Where Are They Now? The Cast of *Mall Cop*

Remember the days when the most pressing threat to your local shopping center was a rogue scooter-riding security guard? Ah, the comedic brilliance of *Mall Cop*. These movies offered a fun escape and a reminder that even the most ordinary person can become a hero. But as we reminisce about Paul Blart’s epic battles against juice bar bandits and Segway-based shenanigans, have you ever wondered what happened to the actors who brought those characters to life? The *Mall Cop* franchise wasn’t just about slapstick comedy; it introduced us to a talented cast, each contributing to the movie’s lighthearted charm.

This article will journey beyond the West Orange Pavilion Mall to discover where the *Mall Cop* cast members are now. From Kevin James’s continued comedic reign to Jayma Mays’s diverse television roles, we’ll delve into their careers before, during, and after their time navigating the retail landscape. So, buckle up (or maybe just adjust your helmet straps) as we explore the post-*Mall Cop* adventures of your favorite mall defenders.

Paul Blart Himself: Kevin James

Before he was zipping around on a Segway, defending the mall from evildoers, Kevin James was already a comedy heavyweight. His journey started on the stand-up stage, honing his skills with relatable humor and impeccable timing. This led to his breakout role as Doug Heffernan in the hit sitcom *The King of Queens*. For nine seasons, James charmed audiences with his portrayal of a lovable delivery driver navigating the everyday challenges of marriage and suburban life. *The King of Queens* solidified his status as a comedic force and laid the groundwork for his future success on the big screen. Kevin James had already established himself, bringing laughs to living rooms across the globe.

Then came *Mall Cop*, a project where Kevin James didn’t just star; he poured his creative energy into crafting a character and a story that resonated with audiences. He envisioned and embodied Paul Blart, a security guard with a heart of gold and a unique set of skills (and a whole lot of dedication). *Mall Cop* became a box-office hit, proving James’s ability to draw crowds and generate laughter. He was a producer and a writer for the first film, which allowed him to really put himself into the character and create a story that he knew his audience would enjoy. The film’s success established that Kevin James was a name that would attract an audience of comedy lovers.

Since his Segway days, Kevin James has remained a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. He’s starred in numerous films, including the *Grown Ups* franchise, where he reunited with fellow comedy stars Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, and David Spade, as well as *Here Comes the Boom*, where he played a high school teacher who becomes an MMA fighter to save his school’s music program. These roles showcased his versatility as a comedic actor, proving he could handle both slapstick humor and more heartfelt performances.

Beyond film, James continued to explore television, starring in the sitcom *Kevin Can Wait*, followed by *The Crew* on Netflix. While these shows may not have reached the same heights as *The King of Queens*, they demonstrated his continued dedication to television comedy. He continues to perform stand-up comedy, further exercising his writing skills. Currently, he continues to pursue new and exciting projects, including writing and producing new shows and movies. Kevin James’s career shows no signs of slowing down. He’s proven himself to be a consistent entertainer and is likely to remain that way for many years to come.

The Love Interest: Jayma Mays (Amy Anderson)

Before stealing Paul Blart’s heart as the charming Amy Anderson, Jayma Mays was quietly building a resume with appearances on some of television’s most popular shows. She graced the small screen in episodes of *Joey*, *Six Feet Under*, and *Entourage*, honing her acting chops and showcasing her versatility. She had a short role as Charlie Andrews in *Heroes*, further building her range and exposure. She was a chameleon, proving she could take on a variety of roles. Her presence on-screen was a prelude to the comedic charm she would later bring to *Mall Cop*.

In *Mall Cop*, Jayma Mays played Amy Anderson, the object of Paul Blart’s affections and a catalyst for his heroic actions. Her bubbly personality and genuine kindness made her instantly likable, and her chemistry with Kevin James added a sweet, romantic element to the film’s comedic chaos. She gave Paul Blart motivation to do what was right, even when the odds were stacked against him. Her portrayal added heart to the overall story.

Following her *Mall Cop* role, Jayma Mays landed the role of Emma Pillsbury, a guidance counselor, in the musical television series *Glee*. This was a landmark role that solidified her as a comedic talent. *Glee* became a cultural phenomenon, exposing her to a wider audience and showcasing her singing and dancing abilities. Beyond *Glee*, she appeared in *The Smurfs* movies and starred in the sitcom *Trial & Error*. Through the years, she has continued to take on television and movie projects. In a world where many actors specialize, she is a true generalist.

