Ari David Shaffir (born February 12, 1974) is an American comedian, actor, podcaster, writer, and producer.

He created and previously hosted and produced the This is Not Happening television series, an adaptation of his monthly stand-up show.

He went on to study for two years at Yeshiva in Jerusalem[6] before transferring to University of Maryland, where he graduated in 1999 with a degree in English literature.

[2] Following his graduation from university, Shaffir moved to Los Angeles to improve his chances of success as a stand-up comedian.

[7] He took up work answering the phones at The Comedy Store, which led to positions in the cover booth and "the door", until owner Mitzi Shore made him a paid regular four and a half years later.

The following year he created, produced and hosted the monthly live show This Is Not Happening, with Eric Abrams, a stand-up comedy featuring numerous comedians telling true-life stories around a theme.

[11] He left the show as producer and host in 2017 after selling his third special, Double Negative, to Netflix rather than Comedy Central.

Shaffir spent several years earning a living as a commercial actor, appearing in ads for Coke Zero, Subway, Dominos, and Bud Light.

[16] Following the death of Kobe Bryant, Shaffir caused controversy after he posted a video on his Twitter page celebrating the event.