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Kevin James Shares Unforgettable Experience with Hotel Pests

2/20/2026, 10:21:53 PM

Unexpected Encounter During a Comedy Gig

Actor and comedian Kevin James recently recounted a challenging experience from his early career during an appearance on Theo Von’s podcast, "This Past Weekend." He described a grueling eight-hour drive to a one-night stand-up gig that offered minimal pay after accounting for travel expenses. Upon arriving, James checked into a low-quality motel, intending to rest before his performance. However, his plans took an unfortunate turn when he discovered a cockroach in the blanket after pulling it back to take a nap.

Despite the unpleasant surprise, James opted not to request a different room. Instead, he simply put the blanket back and chose to wait in his car until it was time for the show. After completing his set, he drove the eight hours back home, stating, "Man, I’m not staying with a roach. Couldn’t do it." His experience highlights the often-overlooked realities of life on the road for performers.

Expert Advice on Pest Encounters

Following James' account, pest control experts provided insights on how travelers can manage encounters with pests in hotels. Shannon Sked, national technical director at Orkin, emphasized the importance of taking precautions when checking into accommodations. She advised travelers to keep their belongings elevated and away from soft surfaces, suggesting that the bathroom, particularly the bathtub, is a suitable place to store luggage while inspecting the room for signs of pest activity.

Sked noted that common hotel pests, such as roaches and bedbugs, are adept at hitchhiking and can easily spread through luggage. If guests encounter a pest, they should promptly notify the front desk to address the issue.

Kevin James: A Brief Overview

Kevin James is widely recognized for his role in the long-running sitcom "The King of Queens" and his collaborations with Adam Sandler in films like "Grown Ups." Currently, he stars in the new film "Solo Mio," which features Jonathan Roumie and is now in theaters.

Criticism & Opposition

While James' experience sheds light on the challenges faced by traveling performers, it also raises questions about the standards of cleanliness and pest control in budget accommodations. Critics argue that hotels should maintain higher hygiene standards to ensure guest safety and comfort.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “I literally just put the blanket back,” — Kevin James, Actor and Comedian
  • “Man, I’m not staying with a roach. Couldn’t do it.” — Kevin James, Actor and Comedian

This incident serves as a reminder of the potential pitfalls of budget travel and the importance of vigilance when staying in motels or hotels.