As Apple TV Plus’ acclaimed comedy-drama Shrinking returns for its third season, lead actor Jason Segel opens up about the profound personal lessons he has gleaned from the tearjerking series. The show, which follows therapist Jimmy as he navigates grief after his wife’s sudden death, has not only captivated audiences but also empowered the star in unexpected ways.
From Big Bird to Bite: Segel’s Personal Growth
In a candid reflection, Segel, 45, admits that his character Jimmy has taught him to be more assertive. ‘I’m very Big Bird in real life, so having a little bit more bite is something I’m learning,’ he tells Metro. He compares this evolution to embracing a ‘Michael Keaton energy,’ highlighting how the role has freed him to express displeasure more openly, a trait he admires in Jimmy.
Harrison Ford’s Meta Influence
The actor’s growth is further inspired by his co-star Harrison Ford, who plays the dry-witted Dr Paul Rhoades. Segel reveals that filming scenes with Ford, especially in the season two finale where Paul discloses a Parkinson’s diagnosis, felt deeply meta. ‘We’re sitting there weeping disproportionate to the scene because who knows if Harrison Ford does another TV show?’ he explains, noting how Ford’s dialogue about honour and family resonated with the cast’s real-life dynamics.
Segel adds that every onscreen tribute to Paul feels like a genuine acknowledgment of working with Ford, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. This connection has provided him with invaluable wisdom from the Hollywood legend.
Honesty on Set: Ford’s Refreshing Approach
Observing Ford’s work ethic has been a masterclass for Segel. He shares with awe that Ford ‘refuses to’ rely on past successes, instead approaching each scene with fresh preparation and honesty. ‘The goal is to be as honest as possible between takes, and everything else is a little bit of a cheat,’ Segel concludes, emphasising that this authenticity elevates the show’s emotional impact.
Emotional Depth with Co-Stars
This honesty shines brightly in poignant scenes, such as the season two finale where Jimmy saves Brett Goldstein’s character Louis from suicide. Segel describes filming this moment as ‘very real,’ noting that he and Goldstein, both ‘gentle, soft boys,’ have had similar heartfelt conversations off-screen. He believes this scene encapsulates the series’ essence, balancing absurdity and heartbreak to explore vulnerability.
The Show’s Unique Resonance
Shrinking stands out in today’s TV landscape by fostering genuine connections with fans. Segel echoes Ford’s observation that viewers often approach them not for selfies but to share personal stories, like losing a partner. ‘It brings out vulnerability in people, which I think is one of the goals of making stuff,’ he explains, likening this reception to a pre-iPhone era of meaningful interaction.
The show’s magic, according to Segel, lies in using comedy as a ‘Trojan horse’ to tackle hard topics, a technique he has honed since projects like Forgetting Sarah Marshall. With season three premiering on January 28, 2026, and previous seasons streaming on Apple TV Plus, Shrinking continues to offer a heartfelt reflection on life’s messiness and resilience.
