In a candid conversation with journalist Sarah Lane, actor Kevin James opened up about his reflections on life, the lessons imparted by his parents, and the unwavering commitment he feels towards his children.
How do you navigate the highs and lows of your career?
You develop a personal scorecard. We don’t receive report cards after we finish school, and many people disdain the idea. Yet there comes a point when you assess your journey. As adults, do we ever pause to evaluate our progress? How did we fare this year? How did we nurture friendships? Did we grow personally and professionally? Looking back at my films, I often grade myself. But one thing I never question is whether I put forth my utmost effort during the filmmaking process. I always strive to pour my heart into each project, utilizing all the skills and luck available to me at that moment.
Both of your recent movies tackle important societal issues, particularly the racial divide.
I often hear people claim they’re colorblind, but I find that hard to believe. Racism is still very much present, and it’s an issue we can’t overlook. Although I think we’re making strides, we still have a long way to go.
In your films, you portray characters who become unexpected heroes. Do you resonate with that?
I’m not typically the first to volunteer, but sometimes circumstances dictate that you must rise to the occasion. You recognize that it’s your responsibility to advocate for a cause or an idea. So, you take a stand, hold your head high, and voice your convictions.
What shaped this perspective?
My parents instilled in me the values of what it means to be a man and to lead a fulfilling life. My father made significant sacrifices to ensure my brother and I received a good education. Growing up during the Great Depression, he taught me that I could achieve anything. Both my parents emphasized the importance of pursuing aspirations that you genuinely admire, rather than chasing accolades based on others’ opinions.
What misguided advice did you encounter early in your career?
When I was 25 and still hadn’t achieved success, many would have advised me to give up. They would say, “Look at your peers who are already thriving. Their resumes are growing while yours isn’t.” That’s a common narrative many people might share with someone in my position.
What wisdom do you impart to your children?
Sometimes, the best thing we can do as parents is to step aside and allow our kids to chase their dreams. It’s crucial to remind them that achieving those dreams requires hard work and determination. They can’t just daydream without taking action. The reality is I’d do anything for my kids. That’s a powerful statement that resonates deeply.
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In summary, Kevin James reflects on the lessons learned from his parents, the importance of introspection in both career and parenting, and his fierce dedication to his children’s futures.
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