On February 1, 2026, Jason Segel expressed his excitement about working alongside his idol, Michael J. Fox, in the third season of the Apple TV+ series Shrinking. The 46-year-old actor shared that teaming up with Fox, whom he has long admired, was a special experience that deeply resonated with him as he has modeled his career after Fox’s blend of television and film roles.
Segel Reflects on Fox’s Influence in His Career
Jason Segel openly acknowledged the impact Michael J. Fox has had on his journey in Hollywood. He told ScreenRant,
“When we heard that Michael J. Fox was going to appear on this show, I think we all felt really honoured. He’s an idol of mine.”
Segel recalled the challenges he faced about twenty years ago while juggling TV work with movie ambitions, often finding inspiration in Fox’s success.
There was a period when me and my crew – it’s 20 years ago now for me – but when I was doing a TV show and trying to make movies at the same time, and it’s scary and exhausting, and we would literally say to each other, ‘Hey, Michael J. Fox did it.’ We would say it all the time.
— Jason Segel
During their time together on Shrinking, Segel found an opportunity to personally convey his admiration to Fox. He recalled,
“I got to say like, ‘Hey, I want you to know, in a period when I was trying to figure out what I could do with this job, you were like our true north.’”
It was really cool to get to say that to him.
— Jason Segel
Harrison Ford’s Presence Adds Star Power to the Series
Joining Michael J. Fox and Jason Segel in Shrinking is Hollywood legend Harrison Ford, whose appearance left Segel impressed by the actor’s presence at 83 years old. While doing ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement), Segel was struck by Ford’s enduring charisma.
I was just doing a little bit of ADR and Harrison Ford came on screen. I was like, ‘Oh, my God, he’s so handsome.’ (Laughs)
— Jason Segel
It’s really insane to me that at 83 years old, if I was in a bar and it was between me and Harrison, I would still choose Harrison. The guy is so amazing, and so is the vulnerability with which he explores getting older.
— Jason Segel
Behind the Scenes: Harrison Ford’s On-Set Demeanor
Michael Urie, who also stars in Shrinking, recently shared insights into Harrison Ford’s public persona, emphasizing that the actor’s reputed cantankerousness is simply an act. Speaking to People magazine, Urie painted a different picture of Ford on the set of the series.
I know he seems cantankerous on the red carpet, [but] that’s just an act. He’s actually very sweet, and he loves being there.
— Michael Urie
Urie described Ford as playful and someone who genuinely enjoys the experience of working, offering a warm contrast to the public image Ford sometimes projects.
Significance of These Collaborations in Shrinking
Jason Segel’s chance to work closely with long-time idol Michael J. Fox highlights a significant moment in his career, symbolizing the passing of inspiration between acting generations. The addition of Harrison Ford enriches the series, bringing not only star power but also a nuanced portrayal of aging in Hollywood. Together, these collaborations promise to deepen Shrinking’s appeal and demonstrate how respected actors continue to shape television narratives in meaningful ways.
