Steffiana de la Cruz is a Filipino-American actress and former model who has appeared in several films and television shows. Born on August 28, 1974, in the United States, she has carved out a career in the entertainment industry with roles in productions including “Paul Blart: Mall Cop” and “Zookeeper.” Her performances have showcased her versatility as an actress, balancing both comedic and supporting roles.
In addition to her acting career, de la Cruz is known for her long-standing marriage to comedian and actor Kevin James. The couple tied the knot on June 19, 2004, and since then, they have welcomed four children. Their partnership extends beyond their personal life, with de la Cruz having appeared in several projects where James played a leading role, such as “Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2” and occasional appearances on the television show “The King of Queens.”
De la Cruz’s personal life and career reflect a blend of consistent professional work and a balanced family life. Her foray into acting complemented by her family commitments, portrays her as a figure who maintains a presence in the public eye, while also nurturing a family with a prominent figure in comedy.
Story Stages
Early Life and Career
Steffiana de la Cruz, an actress of Filipino descent, was born on August 28, 1974, in New York City. She embarked upon a modeling career before transitioning into the acting world, featuring in several television series and films.
Modeling Beginnings
Initially, Steffiana de la Cruz pursued a modeling career which laid the foundation for her entry into the entertainment industry. Her elegant presence and photogenic qualities helped her gain recognition, leading to further opportunities in front of the camera.
Move to Acting
Her transition from modeling to acting was marked by appearances in television series like Pacific Blue. Embracing her new career path, de la Cruz continued to seek roles that showcased her range, eventually landing parts in projects such as the German television series Die Gang. This move to acting opened up new avenues for Steffiana, allowing her to cultivate a presence on both the small and big screens.
Rise to Fame
Steffiana de la Cruz, a Filipina-American actress, began to catch the public’s eye through a combination of her acting roles and her relationship with comedian and actor Kevin James. Her appearances in films and on television, paired with her marriage to James, contributed significantly to her growing recognition.
Prominent Roles
De la Cruz has featured in several films, often collaborating with her husband, Kevin James. Notably, she appeared in Zookeeper (2011) and both Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009 and 2015). Her roles in these films, while supporting, placed her in the spotlight and allowed her to demonstrate her acting skills to a broader audience.
The King of Queens
In “The King of Queens,” de la Cruz made guest appearances alongside her husband. This popular sitcom starred Kevin James and often included notable guest stars like Ray Romano. Her role in the series further established her presence in the entertainment industry and solidified her acting credentials. Her appearances on the show also highlighted the couple’s off-screen relationship, adding an intriguing dynamic to her on-screen performances.
Personal Life
Steffiana de la Cruz has a notable personal life, marked by her long-standing marriage to actor Kevin James and their shared joy in parenting four children, creating a close-knit family environment.
Marriage to Kevin James
Steffiana de la Cruz married Kevin James on June 19, 2004, at St. Edward Catholic Church in Dana Point, California. Their wedding took place amidst the scenic views of Laguna Beach, with the reception held at the Montage Resort. The couple’s journey began when they met on a blind date in 2001 and steadily progressed to a committed relationship, with Kevin proposing in 2003.
Family Life
Together, Steffiana and Kevin James have four children. Their family consists of:
- Sienna-Marie, their first child
- Shea Joelle, the second addition to their family
- Kannon Valentine, their only son
- Sistine Sabella, the youngest member
The family values their privacy, but it is clear that their children and family life are central to Steffiana and Kevin James’ world.
Filmography
Steffiana De La Cruz has made her mark in the film industry with notable roles that complement her comedic timing and adaptability.
Film Appearances
- Paul Blart: Mall Cop (2009) – The film marked one of Steffiana’s well-known roles in a comedy that gained popularity for its humorous take on mall security.
- Zookeeper (2011) – Continuing her pattern of working on comedy films, she appeared in this movie that blends humor with a unique storyline involving talking animals.
- Stealing Harvard (2002) – Showcasing her versatility, Steffiana contributed to this crime comedy film, demonstrating her range as an actress.
- Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2 (2015) – She reprised her role in this sequel, which continues the comic misadventures of the titular character.
- Grown Ups – Although not a lead, her role added to the ensemble of comedic talent in this family comedy film.
Television Roles
- The King of Queens (1998-2007) – Steffiana De La Cruz appeared in multiple episodes of this sitcom, which revolves around the life of a delivery man, his family, and friends.
- Kevin Can Wait (2016-2018) – Her participation in this show saw her take on a guest role, aligning with her previous comedic performances on television.
Public Image and Trivia
Steffiana de la Cruz maintains a personal life that in many ways reflects her career—imbued with interesting yet less-known facets, particularly her roles as a mother and her appearances in video productions alongside her husband, Kevin James.
Trivia and Lesser-Known Facts
- Children: Steffiana de la Cruz and Kevin James have four children. Their names are Sienna-Marie, born in 2005; Shea Joelle, born in 2007, after which the middle name is believed to be a nod to the iconic Shea Stadium; Kannon Valentine, born in 2011; and Sistine Sabella, born in 2015.
- Career Highlights: Aside from her appearances in her husband’s films, which include ‘Zookeeper‘ (2011) and the ‘Paul Blart: Mall Cop‘ series (2009 and 2015), she has guest-starred on the CBS sitcom ‘The King of Queens.’
- Personal Interests: De la Cruz and her family are known to have been residents of Dana Point, California, a beautiful locality known for its serene beaches and surfing opportunities.
- Philanthropy: She is occasionally seen in charity events, though she maintains a low-profile media presence.
- Associations with Celebrities: Through her marriage to Kevin James, de la Cruz has interacted with numerous celebrities, and it is speculated that through these associations she met figures like the late musician Eddie Money and actor Chris Penn.
- Unique Appearances: Rarely, de la Cruz features in videos and events that cement her public image as both an actress and the supportive wife of a well-known comedian.
