Final Thoughts on the Finale

The much-anticipated finale of Shrinking, titled “The Last Thanksgiving,” aired on Apple TV+ on December 24, leaving fans buzzing with thoughts and emotions. So, what happens when a show known for its quirky therapy sessions decides to veer into the territory of unconditional forgiveness? Spoilers ahead!

Throughout the second season, viewers were gripped by one pivotal question: would Jimmy, played by Jason Segel, ever forgive Louis, the man whose actions led to the tragic death of his wife, Tia? This theme of forgiveness resonates deeply with creator Bill Lawrence’s previous work, particularly in Ted Lasso, where harmony and emotional growth are paramount.

As the season progressed, Shrinking moved away from the sharp, comedic wit that characterized its first season—where therapist Jimmy offered unorthodox, sometimes harsh advice to his patients—and embraced a softer, more sentimental narrative. The finale sees Jimmy and Louis making peace in a train station, offering a neat resolution but potentially signaling stagnation in the series' dramatic arc moving forward.

Fans of the show might be scratching their heads at the rapid storyline resolutions for long-standing character issues this season. Take, for example, Jimmy's patient Sean, who rapidly transitions from struggling with PTSD to encouraging a near-stranger to enlist in the Army for personal growth. Similarly, Brian, Jimmy's best friend, quickly overcomes his fears of fatherhood after realizing a baby can be a mere accessory rather than a life-altering responsibility. Such swift resolutions feel both rushed and overly simplistic, raising questions about the authenticity of these character journeys.

The parallel narratives of Louis and Jimmy are highlighted in the emotional flashbacks that explore their past lives before tragedy struck. Interestingly, their shared experiences not only create a bond of mutual understanding but also bolster a narrative of redemption that feels somewhat forced. In a striking moment of emotional climax, Alice, Jimmy's daughter, confronts her father, urging him to forgive Louis, which is a pivotal twist that feels overly calculated amid the show’s previous tension.

As many have pointed out, the comparisons to Ted Lasso are inescapable, especially with the way Jimmy’s character now resembles Lasso’s optimistic coaching style. Both create connections through unconventional methods, but where Ted Lasso embraced humor and depth, Shrinking seems to have simplified its foundation, losing some of its original edge.

Looking ahead, one must wonder what directions the series will take in its already-ordered third season. Will Louis, a character who has yet to be fully explored beyond his “good guy with a single mistake” trope, deepen in complexity? Will new dynamics, such as potential roommate scenarios between Louis and Sean, or Louis becoming a patient, add more layers to the storyline? There’s significant potential for character interconnections, but Shrinking must tread carefully to maintain its authenticity.

As the finale wrapped, viewers were left both touched and troubled. Could this soft touch become a double-edged sword? Will the show risk losing its quirky charm in favor of a saccharine conclusion? With the whimsical spirit of Ted Lasso hovering over it, Shrinking stands at a crossroads: it can either redefine itself while keeping its heart or fall prey to tropes that feel worn and conventional. The audience eagerly awaits the next chapter in this ever-evolving narrative of healing and relationships.