The third season of “Shrinking” showcases a significant evolution from its earlier episodes, as the show finds its voice and delves deeper into the emotional complexities of its characters. Created by Bill Lawrence, Brett Goldstein, and Jason Segel, this season continues to follow Segel’s character, Jimmy, a therapist grappling with grief following the death of his wife. Rather than sticking solely to the premise of a therapist who crosses ethical lines, the narrative this season shifts toward the intricate relationships between people who are often more familiar with each other than with themselves.
As Season 3 opens, Jimmy faces a poignant transition—his daughter Alice, portrayed by Lukita Maxwell, is preparing to leave home. This departure is not just a typical coming-of-age moment; it signifies a profound change for Jimmy, who has relied on Alice as a source of stability after the loss of his wife. The season explores the various life chapters that prompt personal growth, whether they stem from graduations, new beginnings, or health diagnoses.
One significant storyline involves Paul, played by Harrison Ford, who receives a Parkinson’s diagnosis from a guest-starring Michael J. Fox. This development sets the stage for Paul to confront the complexities of mortality, as he considers passing his practice onto Jimmy or Gaby (Jessica Williams). Amidst these heavy themes, the writing remains grounded, with well-rendered character arcs that navigate the inherent clichés of life. The cast’s performances, particularly those of Segel and Ford, anchor the storytelling, allowing the audience to connect with universal experiences.
The series continues to address the recurring theme of grief, demonstrating how loss can resurface unexpectedly. This season sees Gaby grappling with her own grief, highlighting the series’ narrative that although we strive to help those we love, ultimately, individuals must confront their own challenges. The emotional stakes are heightened as Jimmy confronts unresolved feelings for his estranged father, portrayed by Jeff Daniels, while processing the impending losses represented by Alice and Paul.
The ensemble cast has grown into their roles, with increased depth given to Gaby and the supporting characters such as Sean (Luke Tennie), Brian (Michael Urie), and Liz (Christa Miller). While the show has faced criticism for occasionally sidelining certain characters, this season aims to rectify that, providing meaningful arcs that enhance the overall narrative.
With creator Bill Lawrence stating that the theme of the season is “moving forward,” “Shrinking” offers a touching exploration of how people navigate life’s inevitable changes. As emotional repressed memories surface, the series emphasizes the importance of community and the profound connections that help us through challenging times. The first season presented a setup, but Season 3 of “Shrinking” reflects a heartfelt, humanistic examination of relationships, resilience, and the unconditional love that supports us, even when life takes unexpected turns.
The entire season was previewed for review, and “Shrinking” is set to premiere on Apple TV on January 28.