Shrinking has uniquely resonated with audiences, not only meeting my early expectations but also considerably elevating its narrative complexity in the second season. As a devoted follower of the Apple TV+ series since its inception, I can confidently say that the show, crafted by the celebrated Bill Lawrence (known for his work on Scrubs, Cougar Town, and Ted Lasso), has truly evolved into a remarkable viewing experience during its sophomore year. The series effortlessly elicits laughter and tears within the same episode, showcasing one of the strongest ensemble casts on television, punctuated by an outstanding performance from a revitalized Harrison Ford.
Shrinking presents a warm, engaging backdrop where a group of friends—many employed at a psychiatric practice—support each other while tackling life’s various hurdles. The relationship between father and daughter, Jimmy (portrayed by Jason Segel) and Alice (Lukita Maxwell), serves as a poignant thread throughout the narrative, as they navigate their shared grief following the tragic loss of their wife and mother. Notably, the arrival of co-creator Brett Goldstein in season two introduced a dynamic character that added depth to the storyline, marking a distinct elevation in the series’ emotional narrative.
Brett Goldstein’s Role on Shrinking Remained Confidential
Apple TV+ Teased Goldstein’s Casting Without Revealing His Character
Fans were ecstatic with the news of Brett Goldstein joining the season 2 cast of Shrinking. Although he contributed significantly to season 1 as a writer and co-creator, his onscreen presence was a secret until the season two premiere. In a dramatic moment, Jimmy’s furious outburst at Louis, played by Goldstein, reveals a devastating truth—Louis was the drunk driver who caused the death of Jimmy’s wife, Tia.
As the season progresses, Louis’ journey intertwines intricately with the lives of Jimmy and Alice. After Jimmy shares with Alice about Louis’ presence at his practice, she begins her own investigation, leading to a heartfelt confrontation at Louis’ workplace. Ultimately, Alice finds herself forging an unexpected bond with Louis, stemming from their mutual experience of grief and trauma. The moment when Louis asks Alice to share her memories of Tia serves as a turning point, prompting Alice to decide on forgiveness — a choice she believes her mother would have supported.
Episode Eight of Shrinking Provides Critical Context
A Heartbreaking Flashback Illuminates the Tragic Event
Season 2’s most impactful episode offers viewers insight into the pre-accident lives of both Jimmy and Louis, revealing their happiness before the tragic incident. While Jimmy enjoys family bliss, Louis is blissfully in love with his fiancée, Sarah (Meredith Hagner).The shift occurs when drunkenly insisting on driving home from a business dinner, leading to devastating consequences. Even though audiences are aware of the outcome, the scene of Jimmy arriving at the crash site is heart-wrenching and serves to deepen the emotional weight of the show.
The aftermath of the accident unravels Jimmy into a spiral of self-destructive behavior while Louis rejects Sarah’s support, illustrating their respective grief and guilt. The potency of this flashback enhances viewer sympathy for Louis, showcasing Goldstein’s ability to portray a complex character wrestling with depression and remorse.
The season culminates beautifully, with a moment of shared humanity. Both Jimmy and Louis find themselves at critical lows, ultimately connecting through their experiences of loss. Their brief yet profound exchange at the train station encapsulates the pain and struggle both men have faced, concluding a nearly flawless season of storytelling.
Brett Goldstein’s Apprehensions About His Role
Jason Segel Advocated for Goldstein’s Casting After Lawrence’s Doubts
Image via Apple TV+
Brett Goldstein, while integral to the creative vision of Shrinking, was not the initial choice for the role of Louis; this character represented a significant shift from his portrayal of Roy Kent in Ted Lasso. Although Goldstein was expected to have a comedic role eventually, it was Jason Segel who recognized the perfect fit for Louis and presented the idea to Bill Lawrence. As Goldstein recounted:
“Bill had been trying to get me to at least do a cameo, something funny. Then we’d written this character for season two, and we were about to cast it when Jason brought me and Bill into his trailer and said, ‘Why isn’t Brett doing this part?’… Bill was like, ‘I don’t see it.’ But he called me the next morning and said something very sincere. He said, ‘I think you’re a real artist, and if you think you can do this, I will support you.’ It was scary, but f**k it, let’s give it a go. Anything scary, you should probably be doing.
Even after landing the role, Goldstein held reservations, but he was eager for the challenge, taking inspiration from David Bowie’s creative philosophy in the process:
“Doing this character was scary. David Bowie had this analogy about walking out to sea. Someone asked him about how he made decisions creatively. Bowie said, ‘You know when you walk out to sea, and your feet are on the ground?’ and the person said, ‘Yeah.’ He said, ‘Then you walk a bit further, and your feet are still on the ground, but the waves are now up to your chin?’ and the other person said, ‘Yeah, ’ and then Bowie said, ‘You know when you step a little bit further, and your feet are just slightly hovering over the ground? That’s when you should do the thing.’ That makes sense to me.”
Goldstein thrives in the role of Louis, beautifully conveying a blend of empathy, sorrow, and nuanced wit reminiscent of his previous performances. Both Lawrence and I never anticipated Goldstein taking such a profound role, yet his performance undeniably demonstrates his exceptional range and talent.
Production for Season 3 of Shrinking to Commence Soon
Louis’ Future Remains Uncertain as Goldstein Has Not Confirmed Return
Christa Miller, who portrays Liz, has revealed that filming for season 3 of Shrinking is slated to begin in February 2025, aiming for a later release within the year. Although details surrounding the new season’s plot are scarce, it’s anticipated that unresolved story arcs—such as Gaby’s new relationship, Paul’s health struggles, Brian’s journey into fatherhood, and the ongoing healing process for Jimmy and Alice—will carry over into the next installment.
A critical thematic thread that should persist is the evolving relationship between Louis, Jimmy, and Alice as Louis seeks self-forgiveness. While Goldstein’s future with the show remains unconfirmed, given his recently renewed contract associated with Ted Lasso, it seems feasible for him to return to Shrinking.
There are still many layers yet to unravel regarding Louis’ character, inviting intriguing discussions about a family navigating a relationship with the very person who caused their devastating loss. This emotional landscape creates fertile ground for storytelling, and I look forward to witnessing how these relationships continue to develop. Moreover, a reunion with Sarah would add another captivating layer, as the chemistry between the two is palpable—and surely, after everything Louis has endured, he deserves a chance at happiness.
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