Jayma Mays has proven her versatility and skill as an actress throughout her career. She’s transitioned seamlessly between television and film, showcasing her comedic timing and her ability to connect with audiences. Her roles have received praise from both critics and fans, and she’s been nominated for several awards for her various performances. She’s earned her place as one of Hollywood’s most reliable and engaging performers. And, while her career started small, she has worked hard to find success.

The Antagonist: Keir O’Donnell (Veck Simms)

Before he was the villainous Veck Simms, Keir O’Donnell was steadily building a reputation as a character actor with a knack for both comedic and dramatic roles. He appeared in films like *Wedding Crashers* and *The Break-Up*, showcasing his ability to play both quirky and more serious characters. He took a variety of roles as he steadily built his resume. He was an adaptable actor who took any challenge that came his way.

In *Mall Cop*, Keir O’Donnell played Veck Simms, the cunning and ruthless leader of the criminal gang that takes over the West Orange Pavilion Mall. He brought a level of intensity and menace to the role, serving as the perfect foil to Paul Blart’s bumbling heroism. He was a villain you loved to hate. O’Donnell brought a depth of character that took Veck Simms beyond a simple bad guy.

Since his role as Veck, Keir O’Donnell has continued to thrive in film and television, appearing in projects such as *American Sniper*, directed by Clint Eastwood, the TV series *Fargo* and *Legion*. These roles demonstrate his range as an actor, allowing him to tackle complex and challenging characters. He’s worked with some of the most respected directors and actors in the industry. O’Donnell is an actor’s actor, bringing depth and nuance to every role he plays. He’s been praised for his commitment to his craft and his willingness to take on difficult and unconventional characters. He has won an award for his performance in a short film, highlighting his dedication to the craft.

Supporting Cast Highlights

While Kevin James, Jayma Mays, and Keir O’Donnell may have been the main faces of *Mall Cop*, the film also benefited from a talented supporting cast that added depth and humor to the story.

Shirley Knight (Margaret Blart)

Shirley Knight, who played Paul Blart’s mother, Margaret, had a long and distinguished career in film, television, and theater. Before *Mall Cop*, Knight was a veteran of stage and screen, with multiple Emmy and Tony Awards to her name. After *Mall Cop*, she continued to work in television and film, until her passing in April of 2020.

Raina Rodriguez (Maya Blart)

Raina Rodriguez played Paul Blart’s daughter, Maya. Rodriguez has continued acting, building up an impressive resume since her time as Paul Blart’s daughter.

Behind-the-Scenes Fun

One fun fact about *Mall Cop* is that Kevin James drew inspiration for the character of Paul Blart from his own experiences working as a security guard before his comedy career took off. It’s a story that resonated with fans. Kevin James was able to channel his own work experience into something magical. Another interesting detail is that the Segway that Paul Blart uses throughout the film was actually a custom-designed model with enhanced features for comedic stunts and action sequences. And, while the movie is set in New Jersey, much of the filming actually took place in a shopping mall in Massachusetts. These facts add a layer of appreciation for the effort that went into making the film.

Conclusion

The cast of *Mall Cop* brought to life a memorable story of an unlikely hero who triumphed over adversity. Each actor has their own story and trajectory since the films became a sensation. It goes to show that even actors who are best known for comedy can bring depth and range to the roles they take on. Some, like Kevin James, are best known for comedy, and continue in that genre. Others, like Keir O’Donnell, are known for the versatility they bring to their work. Their post-*Mall Cop* careers have been marked by diverse roles and continued success. Their continued successes are a testament to their talent. The fact that many of the *Mall Cop* cast members have remained in the public eye underscores the enduring appeal of the film and the talent of the actors who brought it to life. They built their careers from their appearance in *Mall Cop*, showing they knew a good opportunity when they saw it. They turned their roles into lasting success. As audiences still watch *Mall Cop*, the cast members have moved on to other jobs. The cast has continued to pursue new opportunities, leaving a legacy for the movie in their wake. No matter where they are, these actors are appreciated for their work. The legacy lives on!