Character Insights and Breakdown of Brett Goldstein’s Role in Shrinking Season 2

The Season 2 premiere of Shrinking marked the introduction of a new character played by Brett Goldstein, renowned for his Emmy-winning portrayal of Roy Kent in the popular Apple TV+ series, Ted Lasso. Although specific details surrounding Goldstein’s role were initially kept under wraps, it has been confirmed that he will be featured as a guest star among a distinguished cast, which includes Jason Segel, Harrison Ford, and Jessica Williams.

Bill Lawrence, the co-creator of Shrinking, teased the audience by labeling Goldstein’s character as “a sweetie,” someone “so lovely,” and an individual “you end up rooting for,”although additional specifics remained elusive until the premiere.

In an interesting twist, Lawrence revealed that Goldstein had to appear clean-shaven for his role in Shrinking, which is a stark contrast to his look as Roy in Ted Lasso. Initially, another actor was nearly cast in this role due to how different it was from Roy Kent, but Segel ultimately convinced Lawrence that Goldstein was the perfect fit.

What Character Does Brett Goldstein Portray in Shrinking Season 2?

In the premiere of Season 2, Goldstein’s character is introduced as Louis, the drunk driver responsible for the tragic death of Jimmy’s wife, Tia. During the episode titled “Jimmying,” Louis is first seen waiting in the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center.

As Jimmy encounters Louis, flashbacks reveal the horrific night of the accident, which is triggered by seeing Louis in the waiting area. This confrontation sends Jimmy into a rage, causing him to shout at Louis to leave, despite Louis’s heartfelt apology and intentions.

Goldstein distinctly differentiates Louis from Roy within moments. Louis’ gentle voice and clean-shaven appearance starkly contrast the gruffness associated with Roy in Ted Lasso. However, Goldstein maintains his British accent, despite the Pasadena, California setting of Shrinking. More about Louis’ background, including his life in Pasadena and the circumstances leading to the fateful night when Tia died, is expected to unfold throughout Season 2.

How Does Louis’ Visit Change Jimmy and Alice’s Relationship in Shrinking Season 2?

Jimmy is deeply affected by Louis’ unexpected visit, grappling with both his anger towards Louis and the overwhelming sense of devastation that follows. Eventually, he shares this tumultuous experience with his daughter Alice in a notably uncomfortable manner.

Interestingly, Alice seems to cope better than her father initially suggests, channeling her emotions into writing an unsent letter to Louis as suggested by her friend Summer.

In “I Love Pain,” the second episode, Alice decides to spend the night in Jimmy’s car, parked outside Louis’ residence. Perched on the hood, she gazes into the home of the man who unwittingly contributed to her mother’s death.

This moment underscores the profound impact the situation has on Alice, even if she doesn’t openly acknowledge it. The resurgence of her unresolved feelings—anger, sadness, and trauma related to her mother’s passing—will likely pose significant challenges for her throughout the season.

Does Brett Goldstein’s Role Go Beyond a Guest Star in Shrinking Season 2?

As a co-creator, executive producer, and writer for the series, Goldstein’s involvement in Shrinking extends far beyond that of just a guest star. He co-wrote the premiere episode “Coin Flip” alongside Segel and Lawrence and penned the script for the sixth episode of Season 2 while also contributing to the twelfth episode.

The acclaim for Season 1 can be significantly attributed to Goldstein’s behind-the-scenes contributions and his talent for transforming the series into a truly comedic, touching, and well-crafted narrative.

These efforts are conspicuous in the Season 2 premiere, which is further enriched by the introduction of Goldstein’s character, Louis. As his storyline continues to reverberate through the arcs of Jimmy, Alice, and other characters, Louis is proving to be a captivating element of Shrinking Season 2.

Here’s a look at Brett Goldstein’s character in Shrinking Season 2 up until now.

Shrinking Season 2 Episode 1 – “Jimmying”

In the series’ narrative, Jimmy Laird (Jason Segel) is processing the loss of his wife Tia (Lilan Bowden), a pivotal theme that has been referenced throughout Season 1 of Shrinking. The first episode picks up some time after Tia’s tragic car accident, portraying Jimmy as he wrestles with his profound grief.

By the conclusion of the premiere, Goldstein’s character is revealed to be the drunk driver who caused Tia’s death. Sporting a somber expression with a fresh shave, he approaches Jimmy in his office, seeking a conversation.

However, Goldstein’s character is met with hostility and is demanded to leave, triggering Jimmy’s repressed emotions. Flashbacks at the season’s start depict Jimmy recounting his experiences at the accident scene, cutting back to a clearer image of Goldstein being loaded into a police car. (As per the credits, Goldstein’s character is named Louis.)

Shrinking Season 2 Episode 2 – “I Love Pain”

Christa Miller, Lukita Maxwell, and Luke Tennie in Shrinking | Source: IMDB

The second episode, “I Love Pain,” dives into themes of forgiveness, fear, and the complexities of adult relationships while exploring the characters’ emotional strife more deeply.

The intertwined stories of Jimmy Laird, his daughter Alice, and their patient Sean demonstrate their struggles and journeys toward finding redemption.

Following her successful driving test, Alice discusses her father’s encounter with Louis, derogatorily named “Double D” for Drunk Driver by her friend Summer (Rachel Stubington). Summer suggests that Alice write a letter to Louis to express her feelings—including her anger—a practice she found therapeutic after her own father’s divorce. Alice’s therapists back this approach as part of her healing process.

About Shrinking

Shrinking is a comedic TV series crafted by Brett Goldstein, Bill Lawrence, and Jason Segel, available on Apple TV+.

The narrative follows a therapist grappling with intense grief who starts crossing ethical lines by candidly expressing his thoughts to his patients, leading to significant changes in their lives and his own.

The show features a talented cast, including Jason Segel, Harrison Ford, Jessica Williams, and Christa Miller, and has recently been renewed for another season.

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