In the newest installment of Apple TV’s acclaimed comedy series Shrinking, the character Paul Rhoades, portrayed by Harrison Ford, introduces a concept he calls The Field. This intriguing idea suggests that life is akin to a dialogue with the universe, where seeking answers can summon what one needs most. Although many are quick to dismiss it as mere “spiritual nonsense,” I find myself drawn to this notion, perhaps because Shrinking‘s third season arrived in my life exactly when I needed it.

Amidst a world fraught with turmoil and division, the latest season of this heartfelt creation by Bill Lawrence, Brett Goldstein, and Jason Segel offers a soothing embrace. It stands as a beacon of warmth and hope, showcasing the beauty of human connection and understanding.

From the raw depiction of grief in its inaugural season to the exploration of forgiveness in its second, Shrinking has evolved into a therapeutic experience. This exceptional comedy is rich with laughter yet unafraid to delve into profound subjects, prompting viewers to reflect deeply. It masterfully balances humor with emotion, offering both catharsis and inspiration. Season 3’s overarching message of moving forward resonates with a sense of optimism, despite the characters’ struggles.

The season sees Alice (Lukita Maxwell) preparing to step into a new chapter of her life by heading to college far from home. Meanwhile, Sean (Luke Tennie) faces unexpected changes when someone from his past reemerges, reshaping his current priorities. Parenthood beckons for Brian (Michael Urie) and Charlie (Devin Kawaoka), while Liz (Christa Miller) and Derek (Ted McGinley) find deeper appreciation through family challenges. Gaby (Jessica Williams) seeks greater purpose in her career and reconsiders her future with Derrick (Damon Wayans Jr.). As for Paul, his journey with Parkinson’s offers him fresh insights.

Following a poignant conversation with Louis (Brett Goldstein) at the end of Season 2, Jimmy (Jason Segel) has embraced forgiveness, even befriending the person who caused his wife’s fatal accident. Yet, despite encouraging others to move forward, Jimmy finds himself stuck, unable to embrace new beginnings, particularly with Sofi (Cobie Smulders). His struggle is evident, likening himself to a candy bar stubbornly suspended in a vending machine. The arrival of his father Randy (played by the twice Emmy-awarded Jeff Daniels) stirs unresolved issues, offering Segel the chance to reveal new, genuine layers of his character.

Segel and the rest of the ensemble deliver another round of compelling comedic and dramatic performances, with exciting new pairings and brilliantly orchestrated group scenes. But there’s no question that Shrinking Season 3 belongs to Williams and Ford.

Gaby, one of Shrinking’s most infectious personalities, keeps the laughs coming while navigating her most serious season yet. As she doubts her career, confronts commitment issues head-on, and encounters fresh sources of grief, Williams gives affecting, Emmy-worthy performances that will take your breath away. Season 3 also strengthens Gaby’s relationship with Paul, who takes his role as her mentor to the next level. Their deepening dynamic results in one of the most heartwarming exchanges of the entire series. 

As Paul’s Parkinson’s disease progresses, Ford’s nuanced, career-great performance evolves once more. In Season 3, bilateral tremors (“24-hour jazz hands”) and a gradual loss of independence bring him closer to Julie (Wendie Malick) and Meg (Lily Rabe), prompting him to contemplate his mortality and legacy. How Ford has yet to win an Emmy for his hilarious, soul-stirring work on this series is beyond comprehension. But in tear-jerking moments of courageous vulnerability, it’s clear that Shrinking — which arms the 83-year-old cultural icon with wit, heart, and emotional intelligence instead of pistols, bullwhips, or a lightsaber — is his most heroic role to date.

In one of television’s most remarkable feats, Shrinking’s third season also welcomes legendary actor and Parkinson’s advocate Michael J. Fox into the mix. The Spin City star came out of retirement and reunited with close pal Bill Lawrence to play Gerry, a Parkinson’s patient who befriends Paul and delivers one of Season 3’s mottos: “Fuck Parkinson’s.” Though Gerry’s symptoms are further along than those of Shrinking‘s grumpy therapist, his humor still remains intact. With Fox’s fight and fortitude on full display, he nails comedic timing and proves what a powerful asset personality is when weathering hard times. Parkinson’s disease is prominent in Lawrence and Goldstein’s lives, and Shrinking has always handled its portrayal with immense care. But Fox’s involvement brings rare, incredibly rewarding layers of authenticity and meaning that make Shrinking of even greater service to the world.

As a major weeper, I didn’t make it through a single one of Season 3’s 11 episodes without waterworks, but from witty one-liners and endearingly exaggerated personalities to physical comedy, musical numbers, and more it bears repeating that Shrinking is very funny and never maudlin. The series excels at giving viewers emotional whiplash (complimentary), but the team hasn’t just mastered the art of flicking from poignant to playful scenes on a dime. It also lets highs and lows co-exist.

Without spoiling major storylines, when the end credits roll on Shrinking Season 3, there’s a clear sense of closure within the group. Lawrence likely completed the three-season arc he initially pitched, and it would be a satisfying conclusion. But with no end-of-series confirmation (Ted Lasso PTSD) and him and the cast telling Decider they’d be open to Season 4, there’s also a chance the series continues.

Despite watching several characters learn the importance of selflessness in Season 3, I’m here to bravely (aka selfishly) admit that I’m not ready to say goodbye to my lovable TV family yet.

Shrinking is more than just a show about grief, forgiveness, and moving forward. It’s a celebration of romance, friendship, and found family. It’s an exhibition of empathy, community, accountability, and kindness that makes you want to become a better person. And in today’s world, that feels like essential viewing. So I’m just a girl, standing in front of The Field, asking for Shrinking Season 4.

Shrinking Season 3 premieres January 28 on Apple TV with new episodes releasing every Friday.