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. 

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