Shrinkingis one of the most entertaining and underrated shows on streaming at the moment, and its second season is proving to be even stronger than its first. The show has done a great job of expanding each character’s storyline in thoughtful and meaningful ways, while also introducing many new faces to Shrinking’s cast that may be familiar to some audiences from other popular comedy shows. These surprise appearances have been my highlight of the season, and most importantly, their characters have served genuine purposes to the existing story.
Shrinking follows the exploits of two unconventional therapists, played by Jason Segel and Harrison Ford, whose personal relationships with their clients often get in the way of their professional work. It’s a very moving and wholesome show that blends comedy with drama in such an effortless way, with Segel and Ford giving two of their most down-to-earth performances as two close friends despite having very little in common. Their dynamic has always been my favorite part of the show, but Shrinking Season 2’s many guest stars have also improved the show strongly.
Shrinking Season 2 Combines Actors From How I Met Your Mother, Ted Lasso, & New Girl
Jason Segel Is Joined By More Comedy Veterans
The first guest star to make an appearance in Shrinking season 2 is New Girl’s Damon Wayans Jr, who plays the character of Derrick. He’s an exciting new love interest for Gaby, whose on-and-off relationship with Jimmy formed much of the first season’s drama. However, her character seems to be on a new track now, and Derrick plays a large role in that journey. His involvement in the show had me extremely excited, as New Girl was often compared with How I Met Your Mother, which is where Shrinking’s Jason Segel made a name for himself.
The soundtrack is a vital part of Apple TV+'s Shrinking season 2 as Jimmy, Paul, Gaby, and the rest of the characters navigate new challenges.
Incidentally, Shrinking offered up an exciting How I Met Your Mother reunion with the arrival of Cobie Smulders, who played Robin on the CBS sitcom. She plays Sophie on Shrinking, a single mother and potential love interest for protagonist Jimmy in the future. It’s not uncommon for Shrinking’s guest stars to make repeated appearances throughout the show, so it’s entirely possible that Smulders will eventually become a regular.
Finally, Shrinking season 2 also introduced Brett Goldstein, who’s been credited as a co-creator of the show since the beginning, as Louis. He’s the man responsible for the accidental death of Jimmy’s wife, who’s seeking forgiveness from the family that he tore apart. Goldstein famously played the character of Roy Kent in Ted Lasso, one of the most successful comedies of the past few years.
Shrinking's Cast Features Many Other Notable TV Vets
Christa Miller, Michael Urie, and Kelly Bishop All Make Appearances
However, these aren’t the only comedy stars that have made appearances on Shrinking since it premiered in 2023. Many veterans of the genre have shown their face on the series, with names including Christa Miller, Ted McGinley, Michael Urie, Wendie Malick, and Kelly Bishop. Their characters have ranged from guest appearances to series regulars, cementing Shrinking as a certified who’s-who of American comedy that we’re all lucky to be watching.
The writers have really capitalized on the praise that the first season received, sticking with that clear style of comedy but introducing even more famous faces to increase the show’s reach and viewership.
Shrinking has become a huge critical hit with its second season, and much of the excitement surrounding the series comes down to its guest stars and recognizable faces. The writers have really capitalized on the praise that the first season received, sticking with that clear style of comedy but introducing even more famous faces to increase the show’s reach and viewership. It’s a very smart move that’s proved to be invaluable for the series’ success.
Shrinking Has Made The Absence Of Some Of My Favorite TV Shows Easier
It's Comforting To See My Favorite TV Stars Back
Image via Apple TV+
With the future of Ted Lasso somewhat unclear, and shows like How I Met Your Mother ending in fairly unfulfilling ways, it’s been a huge relief to see these actors working together on a show that genuinely makes the most of their talents. It was frustrating to see such comedic talents as Brett Goldstein essentially wasted on the latest season of Ted Lasso, and icons like Jason Segel not given the ending he deserved on How I Met Your Mother, but Shrinking makes all of that pain easier.
Ultimately, Shrinking can’t reverse any of the disappointment that I felt watching the final seasons of those shows, but it can certainly make their absence easier. The show has impeccable writing and captivating storytelling that rivals even the heights of Ted Lasso and New Girl, so it only makes sense that so many great actors would want to be a part of it.
In this series, a therapist grappling with personal tragedy begins to employ a radically candid approach with his clients and in his personal life. As he navigates his roles as a father, friend, and professional, his newfound method leads to unexpected consequences and self-discovery.
Release Date January 26, 2023
CastJason Segel , Luke Tennie , Michael Urie , Lukita Maxwell , Harrison Ford , Jessica Williams , Christa Miller , Ted McGinley , Heidi Gardner , Devin Kawaoka , Lilan Bowden , Kimberly Condict , Lily Rabe , Tilky Jones , Rachel Stubington , Wendie Malick , Sawyer Jones , Mike C. Nelson , Matt Knudsen , Kenajuan Bentley , Adam Foster Ballard
Image via Apple TV+
Image via Apple TV+ 
English (US) ·