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Kevin George Knipfing, better known by his stage name Kevin James, was born in Mineola, New York, and raised in Long Island. From a young age, James displayed a strong interest in sports, particularly wrestling and football. However, a series of injuries prevented him from pursuing athletics professionally, leading him to explore a career in entertainment instead.
James comes from a close-knit family. His older brother, Gary Valentine, is also a comedian and actor, known for his appearances alongside Kevin in various projects. His sister, Leslie Knipfing, is recognized for her involvement in organizing charitable events, particularly focusing on causes related to retinitis pigmentosa, a condition from which she suffers.
Kevin James married actress Steffiana de la Cruz in 2004, after several years of dating. De la Cruz is known for roles in films such as Zookeeper and the Paul Blart: Mall Cop series, both of which starred James. The couple currently resides in Delray Beach, Florida, and have four children together—three daughters and one son. Known for his dedication to family life, James is often praised for maintaining a strong and stable personal life despite his demanding career.
James launched his professional career in 1989 as a stand-up comedian, getting his first break with a five-minute set at the East Side Comedy Club, thanks to comedian Richie Minervini. His relatable humor, expressive comedic style, and affable stage presence quickly earned him recognition within the comedy community.
In the early 1990s, James made several appearances on talk shows and late-night television, gaining wider exposure. His rising popularity eventually led to opportunities in television acting, which would shape the course of his career significantly.
Kevin James achieved national fame for his starring role as Doug Heffernan in the CBS sitcom The King of Queens, which aired from 1998 to 2007. The show was a critical and commercial success, running for nine seasons and earning James a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. His performance as the lovable delivery driver cemented his status as a leading figure in television comedy.
Building on his TV success, James transitioned into film, making his big-screen debut in the romantic comedy Hitch (2005), where he starred alongside Will Smith and Eva Mendes. The film was a commercial hit and showcased his ability to carry comedic roles in larger productions.
James went on to play leading roles in a string of successful comedies, including The Dilemma, Zookeeper, and the Paul Blart: Mall Cop series. He also served as a producer on several of these films, contributing to their creative direction. In addition to on-screen acting, he has lent his voice to animated films such as Monster House and Barnyard.
Kevin James maintains an active presence on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where he shares updates about his projects and occasionally engages with fans. His accessibility and down-to-earth personality have helped sustain a strong fan base over the years.
He has also become a motivational figure for individuals struggling with weight-related issues. James reportedly lost close to 40 pounds by committing to a regular exercise routine and a disciplined diet, inspiring many of his followers to pursue a healthier lifestyle.
Although James comes from a non-entertainment background, he has carved a unique niche for himself in Hollywood through hard work, talent, and resilience. Known for his family-oriented values and generosity, James continues to produce and act in projects that aim to entertain wide audiences. His professional success has been matched by financial rewards, with an estimated net worth of approximately $80 million.
Kevin James remains one of the most recognized figures in American comedy, known for bringing heart and humor to both the small and big screens.
| Birth Date: | 26 Apr, 1965 |
| Age: | 54 yrs |
| Citizenship: | United States of America |
| Birth Place: | Mineola |
| Education: | Ward Melville High School State University of New York at Cortland |
| Gender: | Male |
| Description: | American actor and comedian |
| Spouse: | Steffiana de la Cruz |
| Net Worth 2021: | 100 million |
