As a fan of Shrinking and someone who has watched every episode with bated breath, I must say that the second season is truly exceptional. The characters are more complex, the relationships are more nuanced, and the writing is simply superb.
[This story contains spoilers from the first half of Shrinking season two.]
So far, the initial portion of season two for the show “Shrinking” has taken quite a few of its characters on an exhilarating ride.
Brett Goldstein’s character Louis, the person responsible for the tragic loss of Jimmy’s wife and Alice’s mom, causes a significant disruption in their father-daughter bond. Gaby finds herself taking on the responsibility of caring for her mother and ends her casual relationship with Jimmy. Simultaneously, Liz appears to be unraveling emotionally, yet she seems to be overlooked by those around her.
However, things aren’t entirely grim. Brian (Michael Urie) and Charlie (Devin Kawaoka) are on their way to parenthood with a new baby adoption. Sean (Luke Tennie) is showing significant improvement in his mental health journey, albeit with some occasional setbacks. Additionally, Gaby’s romantic prospects may brighten as Derek (Ted McGinley) introduces her to a potential new love interest, Damon Wayans Jr.’s character, affectionately known as Derrick #2.
For Williams, delving into a romantic connection with Derrick Wayans was intriguing because Gaby is now in a more stable state compared to her initial relationship with Jimmy in the second season of Shrinking. However, she’s not as deeply invested. The Emmy nominee explains this to The Hollywood Reporter, stating, “We get to observe Gaby introspect, and we see how she can be harmful, the methods she employs, and the ways one can work through it, or choose not to deal with it. Relationships, especially romantic ones, make you face parts of yourself that you wouldn’t have to if you were alone.
As a gamer, I totally immersed myself in exploring the complex dynamics of Gaby’s family, particularly her relationships with her mother (played by Johnson) and her sister (portrayed by Courtney Taylor). It was an engaging experience that added depth to my character portrayal as Gaby in Love Life.
She finds these actresses truly exceptional, and there’s a certain charm in learning about Gaby’s origins,” she notes. “The narrative on handling adulthood and aging, particularly the challenge of caring for one’s parents as they age, is a universal experience that many of us may face later in life.
In the conversation with THR that follows, Williams discusses her interactions with Segel and Ford on set, as well as her bond with McGinley’s Derek and Miller’s Liz, and her eagerness to work alongside Goldstein in season 3.
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How did it feel stepping back into the character of Gaby, following your Emmy nomination from the initial season?
It was an incredibly exciting moment when the nominations were announced, around midnight, and our union, SAG, decided to go on strike. This was a very unusual experience, but I felt it was important to stand in solidarity with my union. I had only a day to enjoy the celebration – perhaps 12 to 15 hours like everyone else – before we were called to strike. The strike delayed our filming of season two by around six months as we were just weeks away from starting production. This unexpected break gave me ample time to reflect on my character, which I had not previously reprised in any significant role. I had also been feeling a great deal of pressure, especially after receiving the nomination, worrying if I could recreate the performance or if it was a one-time feat. This fear was the most prominent concern for me: “What if it was a fluke? What if I don’t remember? What if I can’t do that again?” This was my primary worry as I had never returned to a character before, having primarily worked on limited series or shows like The Daily Show, each with their unique challenges.
And then once you got back onto set and were ready to start up again, did it all come back?
Absolutely, once I put on the costume and stepped onto the set, it felt like returning to the office, a familiar sensation. The role quickly felt natural again, but I must admit, I was quite anxious and messaged my co-stars, “Dude, I’m not sure if I can pull this off. Am I going to succeed again? Because people really appreciate Gaby.” However, I adjusted to it swiftly. Then, some unusual incidents occurred that made me more certain of who Gaby truly is.
In the initial season, it’s worth mentioning that Bill [Lawrence], Brett [Goldstein], and Jason [Segel], the show creators, had a clear intention: they wanted to mold the character of Gaby specifically to the actress who would play her. Thus, the first season was primarily a period of exploration and discovery for us all. The second season, however, saw me questioning my abilities, wondering if I was inept or insincere. But then I realized, we had crafted this character in the first season, and now we were more familiar with her nuances. So, in the second season, we got to delve deeper into those characteristics, as we had put in a lot of effort understanding them during the first season.
You and Jason Segel have an incredible dynamic onscreen. How did you create that?
In recollection, our first encounter was a Zoom session, where I met Jason, Bill, and Neil Goldman – our head writer. This meeting lasted approximately an hour, during which we primarily discussed basketball as we both reside on the East side. After the call, I found myself wishing them luck, appreciating these individuals, and hoping for the show’s success. Despite our apparent differences, there was a strange connection between us from the start – an understanding that made me feel, “Ah, you’re peculiar, and so am I, but I understand.” Consequently, working with Jason has been effortless; it’s like he makes my job enjoyable as I simply sit back, unwind, and admire his craftsmanship. Sharing the screen with him is one of the aspects I cherish most about this job.
