Candice Bergen, the iconic star of "Murphy Brown," is set to make a special appearance in the third season of Apple TV+’s hit series, Shrinking. This exciting news was announced by co-creator Bill Lawrence during a panel at the recent ATX TV Festival in Austin, Texas. The revelation came as Lawrence was discussing his work with fellow actor Michael J. Fox, who also guest stars in this season alongside Bergen.
Bergen’s participation adds another layer of excitement to Shrinking, which has garnered significant attention and acclaim for its unique storytelling and strong performances. The show follows the life of Jimmy, portrayed by Jason Segel, a therapist navigating his own grief and learning how to break the rules in the lives of his patients and those around him.
In addition to Bergen and Fox, the cast of Shrinking also features Harrison Ford, who has been a major draw for the series. Lawrence expressed his admiration for Fox, labeling him as “one of the greatest people” he has ever met and mentioning the mentorship he received from Fox early in his career. He highlighted the surprises of being able to work alongside such esteemed actors at this stage in his life, stating, “I didn’t expect to have career highlights at this point in my career.”
While Lawrence didn’t go into detail about Bergen’s specific role, the anticipation surrounding her appearance certainly adds to the excitement for the upcoming season. Shrinking has become known for its thoughtful exploration of grief, mental health, and personal transformation, and Bergen’s involvement is likely to add a fresh dynamic to the narrative.
The addition of new cast members for Season 3, including Jeff Daniels, Sherry Cola, and Isabella Gomez, signifies the creators’ commitment to expanding the show’s universe and introducing new storylines that resonate with audiences. These new characters are expected to enrich the already diverse and talented cast that includes Christa Miller, Jessica Williams, Luke Tennie, and Michael Urie.
Fans are eager to see how Bergen’s comedic prowess and dramatic abilities will blend with the already established characters in Shrinking. The show’s co-creators, Lawrence, Brett Goldstein, and Segel, have crafted a narrative that feels both authentic and heartwarming.
Fans of Bergen will also remember her recent guest appearances in shows like And Just Like That… and The Conners. Each role has demonstrated her enduring ability to engage audiences, a testament to her talent and versatility as an actress.
In reflecting on his past experiences with Michael J. Fox, Lawrence shared stories of how Fox supported his growth as a writer and producer during the creation of the hit sitcom Spin City. He recounted memorable moments from the show that shaped his career, such as one iconic experience during a live audience taping. Fox’s encouragement and humor helped Lawrence gain confidence as a writer, reminding him that it was okay to take risks—even if those risks sometimes led to crickets instead of laughter.
The camaraderie and close relationships among the cast members were evident during the panel discussion, as Zach Braff, an alum of Scrubs, joked about the friendships that have endured over the years. Braff expressed excitement about the potential Scrubs revival currently in development, stating that the original cast remains close and enjoys being together, both on and off-screen.
As Shrinking prepares to launch its third season, the addition of Bergen, along with returning favorites and fresh faces, ensures that viewers have much to look forward to. The narrative promises to continue its engaging blend of humor and heartfelt moments, exploring the complexities of relationships and the trials of life.
In an era where mental health and emotional well-being are paramount, Shrinking is more than just a comedy series; it’s a thoughtful reflection on the human experience. The decision to cast seasoned actors like Candice Bergen speaks volumes about the creators’ intentions to balance humor with the realities of life, making the show relatable to many.
As the premiere date draws closer, fans are left to wonder how Bergen’s talents will intersect with those of Ford and Fox, creating compelling storylines that resonate with the audience. The anticipation surrounding Shrinking is palpable, and with Lawrence at the helm, one can only expect the series to continue breaking boundaries while entertaining viewers along the way.
In conclusion, Candice Bergen’s guest appearance on Shrinking, alongside Michael J. Fox and the dynamic cast, foreshadows an enchanting season filled with laughter, depth, and poignant storytelling. This collaboration among icons of television represents a celebration of the craft, inviting long-time fans and new viewers alike to share in the journey of healing and connection.
