The Cast of Mall Cop: Where Are They Now?
Mall Cop, released in 2009, became a surprise hit, largely due to its blend of slapstick comedy and heartwarming themes. The film, centered around Paul Blart, a single dad and security guard at a New Jersey mall, struck a chord with audiences. A significant part of its success lies in the memorable performances of the cast of Mall Cop. But what have the actors been up to since patrolling the West Orange Pavilion Mall?
Paul Blart Himself: Kevin James
Kevin James, the face of Mall Cop, played the lovable, albeit clumsy, Paul Blart. Before taking on the role of the security guard on a Segway, James was already a well-established comedian and actor, known for his role in the sitcom The King of Queens. His physical comedy and relatable persona made Paul Blart an instant favorite. Since Mall Cop, James has continued to thrive in the entertainment industry.
Following the success of the first film, James reprised his role in Mall Cop 2 (2015), which took Paul Blart to Las Vegas. Beyond the Mall Cop franchise, James has starred in numerous comedies, including Grown Ups, Zookeeper, and Pixels. He’s also lent his voice to animated films like the Hotel Transylvania series and continues to perform stand-up comedy. Most recently, he starred in the Netflix series “The Crew” and “Home Team,” demonstrating his enduring appeal to audiences. He remains a prominent figure in comedy, consistently delivering laughter and entertainment.
Amy Anderson: Jayma Mays
Jayma Mays played Amy Anderson, the object of Paul Blart’s affection and a vendor at a wig stand in the mall. Amy’s sweet and charming personality added a romantic subplot to the film. Prior to Mall Cop, Mays had already built a solid career in television, with appearances in shows like Heroes, Ugly Betty, and Entourage. Her performance as Amy solidified her as a rising star. After the success of Mall Cop, Mays continued to flourish in both television and film.
She is perhaps best known for her role as Emma Pillsbury, the guidance counselor with OCD, in the hit musical series Glee. Mays also starred in the live-action/animated film The Smurfs and its sequel. She has appeared in several other TV shows, including The Millers, Trial & Error, and, more recently, United States of Al. Her versatility and comedic timing have made her a sought-after actress in Hollywood. She continues to showcase her talents in various projects, proving her staying power in the industry. Her portrayal of Amy in the cast of Mall Cop is still remembered fondly by fans.
Commander Kent: Bobby Cannavale
Bobby Cannavale portrayed Commander Kent, the leader of the SWAT team who provides assistance during the mall siege. While his role in Mall Cop was relatively small, Cannavale’s presence added gravitas to the action sequences. Cannavale was already an established actor before Mall Cop, with roles in films like The Station Agent and TV series like Third Watch. Since then, his career has skyrocketed.
Cannavale has become a highly respected and versatile actor, known for his work in both comedy and drama. He has won two Primetime Emmy Awards for his roles in Will & Grace and Boardwalk Empire. He has also appeared in acclaimed films such as Blue Jasmine, Ant-Man, I, Tonya, and The Irishman. His television credits include starring roles in Mr. Robot, Master of None, and Homecoming. Cannavale’s ability to seamlessly transition between genres has made him one of the most sought-after actors in Hollywood. His brief but memorable role in the cast of Mall Cop helped pave the way for his subsequent success.
Veck Simms: Keir O’Donnell
Keir O’Donnell played Veck Simms, the main antagonist and leader of the criminal gang that takes over the mall. Simms is a skilled skateboarder and uses his skills to evade Paul Blart. O’Donnell’s portrayal of the villainous Simms added a level of excitement and danger to the film. Prior to Mall Cop, O’Donnell had appeared in films like Wedding Crashers and The Break-Up. Since then, he has continued to work steadily in both film and television.
O’Donnell has appeared in films such as American Sniper, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, and Gifted. He has also had recurring roles in television series like Sons of Anarchy, Fargo, and Legion. O’Donnell’s ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles has made him a versatile character actor. While he may not be a household name, he has built a solid career through consistent work and strong performances. His role as the antagonist in the cast of Mall Cop remains one of his most recognizable roles.
