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

Gray Perrier, Liv Revamped & Zariah Aura Star in New Transfixed Release

Gray Perrier stars with Liv Revamped and Zariah Aura in the latest release from Transfixed, titled "Bachelorette Stripper Switcheroo."

Reptyle Debuts Cross-Site Release 'Mom vs. Girlfriend'

Reptyle is launching a cross-site release on its Family Strokes, MYLF, Freeuse, and TeamSkeet imprints, titled “Mom vs. Girlfriend.”

Sara Jay Makes Her MILFY Debut

Sara Jay has made her debut for Vixen Media Group (VMG) studio imprint MILFY, alongside Hollywood Cash.

MsSexySaigon Stars in New Release From FreeUse

MsSexySaigon stars with Josh Rivers and Jason Sarcinelli in a new release from FreeUse.

Addison Vodka Headlines 'Infidelity 5' From Sweet Sinner

Addison Vodka toplines "Infidelity 5," the latest release from Mile High Media studio brand Sweet Sinner.

Elise London Stars in Latest Release From FreeUse

Elise London stars with Joshua Lewis in the latest release from FreeUse.

Charlie Forde, Eva Nyx Headline Latest From Family Strokes

Charlie Forde and Eva Nyx star with Anthony Pierce and Jason Sarcinelli in the latest release from Family Strokes.

Amy Lynne Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Amy Lynne stars with her husband Steve and Hollywood Cash in the latest release from Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY.

Lady Gang Performs Final Scene for Immoral

Lady Gang stars in a new trilogy from Immoral Productions, alongside Matt Bird, Charlie Dean, and site honcho “Porno Dan” Leal.

Kasey Kei Leads Latest From TransSensual

Kasey Kei stars with Avery Lust and Nicole Vaunt in the latest scene from Mile High Media studio imprint TransSensual, titled “Succubus Séance.”

Show More