In addition to our strong rapport, you’ll notice that this season, your characters share a deeper bond. Harrison Ford relies heavily on Gaby in many aspects of his life, and she’s the one encouraging him to work. Could you share some insights about working closely with him during this season?
I was thrilled to join this show without knowing they’d managed to secure Harrison Ford for a role. Initially, I looked forward to collaborating with Bill, Jason, and Brett. When I learned that Harrison had agreed to the project, I thought it must be a joke – a comedy, a half-hour comedy? Incredible! But as it became clear, I was taken aback, saying to myself, “This is unbelievable!” However, I find it fascinating how Gaby and Paul’s (Ford) relationship has evolved, with both characters harboring a deep respect for him. His professionalism is commendable, and there are qualities that Gaby admires and sees him as something of a mentor or distant father figure. In turn, he seems to view her as a distant daughter figure, and I believe the same dynamic exists between Paul and Jimmy, making it a pleasure to work with Harrison Ford in this context.
Gaby has no qualms expressing her thoughts freely, unless it’s about her mom or intimate relationships. This makes for engaging conversations, such as discussing ‘safe dick’ with Harrison Ford. The writers seem to relish this dynamic. I never imagined that amidst Harrison’s illustrious career, I’d be joking about safe dick with him. In the current season, there’s a scene where he playfully suggests pulling his pants down and slapping his own butt. It’s quite amusing to witness such an iconic figure portraying this unconventional character. I feel incredibly fortunate to have reached this stage in my career and work with him in this capacity. It’s a dream come true. I believe I made all the right choices to arrive at this point.
At the start of the season, Gabby appears conflicted about her emotions towards Jimmy, as their connection seems casual for him, yet not for her. What might have led them to reach this situation eventually?
It’s common for individuals going through grief to find themselves in complicated situations with those close to the deceased, such as friends or former partners. There’s often a deep void left behind, shared pain, and a connection that was once significant. In an attempt to cope, these individuals might gravitate towards each other, potentially engaging in relationships like ‘friends with benefits’. This behavior can be seen as a form of grieving, where one is trying to fill the void or seek comfort in familiarity. For sensitive individuals like Gaby, who value emotional connections, this arrangement could prove challenging due to her inability to separate sex from emotions. Throughout this season, both characters will explore their feelings for others, which can be an enlightening and beneficial experience for them, although it may not adhere to conventional norms.
In addition to her lovely bond with Liz, Gaby’s relationship expands to include Derek this season. I’m curious, how did acting in those scenes alongside Christa Miller and Ted McGinley feel?
I adore Christa and Ted. While Christa is wed to Bill Lawrence, she’s not only an exceptional actress but also Bill’s wife. Bill finds our unlikely duo amusing, so he’s quite captivated by it. He frequently orchestrates their encounters, which I find delightful. It’s a hoot that our characters are written in such a way, allowing us to share this absurd dynamic. Moreover, Ted McGinley is an exceptional actor. On set, he’s like the mischievous kid sitting at the back of the classroom, always giggling and causing trouble. Yet, he has this unique charm that makes him enjoyable to be around. He possesses a hidden talent for acting, but can also spontaneously shout, “Eat a dick, Pam!” – a feeling reminiscent of being back in the classroom. Thus, he’s a pleasure to collaborate with. I’m thrilled that he’s a series regular now.
It’s amusing since whenever someone asks me about the TV show, I could argue that every character is crucial to it. It feels like debating which among Alice or Derek truly embodies the core of the show. The versatility in this discussion is delightful. I also appreciate having friends who are couples. There are a couple of them with whom I share a strong bond, and we enjoy spending time together. Sometimes I hang out with one member, while on other occasions I spend time with the other. It’s like modern friendships have taken an interesting turn in 2024.
What’s your take on the touching scene between Derek and Gaby, where he reminds her that she often puts others first and encourages her to allow someone to care for her in return? What makes this message significant coming from him?
It’s clear that Derek knows more about Jimmy and Gaby’s relationship than even they do, as he has a unique vantage point from his balcony. He overhears everything, often offering unsolicited advice like “Dude, you blew it” when necessary. Given his extensive knowledge of their relationship, it’s heartwarming to see him supporting Gaby. Sometimes, the best advice comes from unexpected sources, and that seems to be the case with Derek this season. He offers insightful advice not only to Brian Urie but also to Harrison Ford. In truth, Derek could make a great therapist for anyone on the show, providing sage advice when it’s needed most.
