Jason Segel Reflects on Working with Harrison Ford in ‘Shrinking’

Actor Jason Segel recently shared insights about his experience working alongside Hollywood veteran Harrison Ford in the popular television dramedy, ‘Shrinking‘. According to Segel, Ford’s presence on set tends to ease his concerns about his own performance. “If you have a complicated brain that tells you something is wrong or you didn’t get it quite right, and then suddenly, you’re standing across from Harrison Ford doing acting, it’s impossible to feel like it didn’t all work out,” Segel mentioned in a preview clip.

The Emmy-nominated show, which follows the story of a therapist, Jimmy (played by Segel), navigating through personal grief, recently debuted its second season on Apple TV+. Ford portrays Paul, Jimmy’s curmudgeonly coworker, whose interactions on and off the screen have mirrored each other in amusement and challenge. “I desperately want his approval, and he wants to humiliate me,” Segel humorously noted, recounting a specific on-set incident during a canoe scene where Ford playfully attempted to capsize him.

Shrinking, which premiered the first two episodes of its second season on October 16, 2024, has already secured a renewal for a third series. The show’s creators include Segel, Bill Lawrence, and Brett Goldstein, with the latter two being renowned for their work on another Apple TV+ hit, ‘Ted Lasso‘. Besides Segel and Ford, the series features talents like Jessica Williams, Michael Urie, Christa Miller, and Luke Tennie, among others.

The cast ensemble has been a critical part of the series’ success, with Jessica Williams starring as Gaby, a colleague, and Michael Urie playing Brian, Jimmy’s best friend. Segel’s character, Jimmy, also portrays familial dynamics with his daughter Alice, played by Lukita Maxwell. Segel’s reflections highlight an amusing and grounding dynamic with Ford, describing it as reminiscent of childhood scenarios of teasing amongst friends, as likened by late-night host Stephen Colbert.

The show’s blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling, alongside the performances of its distinguished cast, continues to capture audiences, contributing to its acclaim and anticipation for its forthcoming seasons.