Pahud: Adhir Kalyan
Adhir Kalyan played Pahud, a fellow mall employee and Paul Blart’s friend. Pahud works at a cell phone kiosk and assists Paul in his efforts to stop the criminals. Kalyan’s comedic timing and supportive role added a layer of camaraderie to the film. Prior to Mall Cop, Kalyan had appeared in the TV series Aliens in America. Since then, he has continued to work primarily in television.
Kalyan is best known for his roles in the sitcoms Rules of Engagement and Second Chance. He also starred in the short-lived series I’m Sorry and has made guest appearances on shows like Arrested Development and Santa Clarita Diet. Kalyan’s knack for comedy has made him a popular choice for sitcom roles. While he may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of his Mall Cop co-stars, he has carved out a successful career in television comedy. His contribution to the cast of Mall Cop is valued by fans of the movie.
Continuing Legacies of the Mall Cop Cast
The cast of Mall Cop brought a unique blend of comedic talent and character depth to the film, contributing significantly to its success. While some members of the cast have gone on to achieve greater fame and recognition, all have continued to work steadily in the entertainment industry. Their performances in Mall Cop remain memorable for fans of the film, and their subsequent careers demonstrate their talent and versatility. From Kevin James’s continued reign as a comedy king to Jayma Mays’s success in television and film, the cast of Mall Cop has left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment. The movie’s enduring popularity ensures that the actors’ contributions will continue to be appreciated for years to come. The ensemble work of the cast of Mall Cop created a comedic environment that resonated with a large audience. [See also: Kevin James Movies Ranked]
The film’s success can be attributed to more than just one factor, but the dynamic performances of the actors certainly played a crucial role. Each member of the cast of Mall Cop brought something unique to the table, creating a memorable and entertaining experience for audiences. Their subsequent careers further demonstrate their talent and versatility, solidifying their places in the entertainment industry. The film is a testament to the power of ensemble performances and the enduring appeal of comedic storytelling. The success story of the cast of Mall Cop continues to unfold as they take on new and exciting projects.
Ultimately, the legacy of Mall Cop lies not only in its comedic moments and action sequences but also in the performances of its talented cast. Their dedication to their roles and their ability to bring the characters to life made the film a memorable and enjoyable experience for audiences of all ages. As they continue to pursue their careers in entertainment, the cast of Mall Cop will always be remembered for their contributions to this beloved comedy. The diverse talents within the cast of Mall Cop helped establish a foundation for their future accomplishments.
Looking back, it’s clear that Mall Cop served as a stepping stone for many of its actors, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents and launch successful careers. Whether they went on to star in blockbuster films, acclaimed television series, or continue to work steadily in character roles, the cast of Mall Cop has undoubtedly made their mark on the entertainment industry. The camaraderie and chemistry among the cast of Mall Cop were evident on screen and contributed to the film’s overall appeal.
The movie, while a lighthearted comedy, also touches on themes of courage, self-belief, and standing up for what’s right, which resonated with audiences. The characters, brought to life by the talented cast of Mall Cop, were relatable and endearing, making the film all the more enjoyable. As fans continue to revisit Mall Cop, they can appreciate not only the humor and action but also the performances of the actors who brought the story to life. The film’s lasting appeal is a testament to the talent and dedication of the cast of Mall Cop.
The charm and appeal of the cast of Mall Cop continue to resonate with audiences, making the film a beloved comedy classic. Their individual journeys and collective success stories serve as an inspiration for aspiring actors and a reminder of the power of teamwork and dedication. The enduring legacy of the cast of Mall Cop is a testament to their talent, hard work, and the impact they have had on the world of entertainment. The varied career trajectories of the cast of Mall Cop illustrate the diverse paths one can take in the entertainment industry.
