Michael Urie credits his role in the Apple TV+ series Shrinking for prompting his journey into therapy. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 44-year-old actor discussed how the series has influenced his mental health awareness and personal growth.
Shrinking stars Jason Segel as Jimmy Laird, a grieving therapist who breaks the mold by candidly sharing his thoughts with clients. Urie, who portrays Jimmy’s best friend, Brian, explained that this approach to mental health resonated with him. “It was really fun,” he joked about starting therapy. “I have enjoyed going to therapy and deepening my relationship with my own mental health.”
Urie emphasized the show’s unique portrayal of mental health, stating, “The show is so, I think, careful and yet reckless with mental health. And it’s like, I think that’s the right attitude. We should all be exploring it and not be ashamed of our mental healthcare.” He noted that understanding mental health involves both scientific and emotional elements, a realization many face when engaging in therapy.
“For me, therapy has been just one part of my forever journey to learn about and care for myself,” he reflected. “It’s been frustrating, fun, and confusing—just like the show, which continues to tackle new mental health issues.” In the upcoming season, Urie reveals that Brian’s struggles with narcissism will be a focal point, adding complexity to his character. “You can’t really tell a narcissist that they’re a narcissist,” he remarked.
As he discussed the themes of Shrinking Season 2, Urie highlighted the importance of chosen family. “Chosen family is big in season 2, and I love that aspect of the show and of life,” he said, drawing from his own experiences as a queer person who has relocated from his hometown. He elaborated, “We find new chosen families for all kinds of reasons, whether due to distance or loss. This show portrays the realities of how we come together.”
Urie’s co-stars Harrison Ford, Luke Tennie, Lukita Maxwell, Christa Miller, and Ted McGinley are also returning for the new season. Apple TV+ announced that Season 2 will premiere with two episodes on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, followed by weekly releases.
The show’s logline promises a tumultuous journey as Segel’s character makes significant changes to the lives of those around him—while navigating his own transformations. Season 2 will consist of 12 episodes in total, culminating in a release on December 25, 2024.
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