Shrinking Season 3 Delivers a Bittersweet, Heartfelt Farewell

Apple TV’s Shrinking has quietly become a favourite among viewers, thanks to its sharp writing and a cast that feels like old mates. With Bill Lawrence, Brett Goldstein, and Jason Segel at the helm, the third season keeps the same easy charm and dry humour that’s made the show a standout.

This time around, the story zeroes in on change. Jimmy, played by Segel, is facing a new chapter as his daughter Alice gets ready to head off to uni. Meanwhile, Paul, his boss and a bit of a father figure, is coming to terms with Parkinson’s. The show’s always been about grief and moving on, but this season leans into acceptance, making it the most touching yet.

Sentimentality and Pacing in the Final Stretch

There’s no getting around it—this season lays the sentiment on thick, especially in the dialogue. The characters, all therapists, are never shy about saying exactly what’s on their minds, sometimes to the point where it feels a bit staged. It’s a style that’s worked for the show, but here it occasionally tips over into being a bit much.

With talk that this is the last hurrah—

Lawrence’s claims that the show was envisioned with a three-season arc

—the pacing sometimes stumbles. Like many final seasons, there’s a rush to tie up every loose end, and not every storyline gets the attention it deserves. Still, the show manages to land the ending most punters will be hoping for, even if a few threads are left dangling.

Cast Chemistry and New Faces

Despite a few wobbles, the ensemble remains as likeable as ever. Segel, Jessica Williams, Michael Urie, Christa Miller, and Ted McGinley keep things lively, and Harrison Ford’s performance only gets better as his character deepens. Luke Tennie and Lukita Maxwell have really settled into their roles, bringing a lot of heart to the table.

This season also brings in some fresh faces. Michael J. Fox pops up in a role that hits close to home, given his own Parkinson’s diagnosis. His scenes are brief, likely for health reasons, but they pack a punch. Jeff Daniels turns up later in the season, though his understated approach might leave some wanting a bit more energy.

Standout Performances and Emotional Weight

Sherry Cola is the real surprise this time, taking on a dramatic role as one of Jessica Williams’ character’s new patients. Known mostly for comedy, she steps up with a performance that’s both confident and moving, showing she’s got more range than most would expect.

As with previous seasons, the show’s tone has grown more sentimental, not unlike Bill Lawrence’s other Apple TV hit, Ted Lasso. It’s a bit cheesier, sure, but it’s hard not to get swept up in the warmth and humour. The big question now is whether the creators will stick the landing and let the show bow out gracefully, or if they’ll be tempted to bring it back for another round.

The third season of Shrinking is available to stream on Apple TV from 28 January, with new episodes dropping each Wednesday. All eleven episodes were reviewed.