The Mall Cop Cast: Where Are They Now?
Paul Blart: Mall Cop, released in 2009, became a surprising box office hit, largely due to its slapstick humor and the endearing portrayal of a security guard dedicated to his job. The film spawned a sequel, Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 (2015), further cementing its place in comedic cinema. But what happened to the Mall Cop cast after their time patrolling the West Orange Pavilion Mall? This article explores the careers and lives of the main actors, examining their subsequent roles and achievements.
Kevin James as Paul Blart
Kevin James, the star and co-writer of the Paul Blart: Mall Cop franchise, played the titular character, Paul Blart. A single father and dedicated security guard, Blart is depicted as somewhat clumsy but ultimately heroic. James’s physical comedy skills were central to the movie’s success. Since donning the Segway, James has remained a prominent figure in comedy. He starred in the sitcom Kevin Can Wait (2016-2018) and has appeared in numerous films, including Grown Ups (2010), Zookeeper (2011), and Pixels (2015). He continues to perform stand-up comedy and remains a recognizable face in Hollywood. His role as the Mall Cop cast leader is one he is still fondly remembered for.
Jayma Mays as Amy Anderson
Jayma Mays played Amy Anderson, a vendor at the mall who becomes the object of Paul Blart’s affection. Her charming and sweet portrayal added a romantic element to the comedic chaos. Following her role in Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Mays gained further recognition for her role as Emma Pillsbury in the musical television series Glee (2009-2015). She has also appeared in films such as The Smurfs (2011) and American Made (2017). Mays has showcased her versatility as an actress, transitioning between comedic and dramatic roles with ease. Her inclusion in the Mall Cop cast gave the film a much-needed romantic subplot.
Keir O’Donnell as Veck Simms
Keir O’Donnell portrayed Veck Simms, the main antagonist in the first film. Simms leads a group of criminals who take over the mall on Black Friday. O’Donnell’s performance as the villain provided a necessary foil to Blart’s bumbling heroism. O’Donnell has had a consistent career in television and film. He has appeared in series such as Fargo, Legion, and What We Do in the Shadows. He has also starred in movies like Wedding Crashers (2005) and American Sniper (2014). His ability to play both comedic and dramatic characters has made him a sought-after actor. Being part of the Mall Cop cast gave him wider exposure.
Raini Rodriguez as Maya Blart
Raini Rodriguez played Maya Blart, Paul Blart’s daughter. Her character added a layer of family dynamics to the story. Rodriguez has continued to act, most notably in the Disney Channel series Austin & Ally (2011-2016). She has also lent her voice to animated projects. Rodriguez has maintained a strong presence in the entertainment industry, appealing to younger audiences. Seeing her as part of the Mall Cop cast showed audiences her potential early on.
Shirley Knight as Margaret Blart
Shirley Knight, a veteran actress, played Margaret Blart, Paul’s mother. Her character provided moments of comedic relief and added to the film’s family-friendly appeal. Knight had a long and distinguished career in film, television, and theater. She was nominated for two Academy Awards and won three Emmy Awards. Some of her notable works include As Good as It Gets (1997) and Sweet Bird of Youth (1962). Sadly, Shirley Knight passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable performances. Her contribution to the Mall Cop cast was a testament to her talent and dedication.
Peter Gerety as Commander Brooks
Peter Gerety played Commander Brooks, Paul Blart’s supervisor. Gerety has had a prolific career in television and film, often playing authority figures. He has appeared in series such as The Wire, Law & Order, and Sneaky Pete. He has also featured in films like Flight (2012) and Changeling (2008). Gerety’s consistent work in the industry speaks to his talent and versatility. His role in the Mall Cop cast was another example of his solid acting abilities.
Stephen Rannazzisi as Stuart Dunn
Stephen Rannazzisi, also known as Steve Rannazzisi, played Stuart Dunn, another mall security guard. Rannazzisi is primarily known for his role as Kevin McArthur in the television series The League (2009-2015). He has also appeared in other television shows and films. His comedic timing and delivery have made him a popular comedic actor. Rannazzisi’s inclusion in the Mall Cop cast added to the ensemble’s comedic strength.
Adria Arjona as Amelia Gutierrez (Mall Cop 2)
While not in the original, Adria Arjona played Amelia Gutierrez in Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2. She worked at the hotel where the security guard convention was held and quickly became Paul’s new love interest. Arjona has since gone on to star in a variety of high-profile projects including the HBO series *True Detective*, the film *Pacific Rim: Uprising*, and the Amazon Prime series *Good Omens*. She’s quickly establishing herself as a versatile and sought-after actress. Her addition to the Mall Cop cast for the sequel brought a fresh dynamic to the story. [See also: Adria Arjona’s Rise to Stardom]
Neal McDonough as Vincent Sofel (Mall Cop 2)
Neal McDonough portrayed the main villain, Vincent Sofel, in *Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2*. McDonough is known for playing antagonists and tough guys, and his role in the sequel was no exception. He has a long and successful career in both television and film, with notable roles in *Band of Brothers*, *Desperate Housewives*, *Captain America: The First Avenger*, and *Arrow*. McDonough brings intensity and gravitas to his roles, making him a memorable presence on screen. His inclusion in the Mall Cop cast provided a formidable adversary for Paul Blart. [See also: Neal McDonough’s Villainous Roles]
Where are they now?
The Mall Cop cast has experienced varying degrees of success following the release of the films. Kevin James remains a prominent figure in comedy, while Jayma Mays has showcased her versatility in both television and film. Keir O’Donnell continues to work consistently in the industry, and Raini Rodriguez has maintained a presence in entertainment, particularly among younger audiences. The supporting cast members have also continued to pursue their acting careers, contributing to various projects. The Paul Blart: Mall Cop franchise served as a stepping stone for many of these actors, providing them with wider recognition and opportunities. The film’s enduring popularity ensures that the Mall Cop cast will continue to be remembered for their roles in this comedic hit. Despite the mixed critical reception, *Paul Blart: Mall Cop* remains a cultural touchstone, and the actors involved have continued to thrive in their respective careers. The success of the Mall Cop cast is a testament to the film’s impact on popular culture.
Ultimately, the members of the Mall Cop cast have gone on to have successful careers, building on the foundation laid by the popularity of the *Paul Blart* franchise. The film provided a platform for these actors to showcase their talents and connect with a wide audience. Their subsequent projects demonstrate their versatility and dedication to their craft. Whether they continued in comedy or ventured into other genres, the actors who comprised the Mall Cop cast have left their mark on the entertainment industry. [See also: The Enduring Appeal of Paul Blart: Mall Cop]
