Warning: There are spoilers ahead for Shrinking season 2.
In season 2 of Shrinking, Jimmy (Jason Segel) is still grappling with the profound loss of his wife, Tia (Lilan Bowden). The situation intensifies when Bretty Goldstein’s character, Louis, is unveiled as the drunk driver responsible for her tragic death. As the season comes to a close, both men find themselves at their lowest but manage to forge a reconciliation, aiding each other in their healing processes.
While the core conflict features the tumultuous relationship between Jimmy and Louis, the ensemble cast faces their own challenges. Paul (Harrison Ford) experiences worsening Parkinson’s symptoms, Liz (Christa Miller) embarks on a journey of self-discovery, and Gaby (Jessica Williams) explores her romantic involvement with Derrick (Damon Wayans Jr.). With the confirmation of Shrinking season 3, numerous unresolved narratives and character arcs await development in the Apple TV+ series.
8 Cobie Smulders Returns in Shrinking Season 3
She Reunites with Her How I Met Your Mother Co-Star in Shrinking Season 2
In a delightful twist, Shrinking season 2 marks a How I Met Your Mother reunion with Cobie Smulders, who portrays Sofi. In this storyline, Jimmy purchases a car from her for his daughter, Alice’s (Lukita Maxwell) birthday. Unlike their previous television roles, where they shared a platonic bond, there’s undeniable chemistry between Jimmy and Sofi, fostering both playful banter and deep conversations.
As Jimmy navigates his newfound emotional stability following his interactions with Alice and Louis, it’s likely that Sofi will return in season 3, enabling the two to explore a potential romantic relationship. While Sofi can’t replace Tia, their connection could provide Jimmy a chance to open his heart once more, fostering a continuation of their dynamic and addressing any complications it might introduce to his relationship with Alice, who may struggle with her father moving on.
7 Paul Doesn’t Die
Season 2 Seemed to be Setting Up His Death
In this season, Paul’s condition has escalated, leading viewers to suspect that his demise could be on the horizon for season 3. His neurologist, Dr. Sykes (Amy Rosoff), has warned that he has reached the maximum safe dosage of his medication, hinting at potential critical turning points. The series has adeptly navigated the crossroads of humor and drama, and while Paul’s death would certainly add gravity, it risks unsettling the balance established throughout the show.
Instead, the narrative could emphasize how individuals with Parkinson’s disease can lead fulfilling lives despite significant challenges. By focusing on Paul’s life as he adapts to evolving circumstances, the storyline can maintain pivotal emotional intrigue while highlighting the importance of resilience and community support.
6 Louis Returns and Becomes Friends with More Shrinking Characters
He Still Has Not Met Many of the Main Characters
With the tension between Jimmy and Louis resolved, it’s expected that Louis will have an expanded role in season 3, forming friendships with other central characters. Currently, he shares ties predominantly with Alice and Brian (Michael Urie); however, it would enhance the storyline to see Louis integrate into the broader circle of characters including Gaby, Sean (Luke Tennie), Liz, and Derrick, each bringing their own unique interactions.
Brett Goldstein, who not only portrays Louis but also serves as a co-creator, writer, and producer for Shrinking, has demonstrated his talent in this multifaceted role. Given the emotional struggles Louis faces, developing a supportive community will play a crucial role in his ongoing journey of recovery and growth, solidifying his position in the series.
5 Gaby and Derrick’s Relationship Becomes More Serious
Their Relationship Hit Some Roadblocks in Season 2
The chemistry between Gaby and Derrick is palpable and hints at a promising partnership. Nevertheless, their budding romance faced interruptions due to other characters’ crises and Gaby’s self-sabotaging behavior. With Gaby actively addressing her issues and reconciling with Derrick towards season 2’s finale, there’s optimism for their relationship to deepen in the upcoming season.
As a nurturing character, Gaby often prioritizes the well-being of others over her own, but building her relationship with Derrick can serve to remind her of her own needs. Their interactions are already weaving into more family dynamics; however, expanding the portrayal of Derrick’s family in season 3 could provide further depth to their relationship.
4 There Should be More Tia Flashbacks
Season 2, Episode 8 introduces compelling flashbacks of Tia, showcasing her relationships with Gaby and Brian independent of Jimmy and Alice’s perspectives. This marks a significant step in elucidating Tia’s character beyond merely being a mother and wife. More flashbacks can further enrich her narrative, offering viewers a more holistic understanding of her life.
Highlighting Tia’s friendships and personal experiences would serve as a powerful tribute and create more emotional resonance within the series. Integrating additional Tia flashbacks in season 3 would deepen audience engagement while ensuring her character is not reduced to a plot device in the grieving process of others.
3 Alice Goes to College
Alice’s maturation is evident as she approaches a new milestone – college. Having established her independence through various experiences, including reconciliation with Louis and navigating teenage hurdles, her transition represents a significant emotional shift in her relationship with Jimmy.
The growth she has shown, aided by Paul’s guidance and her father’s support, prepares her for the challenges that lie ahead. This chapter will undeniably be bittersweet, as it underscores the natural evolution of their father-daughter relationship while highlighting the importance of familial support in her journey.
2 Brian Loves Being a Father Despite the Challenges
He Will Need to Learn That Not Everything Can Go His Way
Throughout season 2, Brian’s journey has encapsulated the joys and challenges of fatherhood as he and his partner Charlie (Devin Kawaoka) prepare to adopt a baby. The couple’s commitment to parenting is bolstered by their supportive network of friends, alleviating some of the pressures that can accompany the transition to parenthood.
Brian, whose mantra has often been “everything goes my way,”must learn that parenting often diverges from this notion, bringing forth unexpected moments and challenges.
1 Jimmy Finds Peace
Jimmy Needs to Find Something Other than Helping His Patients
Though the passing of his beloved Tia is a wound that will never fully heal, Jimmy may still uncover a path toward inner peace as the show progresses. He must determine what fulfillment looks like for him, as his previous attempts at aiding patients have proven to be just temporary remedies for underlying grief. With potential new romantic opportunities, Jimmy might find genuine companionship with Sofi, paving the way for a hopeful future.
Ultimately, Jimmy’s journey toward peace will likely hinge on a blend of personal and professional elements, including the evolving storyline surrounding Paul’s condition, his patients’ developments, and the dynamic with Alice as she embarks on her new journey.