From Sitcom Royalty To MCU Star: Kat Dennings’ 15 Essential Movies And TV Shows You Must Watch Now

Kat Dennings has built one of the most unique and beloved careers in modern Hollywood, mastering the art of the quick-witted, sardonic, and deeply relatable character. As of December 2025, her filmography is a fascinating blend of blockbuster superhero franchises, long-running network sitcoms, and critically acclaimed indie films, proving her versatility far beyond the snarky cashier Max Black.

This comprehensive guide dives into the essential movies and TV shows that define her career, from her early days on *Sex and the City* to her highly-anticipated return to network comedy alongside Tim Allen in the new 2025 ABC sitcom, *Shifting Gears*. We’ll explore the roles that solidified her status as a pop culture icon and reveal the latest projects that keep her firmly in the spotlight.

Kat Dennings: Complete Biography and Profile

Katherine Victoria Litwack, known professionally as Kat Dennings, is an American actress whose signature dark hair and expressive eyes have made her a distinct presence on screen. Born on June 13, 1986, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, she began her career at a young age, demonstrating a talent for comedy and drama that quickly set her apart.

• Shania Twains Bold Statement Why The Star Chose Nude Photoshoots At 57 Qf9cg

• Full Name: Katherine Victoria Litwack
• Date of Birth: June 13, 1986
• Place of Birth: Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, U.S.
• Spouse: Andrew W.K. (m. 2023)
• Debut Role: An appearance on the HBO dramedy series *Sex and the City* in 2000.
• Breakout TV Role: Max Black in the CBS sitcom *2 Broke Girls* (2011–2017).
• Iconic MCU Role: Darcy Lewis, first appearing in *Thor* (2011).
• Current Project: Starring as Riley in the ABC sitcom *Shifting Gears* (2025).

The Current Era: Shifting Gears and MCU Continuity (2020–2025)

The period from 2020 to 2025 marks a powerful evolution in Dennings’ career, showcasing her ability to anchor both major streaming hits and return to the traditional network television format.

The Return to Network Comedy: Shifting Gears (2025)

The most current and highly anticipated project in Dennings' filmography is the ABC sitcom *Shifting Gears*, which premiered in January 2025. The series brings her back to the world of multi-camera comedy, a genre she dominated with *2 Broke Girls*.

Dennings stars as Riley, the estranged daughter of Matt, a stubborn, widowed owner of a classic car restoration shop, played by Tim Allen. The plot centers on Riley and her children moving into Matt’s house, forcing a family reunion and the "real restoration" of their relationship. Dennings' involvement is significant, as she also serves as a producer on the series, giving her a deeper creative role.

• The Enduring Legacy Of Haylor 5 Shocking Facts About Harry Styles And Taylor Swifts Relationship 10 Years Later Sf662

The MCU Powerhouse: Darcy Lewis’s Triumphant Return

For many fans, Kat Dennings is synonymous with Darcy Lewis, the sarcastic and brilliant political science major who became Dr. Jane Foster's intern. After her initial appearances in the *Thor* films, the character experienced a massive resurgence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

• WandaVision (2021): Darcy returned as an astrophysicist, now a doctor, who helps S.W.O.R.D. investigate the Westview anomaly. Her evolution from an intern to a scientist was a fan-favorite development, solidifying her status as a key supporting character.
• What If...? (2021–2024): Dennings reprised the role as a voice actor for the animated series, continuing Darcy Lewis’s journey through the Marvel multiverse until 2024.
• Thor: Love and Thunder (2022): While her character was not a primary focus, the groundwork laid in *WandaVision* ensured that Darcy remains a vital part of the wider MCU narrative.

Her role as Darcy Lewis has transcended the comic book genre, making her character a beloved entity who provides necessary comedic relief and grounding in a world of gods and monsters.

The Essential Filmography: From Indie Darling to Sitcom Queen

Before her current projects, Dennings established a formidable career in both television and film, demonstrating a range that spans dark comedy, teen angst, and broad appeal sitcoms.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

Television Roles That Defined Her Career

While *2 Broke Girls* is her most recognized television work, Dennings has consistently chosen projects that allow her to explore complex, witty characters.

• 2 Broke Girls (2011–2017): As Max Black, Dennings spent six seasons delivering rapid-fire, often dark, one-liners opposite Beth Behrs' Caroline Channing. The show, which centered on two mismatched waitresses trying to start a cupcake business, was a global phenomenon and remains a defining role.
• Dollface (2019–2022): Dennings starred as Jules Wiley, a woman navigating the complexities of female friendships after a sudden breakup. The Hulu series was a showcase for her ability to blend surreal comedy with genuine emotional vulnerability, and she also served as an executive producer.
• Sex and the City (2000): Her very first television role was a guest appearance on this iconic HBO series, setting the stage for her future in sharp-tongued New York-centric comedy.

Key Movie Roles and Indie Gems

Dennings’ movie career is characterized by memorable supporting and leading roles in films that often capture the spirit of youth and rebellion.

• Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist (2008): This romantic comedy is a fan-favorite, where she starred opposite Michael Cera. Her portrayal of Norah, a cynical but secretly romantic high schooler, earned her critical praise and cemented her status as an indie film darling.
• The 40-Year-Old Virgin (2005): One of her early, high-profile roles was a supporting turn in this Judd Apatow comedy, which helped propel her into the mainstream.
• Charlie Bartlett (2007): Starring alongside Anton Yelchin and Robert Downey Jr., Dennings played Susan Gardner, the daughter of the school principal, in this cult-favorite teen comedy.
• Defendor (2009): A darker turn, this film saw her star opposite Woody Harrelson in a story about an ordinary man who decides to become a superhero.
• Thor (2011) & Thor: The Dark World (2013): Her foundational appearances as Darcy Lewis, introducing the character to the MCU and providing a grounded, humorous perspective on the cosmic events unfolding around Jane Foster.
• Daydream Nation (2010): She played Caroline Wexler in this Canadian drama, a complex role that further demonstrated her dramatic capabilities.
• Friendsgiving (2020): A recent comedy where she starred alongside Malin Åkerman and Aisha Tyler, focusing on the chaos of a Thanksgiving celebration.

From the cynical wit of Max Black to the scientific intelligence of Dr. Darcy Lewis, Kat Dennings has consistently chosen roles that allow her to showcase her unique comedic timing and depth. With the success of *WandaVision* and the highly-anticipated premiere of *Shifting Gears* in 2025, her career continues to evolve, promising many more years of captivating performances across all platforms.