Apple TV’s Shrinking Is a Groundbreaking Series on Grief & Mental Health

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Following the success of the acclaimed comedy Ted Lasso, the team behind it – Bill Lawrence and Brett Goldstein – have created a new series for Apple TV+. Starring Jason Segel (known from How I Met Your Mother), along with Harrison Ford, Jessica Williams, and Michael Urie, the show centers around a group of therapists, their friends, and families as they support each other through life’s challenges.

Season 3 of the show has been well-received, earning a 92% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes. It’s also received nine Primetime Emmy nominations, including recognition for its casting and as an outstanding comedy. The talented cast – including Jason Segel, Harrison Ford, Williams, and Urie – have all been nominated for their performances. The show consistently features impressive guest stars, with recent appearances by Damon Wayans Jr., Cobie Smulders, Brett Goldstein, Michael J. Fox, and Jeff Daniels.

Shrinking Approaches Grief and Mental Health Help Better Than Any Other Comedy

Comedy shows often struggle when dealing with serious issues like grief or mental health after a loss. They tend to either portray these topics unrealistically or prioritize humor over sensitivity, making it hard for viewers to truly connect with the characters and their experiences. A successful show needs to balance comedic moments with genuine emotional depth to respectfully address these difficult subjects and resonate with the audience.

I’ve been really drawn into the story of Jimmy, played by Jason Segel. He’s going through something incredibly tough – his wife was suddenly taken from him by a drunk driver. At first, he tries to cope by making jokes and being funny, but the show really digs into his journey of healing and dealing with his grief. It’s not just about the humor; it’s about watching him actually process everything.

I really appreciate seeing stories that don’t shy away from the tough stuff, like when someone you care about passes away. It feels more real when they show the messy process of grieving – the ups and downs, and even the unhealthy ways people sometimes try to cope. It’s so much better than just using humor to quickly wrap things up and pretend everything’s okay. Seeing the full journey feels much more honest and relatable.

As a movie lover, I really appreciate how Shrinking handles therapy. It doesn’t portray seeking help as anything shameful – it’s simply a way to improve your life. So many shows, especially those with traditionally ‘tough’ male characters like in The Sopranos, often suggest that going to therapy is a sign of weakness. And honestly, that’s really harmful. Forbes actually reported that almost half of Americans – 47% – still believe therapy means you’re somehow ‘broken.’ Shrinking gets it right by showing not only how incredibly beneficial addressing mental health with a professional can be, but also how much stronger and more resilient people can become afterward.

Shrinking Shows That Empathy and the Acceptance of Help Are Good for Everyone

The show Shrinking excels at exploring forgiveness and empathy in surprising ways, even towards people who seem undeserving. In season two, we learn that Louis was responsible for the accidental death of Jimmy’s wife, and his life falls apart as a result, leading him to consider suicide. A central storyline focuses on Jimmy and his daughter, Alice, connecting with Louis, forgiving him for his actions, and helping him rebuild his life.

The show also explores the aftermath from the perspective of Jimmy and his wife’s friend, revealing his emotional response to the events. It beautifully demonstrates that everyone grieves and heals differently, even when facing the same tragedy. While Jimmy and Alice were able to forgive, their friend isn’t, and that’s perfectly valid – there’s no right or wrong way to cope.

A common storyline often features tough characters who refuse to ask for help, believing it shows weakness. Shrinking subverts this trope. While the main character initially embodies this trait, he’s later diagnosed with Parkinson’s, forcing him to depend on his friends and loved ones for even simple things.

He’s understandably hesitant, but consistent conversations and unwavering support are helping him understand he’s not facing these challenges alone. Seeing him express his gratitude after finally opening up is rewarding enough, and it’s a powerful reminder that everyone needs connection and support.

Shrinking is available to stream on AppleTV.

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2026-02-10 04:36