Harrison Ford had one important question after reading the pilot script for Apple TV+'s 'Shrinking': whether his character would appear more in the second episode. Co-creator Bill Lawrence assured him he could be in as many scenes as he wanted, leading to Ford's involvement in the series. The acclaimed actor was drawn to the script's blend of pathos and comedy, earning him an Emmy nomination in 2025.
The pilot script for Apple TV+'s bittersweet dramedy 'Shrinking' initially featured limited screen time for Harrison Ford's character, Dr. Paul Rhoades, a curmudgeonly surrogate father figure to Jason Segel's therapist Jimmy Laird. When Ford inquired about his role in the subsequent episode, Lawrence, known for 'Scrubs' and 'Ted Lasso,' responded affirmatively, emphasizing flexibility in Ford's participation.
Lawrence did not expect Ford, an icon from 'Star Wars' and 'Indiana Jones,' to accept the part of a supporting character in a non-traditional sitcom. Co-creator Brett Goldstein shared that Ford praised it as the 'best script I've ever read,' despite having other scripts on his table. Ford later explained his interest stemmed from the pilot's 'combination of pathos and comedy.'
Ford's portrayal of Paul Rhoades garnered critical acclaim, resulting in a 2025 Emmy nomination for best supporting actor in a drama series. The series explores themes of grief and therapy through humor, with Ford's performance adding depth to the ensemble.