Season 3,

Air Date: Wednesday, Jan 28 on Apple TV

Rating: [rating=4]

Since the writing of this review, it has been announced that Shrinking has been picked up for a fourth season, ensuring that the emotional journeys and character developments will continue to unfold in future episodes.

“Fuck Parkinson’s.” – Gerry

As Alice (Lukita Maxwell) prepares to graduate high school and head off to college, Jimmy (Jason Segel) grapples with the prospect of being alone as he struggles to allow himself to find love. Meanwhile, Paul (Harrison Ford), confronted with the reality that his Parkinson’s medication may stop working within the next few months, contemplates life beyond the clinic. Will either man find peace in their new realities, or fall victim to old habits?

Shrinking returns for its third season, picking up right where things left off. The Emmy-nominated show from creators Segel, Bill Lawrence, and Brett Goldstein quickly reminds us that life isn’t about finding a cure for your pain but learning to live with it. This season, the focus turns even more inward as the core cast learns that moving forward is the only way out.

I love the working relationship between Jimmy and Paul, especially as Jimmy continues to seek validation from his longtime mentor. I haven’t always been a fan of Segel, but holding his own for three seasons alongside Ford has clearly rubbed off on him and strengthened him as an actor. In turn, you get a sense that despite Paul’s gruff exterior, he has a soft spot for Jimmy. Their relationship takes a few twists and turns this season, and I’m excited to see fan reactions along the way, especially for them to see the lead up to Ford’s “Goat” moment seen in the trailer; prepare to go nuts.

While it’s Jason Segel’s show, and Harrison Ford cast for his star power, it’s Jessica Williams as Gaby who steals every scene when she’s on screen. There is a lot of focus on Gaby and her future this season, and it all feels well earned. Gaby is no stranger to saying what’s on her mind; however, this season, there is a newfound confidence coupled with more authority to her voice. When she speaks, you listen. Gaby  has several standout moments where she steps up delivering some hard-earned truth. This is a testament to Williams’ talent that she’s able to shine just as bright alongside Segel and Ford.

When it comes to cooking, cream of tartar is one of those ingredients found in most home spice racks, yet few people understand why it’s needed or how important it is to a recipe because of how it interacts with other ingredients. Rachel Stubington, who plays Summer, is the cream of tartar of the series. Although she isn’t a lead character, she appears in almost every episode, paired with a different main character each time. While she doesn’t have a major storyline of her own this season, her presence brings added humor to every scene. Many writers might have written her character off, but that’s what separates good shows from average ones. The writers’ recognize that even without a central arc, this talented young actress leaves a unique mark on every scene she’s in.

Stubington isn’t the only one. This season is populated by characters who are used beyond what might be considered necessary, simply because their presence elevates the material. Damon Wayans Jr. returns as Derrick No. 2, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing more of him this season. Rather than using him solely for scenes with his girlfriend Gaby, the writers find other ways to incorporate him away from her, enriching the world beyond their relationship.

It’s no secret that Michael J. Fox makes a guest appearance this season as Gerry. It’s difficult to separate the man from the character he plays, especially as he reunites with Spin City co-creator Bill Lawrence. His scenes feel less like a typical cameo and more like a heartfelt tribute, almost a final curtain call, as Fox continues to navigate the challenges of his Parkinson’s disease. On first viewing, it seems as though the writers are heading in one direction, which I thought was absolutely brilliant. However, when Fox’s schedule opened up, they shifted course to give him more screen time. I’ll need to revisit his episodes as the message feels slightly lost along the way. Regardless, it’s wonderful to see him back on screen, effortlessly injecting that unmistakable Fox charm into the series.

Actor Jeff Daniels also pays a visit to the series this season as Jimmy’s dad. The writers give the legendary actor a very specific storyline, and he fits the role perfectly. Still, when his arc winds down, I found myself wanting more. I enjoyed watching the chemistry between Daniels and Segel as the father and son often find themselves butting heads. Hopefully, if the series is picked up for a fourth season, the dynamic between father and son can be explored further.

My only gripe with Season 3 is that it introduces fewer patients compared to previous seasons. Getting to know the patients has been a fun way for the writers to introduce a wide range of unique characters. The tradeoff is that this season turns its focus inward on the core cast. As a result, there’s a significant amount of character development, giving the viewer a much more personal connection to each of them.

Ultimately, this focus pays off. Shrinking has been especially rewarding to watch as characters on both sides of the couch heal and grow. With a series centered on therapy – with  Season 1 focused on grief, Season 2 exploring forgiveness, and now Season 3 ultimately becomes about moving forward. Despite its 11-episode run, the writers make the most of this season, giving each main character space to shine and evolve. By the finale, the season is full of more ups than downs, and the journey feels earned.

While there are still stories left to be told, Season 4 has yet to be announced by Apple TV+. Season 3 feels more like a series finale. Major storylines wrap up, creating a real sense of accomplishment. Things will certainly be different if a fourth season happens but realizing that only makes you want it more.

Shrinking Season 3 premiered on Jan. 28 on Apple TV+.

For more information on Shrinking, visit the official website.

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