As a teenager, Gardell worked in a department store warehouse, loading and unloading pallets. In 1987, he took a job at a local comedy club called Bonkerz, where he cleaned bathrooms, answered phones, and seated guests. Eventually, a dare from coworkers led him to try performing during the club’s open-mic nights, launching his journey into stand-up comedy.

Career in Comedy and Television

Gardell began performing stand-up in 1989 and has since built a steady career in both comedy and television. He gained national recognition for his lead role as Officer Mike Biggs in the CBS sitcom Mike & Molly, which aired from 2010 to 2016. His role as a kind-hearted Chicago police officer showcased his ability for both comedic timing and dramatic sentiment.

He previously appeared in several episodes of the NBC sitcom My Name is Earl as a recurring character, Officer Hoyne. Gardell also had a recurring role as Lyle Winkler on the TBS comedy series Sullivan & Son. In animation, he voiced Santa Claus in the 2011 television special Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas.

Personal Life and Family

Billy Gardell married Patty Knight in 2001. The couple has one son. Gardell has talked about his desire to shift careers or retire when his son becomes a teenager in order to spend more quality time with his family. He continues to visit Florida regularly to see his parents and maintains a close relationship with his family.

He is a member of the International Thespian Society and credits his grandmother for inspiring him to pursue comedy, noting that she encouraged his talent from an early age. While Bonkerz Comedy Club played a key role in starting his career, it was his familial support that truly sparked his passion for performance.