Jason Segel highlights comedic dance scene partnership with Jessica Williams as the dynamic therapy duo return for season 3 of ‘Shrinking’ on Apple TV+, with promises of their most unpredictable season yet. Following the cast‘s reflections after an intense group shoot in Altadena, Segel and Williams discussed both the evolution of their creative collaboration and the new narrative directions the series is set to explore.
Season 3 Begins With Ensemble Energy and Restored Locations
After an all-night shoot for the upcoming third season of ‘Shrinking’, Jason Segel and Jessica Williams expressed excitement over finally bringing the entire cast together on restored exterior locations. Their anticipation was heightened by returning to settings previously lost to the Eaton fire, restoring a sense of continuity and nostalgia for the team.
“It was a really fun night. It’s always fun when they have the whole cast together,”
—Jason Segel, Actor
“We finally get back outside. A lot of our exteriors were taken down in the Eaton fire in Altadena, so we got to finally go back to our locations, and that was a real blessing too.”
—Jason Segel, Actor
This group energy marks a significant point for the show‘s trajectory. The interplay between therapists Jimmy (Segel) and Gaby (Williams) remains central, but the ensemble cast—including Harrison Ford, Michael Urie, Christa Miller, Ted McGinley, and Luke Tennie—takes on expanded narrative roles. These developments push the series into deeper emotional and comedic waters.
Character Evolutions and Shifting Relationships
Following significant changes in the character arcs, Gaby, portrayed by Jessica Williams, begins to move on from her connection with Jimmy, exploring new relationships and facing familial challenges. The season also follows Dr. Paul (Harrison Ford) and his journey diagnosing and living with Parkinson’s disease, including the nuances of his growing relationship with his physician, Julie (Wendie Malick).
Meanwhile, Jimmy’s daughter Alice (Lukita Maxwell) forms an unexpected bond with Louis (Brett Goldstein), the driver responsible for her mother’s tragic death, much to Jimmy’s distress. These intersecting emotional journeys set the stage for heightened drama and opportunities for the full cast.
Award Recognition and Cast Reflections
Since its first season, ‘Shrinking’ has garnered critical acclaim, including Emmy nominations for both Segel and Williams. The show also secured Golden Globe and SAG nominations, with ensemble and individual recognition for talents like Harrison Ford. On the set, Segel and Williams acknowledge a shift in tone and comfort from the first to the second season, feeling both more confident in their characters and the series as a whole.
Jessica Williams noted the evolution as audiences began connecting deeply with the series and the cast further understood their roles and story arcs. Segel described the creative process as a transition from establishing the central A-story in season one, to allowing each actor to inhabit a more fully developed interior life by the second season, making the performance landscape richer and more collaborative for everyone involved.
Themes of Reflection, Release, and Diversity of Performance
The closing scenes of season two saw profound exchanges between Jimmy and Louis at a train station, highlighting the show’s ongoing exploration of shared pain, healing, and empathic resonance among its characters. Segel emphasized that each character is a reflection of the others, and that Jimmy’s efforts to save Louis mirrored his journey to save himself from lingering grief and resentment. He described the experience of acting alongside Brett Goldstein as fulfilling and deeply rooted in mutual respect.
Emotional Depth in Harrison Ford’s Performance
A standout moment for the cast occurred during a Thanksgiving episode, with Harrison Ford’s character Paul delivering a heartfelt expression of gratitude, moving the entire room to tears:
“I don’t know how much longer I get to do this job, but doing it with all of you has been an honor.”
—Harrison Ford, Actor (quoted by Jason Segel)
This moment left a lasting impact on the cast, particularly Jessica Williams, who described the privilege of witnessing Ford’s emotional authenticity. The cast responded with real tears, and Williams recalled a silent, emotional moment shared with Ford on set, marking it as a uniquely personal and profound experience for the ensemble.
Jessica Williams on Comedy and Range in ‘Shrinking’
Williams described her role as Gaby as one that demands both comedic agility and emotional depth, crediting the writers and her fellow actors for providing the creative space to fully inhabit such a multidimensional character. She cited the freedom each actor brings, creating a working environment where everyone’s distinct performance strengthens the group dynamic and opens up creative possibilities.
