James Deen to Appear on Showtime’s ‘Happyish’

NEW YORK — Adult film performer James Deen recently wrapped a guest star appearance on an episode of Showtime’s upcoming comedy “Happyish.”

In the episode, Deen plays himself teaching series lead Steve Coogan the meaning of happiness through the eyes of a porn star.

The first season of “Happyish” is currently filming in New York and will premiere April 26.

Deen filmed Episode #1.8 over the course of several days in New York. “It was super fun to guest star on this show,” Deen said. “Everyone was rad and great to work with. I am really proud of this, and I think it will be a good show.”

“Happyish” follows Thom Payne (Coogan), as he struggles with aging, the feeling of insignificance, and the desire to rediscover happiness. The show’s IMDB page reads, “In a culture that reveres youth — a culture he helped create — Thom needs to figure out what his purpose is now that he's halfway to death and nobody cares what he thinks. Because in a world where any Kardashian is trending up, perhaps the wise among us would heartily embrace trending down.”

Created by Shalom Auslander, the “Happyish” cast includes Coogan, Kathryn Hahn, Ellen Barkin, Carrie Preston and Bradley Whitford.

The airdate of “Happyish” Episode #1.8 is June 7.

In addition to his extensive resume as an adult performer for his production company, James Deen Productions, and website, JamesDeen.com, Deen has also been embraced by Hollywood.

Deen starred opposite Lindsay Lohan in 2013’s “The Canyons,” written by Bret Easton Ellis and directed by Paul Schrader. Credited as a co-producer on the film, Deen documented his experience in an article for TheDailyBeast.com.

Deen is also a producer on 2015’s steampunk-inspired Western short film “Cowboys & Engines,” which stars Malcolm McDowell (“Star Trek: Generations”), Richard Hatch ("Battlestar Galactica"), Walter Koenig ("Star Trek," "Babylon 5"), and newcomer Libby Letlow. 

Related:  

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Kasey Kei, Ameena Green Star in Latest From Evil Angel

Kasey Kei and Ameena Green star in a scene from Evil Angel.

Evil Angel Debuts Proxy Paige's 'All Aboard The Trans Express'

Evil Angel has released director Proxy Paige’s new title, “All Aboard The Trans Express.”

Angela White Leads Latest From Brazzers

Multi-XMAs winner Angela White stars with Victor Ray in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "BuZZed and Boned."

Ariel Demure, Lulu Chu Star in New Transfixed Release

Reigning and two-time XMAs Trans Performer of the Year Ariel Demure stars with Lulu Chu in the latest release from Transfixed, titled "A Matter of Principal."

Elizabeth Skylar, Isa Bella Topline 'Tempted by the Babysitter' From Sweetheart Video

Elizabeth Skylar and Isa Bella headline “Tempted by the Babysitter” from Mile High Media studio imprint Sweetheart Video.

Kira McKay Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Kira McKay stars with her husband Jerome and Dan Damage in the latest release from Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY.

Calita Fire Toplines 'Swingers Resort' From Private

Calita First headlines the latest release from Private, titled “Swingers Resort.”

Octavia Red, Vince Karter Star in Latest From Elegant Angel

Recent XMA winners Octavia Red and Vince Karter star in the latest release from Elegant Angel, titled "Octavia Red Demure in Paris."

Ricky Johnson on Building His Enterprise One Sleepless Night at a Time

Ricky Johnson is always in motion. Even as he takes time out of his busy shooting schedule to chat with XBIZ, there’s restless energy behind the calm. This makes it easy to envision a younger version of Johnson, back when he arrived on the adult scene with no connections — but a great deal of persistence.

Ameena Green on Delayed Gratification and Finding her 'Synthesis' Moment

In an industry that sometimes moves at breakneck speed, Ameena Green is taking it slow.

Show More