedy, producing, voice acting, and endorsement deals.
6. What is Kevin James’ salary per movie?
At the height of his film career, Kevin James reportedly earned between $5 million and $10 million per movie, depending on the project’s budget and his production involvement.
7. What movies is Kevin James best known for?
Kevin James is best known for films including:
- Paul Blart: Mall Cop
- Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2
- Grown Ups
- Grown Ups 2
- Hitch
- Here Comes the Boom
8. Is Kevin James married?
Yes. Kevin James has been married to Steffiana de la Cruz since 2004. The couple has built a long-lasting marriage and frequently keeps their family life private.
9. Does Kevin James have children?
Yes, Kevin George Knipfing and his wife Steffiana de la Cruz have four children together.
10. Is Kevin James related to Gary Valentine?
Yes. Kevin George Knipfing is the younger brother of Gary Valentine, an actor and comedian who appeared in several episodes of The King of Queens.
11. What TV shows has Kevin James starred in?
Kevin George Knipfing is best known for starring in The King of Queens. He also starred in Kevin Can Wait and has appeared in numerous comedy specials and television guest roles.
12. Is Kevin James still acting?
Yes. Kevin George Knipfing continues to act in movies, television projects, and stand-up comedy specials. He remains active in the entertainment industry, regularly collaborating with fellow comedians and appearing in streaming productions.
