POLISCOPE
Back to feed
NewsKPBS Public MediaAugust 18, 2026San Diego

Actor Jason Segel discusses personal mental health and creative process on 'Shrinking'

Actor Jason Segel shares how his personal experiences with anxiety and therapy informed his role as a grieving psychotherapist in the Apple TV series 'Shrinking'. He discusses his approach to acting, the importance of vulnerability, and his collaboration with co-star Harrison Ford.

entertainmentmental healthtelevisionacting
Read the full story at KPBS Public Media

Why It Matters

This article provides insight into the creative development of a popular television series and the personal experiences of a public figure regarding mental health.

Key Facts

  • Jason Segel was diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder as a child.
  • Segel plays a psychotherapist named Jimmy in the series 'Shrinking'.
  • The character Jimmy was written to start at a 'rock bottom' point to allow for character development.
  • A specific scene in Season 3 of 'Shrinking' regarding 'scars' was derived from a real-life therapy session Segel attended.
  • Segel is nominated for an Emmy for his role in 'Shrinking'.
  • Segel previously wrote and starred in the film 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall'.
  • Segel portrayed David Foster Wallace in the film 'The End of the Tour'.

Who's Mentioned

personHarrison Ford“Actor and co-star of 'Shrinking'.”organizationApple TV“Platform for the series 'Shrinking'.”personJason Segel“Actor and subject of the interview.”personDavid Foster Wallace“Historical figure portrayed by Segel.”personJeff Bridges“Actor cited as an influence.”