The adult entertainment world is a little less bright today with the news that producer, director, and beloved reality TV personality Cousin Stevie has passed away at the age of 82. Known for his larger-than-life personality and infectious humor, Stevie became a household name for many through the hit Showtime series “Family Business.”
Stevie, whose real name was Stephen Z. monetized his familial connection to his famous cousin, producer Seymore Butts, to carve out a unique space in the industry. He wasn’t just a background player; as a co-star on “Family Business,” which gave viewers a peek behind the curtain of Butts’s professional and personal life, Stevie’s charm and wit made him a breakout star and an unforgettable character.
A Personality “Bigger Than Life”
Tributes from friends and colleagues paint a picture of a man who was as genuine and generous as he was funny. His impact went far beyond the screen, often shaping the careers of those he met along the way. Industry veteran Kevin Blatt shared a story with XBIZ that perfectly captures Stevie’s spirit.
“He was one of these guys that just had a personality that was bigger than life,” Blatt recalled. “He was funny. He was hilarious. He was like your dirty uncle, you know. I met him in line at the Venetian, and he put in a word for me at a company he was working for, and the next thing I knew, I was hired… I don’t know if I would be where I am today because the first nest egg that I ever made, commission-wise, was from that job.”
Beyond his reality TV fame, Stevie was a creator in his own right, famously directing the popular “Cousin Stevie’s Pussy Party” series, which ran for two dozen volumes.
“Always Greet You With a Smile”
For many, Stevie was a constant, friendly face at industry events, known for his warmth and straightforward “East Coast, no B.S. vibe.” His generosity extended to being open and welcoming, always willing to share a story or give access to his projects.
Dan Davis, Director of Operations for Exxxotica, told XBIZ how deeply the news hit.
“Stevie was always one of the first to greet you with a smile and hug… We shared that East Coast, no B.S. vibe, and always appreciated his candor, stories and talks. While I was an editor for Genesis and Club magazines, he always welcomed us on set or gave us access to whatever he was working on… it was always great to pick up right where we left off.”
A Truly Memorable Character
In an industry filled with unique personalities, Cousin Stevie stood out. He brought a sense of fun and authenticity that resonated with both his peers and a mainstream audience. He wasn’t just playing a part; he was simply being himself.
Producer and director Will Ryder summed up what made Stevie so special.
“Cousin Stevie always had a smile on his face and a fun little side story to share. He certainly had his big moments in the spotlight with their Showtime TV series and was a real character. Life needs more memorable characters, and he was one for sure.”
As the industry remembers him, it’s clear that Cousin Stevie’s legacy is one of laughter, kindness, and being an unapologetically original character in a world that desperately needs them.
* Photo from xbiz.com
