The time Adam Sandler became Kevin James’ unsung hero

Kevin James’ career might have taken a very different path if it weren’t for Adam Sandler stepping in behind the scenes on Paul Blart: Mall Cop.

The 2009 action-comedy became one of James’ most recognizable films, but according to him, the movie almost never made it past the editing room.

Kevin James, who plays the titular mall security guard in Mall Cop, remembered the first cut of the movie as “horrendous.” He feared the flop could end his career before it truly began. That’s when Sandler, a producer through his Happy Madison company, quietly took charge.

He gave the film space to breathe, made crucial edits, and shaped it into the hit that grossed $183.8 million worldwide on a $26 million budget. Without Sandler’s guidance, James said, the movie likely wouldn’t have been made at all.

Instead of ending Kevin James’ career, Paul Blart launched a franchise and cemented his place in comedy. A sequel followed in 2015, featuring returning cast members like Raini Rodriguez and new additions including Neal McDonough and Loni Love.

Even Adam Sandler’s family got involved; his wife Jackie, had a credited role, and their nephew Jared, appeared as well. The films were co-written by James, with different directors for each installment, but Sandler’s influence remained central to their success.

Kevin James often credits Sandler for more than just Paul Blart.

Their professional relationship spans multiple projects, from I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry to Grown Ups, Pixels, Home Team, and the Hotel Transylvania films. James has said he listens to Adam Sandler’s advice on every project, following his instincts closely, and the collaboration has become a hallmark of his career.

For Kevin James, the experience was transformative. A movie he once feared would be a disaster instead became a defining role. Adam Sandler, quietly observing, intervening, and knowing just what to do, became the unsung hero behind that success.

Even now, Kevin James remains hopeful a third Paul Blart film could happen, remembering the fun of shooting in Las Vegas and the partnership that helped turn panic into one of his biggest hits.