Kevin James will return for a sequel to 'Paul Blart: Mall Cop'.

The 48-year-old funnyman is set to star in a follow-up to his surprise hit 2009 comedy about a bumbling security guard at a New Jersey shopping centre.

TheWrap.com reports 'Parental Guidance' director Andy Fickman will helm the sequel, taking over the duties from Steve Carr.

Fickman previously helmed hit features such as Disney's 'The Game Plan' and 'Race to Witch Mountain'.

Sony Pictures and Adam Sandler's Happy Madison Productions will produce the sequel, which could begin filming as soon as April.

The first film proved to be a hit at the box office - despite being critically panned - taking $180 million worldwide.

James co-write the script with Nick Bakay and will also produce the film.

Since shooting the first 'Paul Blart' flick, James has had success in the 'Grown Ups' franchise with Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, David Spade and Rob Schneider.

He has also had roles in 'Zookeeper' and 'Here Comes the Boom'.

The actor shot to fame in TV sitcom 'The King of Queens' with Leah Remini.