Except for, it seems, Liz, who he struggles to be a therapist for.
Absolutely, that’s an accurate summary. Here’s another way to put it:
Derek brings Gaby to meet her own character’s counterpart, Derrick, portrayed by Damon Wayans Jr. I’d be delighted to discuss our on-screen interactions and offer a sneak peek into what the future holds for Gaby and Derrick in the second half of the season.
In this relationship, Derrick #2 is considered healthy both emotionally and physically, yet Gaby seems to find herself as the source of some toxicity, despite being healthier than her partners in the past. This raises a question: What if the red flags are within oneself? Engaging with Gaby allows us to observe her toxic behaviors and understand how they manifest, as well as strategies for overcoming them or choosing not to address them. Falling in love and being attracted to someone serves as an intense mirror, revealing aspects of ourselves that we might not confront when alone. Pets provide some reflection, but they are not conscious beings like humans. Therefore, the person we choose to date or fall for forces us to confront our inner self more profoundly than solitude would allow.
This season offers a deeper look at the dynamics between Gaby and her family members. How did you find delving into that aspect?
Vernee Johnson and Courtney Taylor portray my mother and sister in the show, respectively. They are both exceptional actresses, and it’s fascinating to trace Gaby’s origins through their performances. The storyline revolving around adulthood, aging, and caring for one’s parents is a universal experience that many of us will face eventually (if our parents remain alive). This aspect of the show, where we follow Gaby as she navigates caring for someone she loves, is both relatable and intriguing. It’s a common situation, making it all the more special. The actors are simply phenomenal, with their humor adding to the delightful experience of working with them. I hope the audience can feel the joy we share on set, as our crew, writers, and directors are all top-notch. The atmosphere is always uplifting, and we often delve into therapy discussions, which adds a layer of depth to our lighthearted approach. So, here’s hoping the show reflects this!
In this scene, we witness Liz confronting Gabby for insisting Liz’s sister remain their mother’s caregiver due to her past struggles with addiction. Can you discuss this particular moment?
In simpler terms, Gaby often struggles with codependency and martyrdom. Instead of dealing with her own issues, she frequently gets involved in other people’s problems. I believe it’s essential for a good friend or relationship to offer constructive criticism, and that includes pointing out blind spots if you’re open to it. This feedback should ideally come from a place of love and concern, such as “Hey, I’ve noticed a pattern in your behavior.
The bond between Gaby and Liz is truly heartwarming. They love each other deeply, which allows them to overlook occasional insensitive remarks, understanding that they might not be intended harshly. It’s more like a person who cares for you, reflecting your traits, rather than someone who doesn’t care or isn’t affectionate, saying things just to be hurtful. This unique dynamic on the show is quite remarkable because Gaby often criticizes others, yet seldom does she receive constructive feedback herself. It’s refreshing to see her called out, adding a touch of authenticity to their relationship.
Not only did we observe Jimmy prioritize his friendship with Gaby over other matters, without any hidden intentions related to intimacy (although he accidentally wore his undergarments intended for that purpose). What could possibly be the reason behind Jimmy’s actions being so supportive towards Gaby in this instance?
In today’s context, it’s crucial to portray friendships authentically on screen, especially between white men and Black women, devoid of any romantic or selfish intentions. Such depictions reflect modern relationships and emphasize selfless acts of support. I appreciate it when my friends stand by me, just as I do for them. This extends to their partners too; I enjoy being there for them in their relationships, offering them love and support. In essence, genuine friendships in the 21st century are about giving without expecting anything in return – that’s what true love is all about. It’s crucial for this friendship to help heal the wounds they both inflicted on each other.
When Bill mentioned that this season is centered on forgiveness, I was intrigued by the idea. Particularly when I learned that Brett Goldstein’s character, Louis, would be making an appearance. What were your initial thoughts upon discovering his character would be part of the script?
As a dedicated fan, I couldn’t contain my anticipation for this season. Particularly, I was eager to witness Lukita Maxwell’s portrayal of Alice and Jason Segel’s performance. Unfortunately, Segel’s character seemed to have left a deep void in their family dynamic.
Some of the standout moments this season involve Brett, as his unique talent seems to enhance anything he’s involved in, whether it’s a guest appearance or a live performance. He effortlessly elevates everything around him, making us think, “Wow, you really take things to a new level.” I’m eagerly anticipating exploring Gaby’s reaction to meeting someone who has taken the life of her closest friend.
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Shrinking season two releases new episodes Wednesdays on Apple TV+.
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2024-11-15 18:56