The Art of Comedic Dance Scenes and On-Screen Partnership
The partnership between Jason Segel and Jessica Williams, as explored in their comedic dance scene, epitomizes the series’ approach to combining sharp dialogue with improvisational chemistry. Segel explained that performing with Williams inspires him to abandon rehearsed plans and focus on in-the-moment responsiveness, which he views as the essence of compelling acting.
Segel shared,
“What’s really exciting about acting with Jess is that we do these scenes like where we wake up after sleeping together in season 1, and it’s a high-energy comedic scene, and she and I are both like, we’re dancing. That is a dance scene — it’s a comedic dance scene.”
He appreciates the variety, from energetic comedy to still, poignant exchanges, crediting their partnership as the core reason for authentically capturing each moment.
Exploring Romantic Chemistries and Character Dynamics
With Gaby’s character moving on with Derek, played by Damon Wayans Jr., and Jimmy’s emotional journey still ongoing, questions have been raised about potential reunions or new narratives involving Cobie Smulders’ character and Jimmy. Segel refrains from detailed spoilers but hints at the broader themes guiding each season. The key idea for season three, according to Segel, is “moving forward.”
Comparatively, Segel seeks to avoid typical sitcom tropes, preferring that Jimmy’s relationships reflect genuine emotional maturity and complexity rather than clichéd awkwardness.
“His thing is, this woman deserves better than me,”
Segel said, indicating the kind of internal conflict that shapes Jimmy’s interactions on the show.
Behind the Scenes: Writing, Improvisation, and Iconic Lines
The interplay between written material and improvisation is a hallmark of the series, with Segel and Williams both highlighting how their evolving familiarity with the characters has led writers to craft dialogue specifically tailored to their comedic voices. Not all of the most memorable lines are scripted, as Williams acknowledged the freedom to contribute lines and bits that push the boundary of what’s been done on the show before.
“This might be the most lewd thing we’ve ever had on the show.”
—Bill Lawrence, Co-Creator (as recalled by Jessica Williams)
“He said it might be the dirtiest thing that’s ever been put on television!”
—Jason Segel, Actor
This blend of scripted and improvisational humor allows ‘Shrinking’ to deliver both broad laughs and nuanced, character-driven comedy, maintaining its status as a standout ensemble series.
Inside the Minds of Jason Segel and Jessica Williams
The actors delved into their creative processes, with Segel explaining how he draws on past experiences and literary inspirations for character names and attitudes. References to high school theater and repeated character naming conventions are part of his trademark, adding an extra layer to his roles in both performance and writing. Williams, meanwhile, brings her own take to every scene, finding ways to build the character of Gaby authentically, one day at a time, appreciating the distinctive chemistry with each scene partner.
Season Three Promises Wild Twists and Unfiltered Comedy
Teasing the direction of the new season, Segel suggested that both returning cast and fresh comedic set pieces would push boundaries even further. The creators are emphasizing not only new forms of humor but also emotional storylines that give every actor an opportunity to shine. With the cast and creators reunited after logistical setbacks like fire-damaged sets, the group is poised for both reunion and reinvention in their performances.
‘Shrinking’ and Recognition in the Comedy Landscape
Alongside its narrative achievements, ‘Shrinking’ has received considerable notice during awards season. Emmy pundits have named Jason Segel, Jessica Williams, Harrison Ford, Michael Urie, and the rest of the principal cast among projected nominees, with the show recognized for its performances and writing. Kristen Baldwin has pointed out the show’s nomination potential for Lead and Supporting Actor and Actress in a Comedy, signaling strong industry recognition.
These acknowledgments underscore the impact the series has had since its debut, resonating with audiences and critics for its unique blend of humor and heart.
The Road Ahead: What to Expect as ‘Shrinking’ Returns
With its emphasis on healing, forgiveness, and now moving forward, ‘Shrinking’ sets the stage for a season marked by bold comedic scenes, deeper emotional exploration, and an ongoing celebration of ensemble performance. Jason Segel, Jessica Williams, and the rest of the cast look to expand on the show’s signature mix of laughter and vulnerability, promising audiences yet another season of inventive storytelling and memorable moments both in and out of the therapy office.
