Is the popular TikTok art teacher known as Matt Taylor actually Kevin James?
Although the 60-year-old actor, famous for his role in King of Queens, has not publicly addressed this speculation, evidence suggests that the TikTok personality @thisismatttaylor and James may be the same individual.
Continue reading for further details…
Kevin James and His New Persona
James would not be the first celebrity to adopt a new public persona; Riverdale actor KJ Apa is reportedly doing something similar with a musical character named Mr. Fantasy. However, in contrast to Apa’s situation, James appears to be openly embracing this new identity. The resemblance between him and “Matt Taylor” is striking, with no obvious disguises or alterations in appearance.
Upcoming Film: Solo Mio
The prevailing theory suggests that the TikTok account serves as a covert marketing strategy for James’s forthcoming film, Solo Mio, where he is listed on IMDb as portraying a character named “Matt.” Additionally, he co-wrote the screenplay.
The film’s synopsis reads: “After being left at the altar in Rome, Matt embarks on his honeymoon alone, exploring Italy’s stunning landscapes, culture, and people.”
It is possible that the TikTok videos were recorded in advance and are being released gradually. Currently, the account features 20 videos primarily focused on art, creativity, inspiration, and personal updates, all maintaining an uplifting tone.
Similar promotional strategies have been used in other films, such as Spree, a 2020 horror-comedy starring Joe Keery. In that case, the actor and his team developed an online persona for his character, Kurt Kunkle (@kurtsworld96), who is a rideshare driver obsessed with achieving viral fame. However, Kurt’s story takes a darker turn.
Interestingly, Stranger Things actor DJO also shares many traits with Mr. Fantasy.
Public Reception of Matt Taylor
If the Matt Taylor TikTok account is indeed a promotional tool for Solo Mio, it appears to be an effective strategy. The account has attracted nearly 800,000 followers, and the videos have collectively received 7.1 million likes. The only account followed by Matt is that of Ed Sheeran.
Viewers have drawn comparisons between Taylor and the beloved artist Bob Ross, expressing a desire for the character to persist even after the film’s release, should the marketing theory be confirmed. Some users humorously noted that they don’t mind being “gaslit” by the charming art teacher.
“I’m going to miss Mr. Taylor when he returns to being Kevin James,” one commenter remarked on a video. Another added, “So Kevin James is pulling a KJ Apa? ,” referring to the character of Mr. Fantasy.
Regardless of the circumstances, it seems that audiences are fully engaged with Matt Taylor and are eager to see what unfolds!
Solo Mio is set to premiere in theaters on February 6, 2026.
