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Billy Gardell

A self-deprecating, street-wise stand-up comic, Billy Gardell's ingratiating humor led to an acting career that included stints on "My Name is Earl" (NBC, 2005-09) and his own sitcom, "Mike and Molly" (CBS, 2010-16). A veteran of the tour circuit before he reached 21, Gardell's humor - which poked knowing fun at his own large frame and appetite - made him a favorite among clubgoers, which in turn led to guest shots on TV and in films like "Bad Santa" (2003). He made the rounds as a guest star and recurring character for a decade before landing his starring role on "Mike and Molly" as an overweight police officer who enters into a romantic relationship with an equally plus-sized teacher (Melissa McCarthy). The positive response to his heartfelt performance signaled that Gardell had bloomed into a capable leading man.