Renowned for his iconic roles in action-packed franchises, Harrison Ford has surprised audiences with a new comedic side in Apple TV+’s Shrinking. The series, co-created by Bill Lawrence, Brett Goldstein, and Jason Segel, explores the complexities of grief and mental health through the lens of a therapist, Jimmy Laird, played by Segel.
Segel’s character, grappling with personal loss, adopts an unconventional approach to therapy, leading to humorous and heartfelt interactions with his mentor, Paul Rhoades, portrayed by Ford. The dynamic between the two actors is a highlight of the show, with Ford’s signature gruffness tempered by moments of surprising vulnerability.
But what led Ford, a Hollywood legend, to take on such a different role? According to Segel, it was a rather unconventional pitch: a nude scene.
In a recent interview, Segel revealed that Ford, initially unfamiliar with Segel’s comedic work, was encouraged to watch Forgetting Sarah Marshall. The film, known for its raunchy humor, features a memorable scene where Segel’s character is seen completely nude.
“After watching the movie, Ford texted Bill Lawrence, ‘I’m in. BTW, good dick,’” Segel recounted. The reference was to the nude scene, which evidently made a lasting impression on the veteran actor.
The anecdote offers a glimpse into the unexpected ways creative projects can come together. Ford’s decision to join Shrinking is a testament to the power of humor and the ability of actors to surprise their audiences.
