The soundtrack for Season 2 of Shrinking on Apple TV+ exquisitely blends music that enriches the show’s emotional landscape while accentuating its comedic moments. This season follows therapist Jimmy Laird, portrayed by Jason Segel, as he navigates his unconventional methods of helping patients, all while coping with the profound grief of losing his wife, Tia (Lilan Bowden).
Within the narrative, Jimmy’s mentor, Dr. Paul Rhoades, played by the legendary Harrison Ford, challenges his ideas about therapy, advocating for strict boundaries between therapists and their patients. This ongoing conflict serves as a primary source of both tension and humor throughout the series.
Complicating matters, Jimmy and Grace (Heidi Gardner), one of his patients, are faced with the repercussions of her actions from the previous season’s finale, where she inadvertently pushed her emotionally abusive partner off a cliff. Meanwhile, Gaby (Jessica Williams), a colleague of both Jimmy and Paul, must navigate her feelings for Jimmy while balancing her responsibilities as a therapist and adjusting to a new teaching role.
Each episode of Shrinking Season 2 is accompanied by a thoughtfully curated soundtrack that emphasizes the characters’ struggles and story arcs.
Soundtrack Overview: Episode 1
The premiere episode opens with Paul and his girlfriend, Dr. Julie Baram (Wendie Malick), dancing to “Born Under A Sun” by Albert King. Gaby interrupts this private moment as she drives Paul to work, capturing the dance on video, thrilled to witness the usually reserved Paul expressing intimacy with Julie.
As Gaby drives, the classic “Your Love” by The Outfield plays briefly. Paul tunes the radio to evade Gaby’s probing questions regarding his relationship with Julie, even singing along to the upbeat tune—an unusual moment that showcases their bond.
Later, C. James’s “Hollow Heart” adds emotional depth during a pivotal scene where Paul admits his feelings to Julie. This track reflects his vulnerability, a rare moment for a character typically guarded.
The poignant theme continues as Jimmy discusses Paul’s mentorship with Sean (Luke Tennie), realizing the importance of having Paul guide him through the therapeutic process.
The episode concludes with Fink’s “Looking Too Closely,” marking a significant transition as Sean embarks on his first therapy session with Paul, highlighting a fresh start amidst the turmoil of their circumstances.
Soundtrack Overview: Episode 2
In this episode, “Never Been Better” by Ben Abraham sets an uplifting tone as Jimmy shares a tender moment with his daughter Alice (Lukita Maxwell). The song underscores their father-daughter connection while capturing Alice’s emergence from darkness.
Meanwhile, Paul’s confrontation with his past comes to light when he meets former patient Raymond (Neil Flynn) at a club, a shift that challenges Paul’s professional detachment.
As Alice struggles with her emotions surrounding Louis’s impending visit, the song “Cope” by AKA Lisa reveals her internal conflict, particularly as she recognizes the profound effects of her mother’s loss. Alice watches Louis from a distance, symbolizing the fear and resentment brewing inside her.
Soundtrack Overview: Episode 3
The episode features “Seasons” by Dolly Parton and Bebe Rexha, playing as Alice reflects on her mother’s enduring love while dropping off her best friend, Summer (Rachel Stubington). This moment captures her sense of loss and the struggle of moving forward.
As Grace and her sister begin their new journey, Angie McMahon’s “Letting Go” encapsulates their emotional release, highlighting their growth and readiness to embrace change.
Additionally, Jimmy’s dinner with Brian (Michael Urie) allows him to further mend personal ties, while Alice’s misguided kiss with Connor (Gavin Lewis) captures her ongoing battle with letting go.
Soundtrack Overview: Episode 4
The vibrant opening of Episode 4 kicks off with “Bad Decisions” by The Strokes, paralleling Alice’s tumultuous choices from the previous night. The song highlights her emotional chaos after sleeping with Connor, encapsulating the fallout of her actions.
As Alice attempts to sneak out, her clumsiness sends her tumbling from the balcony, effectively mirroring the pandemonium of her decisions.
Continuing on, Arcade Fire’s “Age of Anxiety I” plays as Paul confides in his daughter Meg (Lily Rabe) about his uncanny ability to sense impending disasters, underscoring the relationship dynamics at play.
Gaby’s quiet denial of her sister’s call about their mother’s accident amplifies the episode’s tension, bringing Louis into the spotlight as he struggles with personal guilt.
In conclusion, “Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls serves to tie together Jimmy’s father-daughter moment, blending nostalgia with the poignant struggles of loss and the desire for connection.
Soundtrack Overview: Episode 5
In this emotionally charged episode, “Bittersweet” by Marc Sibilia captures the essence of rekindled relationships, as Jimmy extends a supportive hand to Gaby, illustrating their renewed bond amidst personal challenges.
Parallel to this, Paul has a quiet moment with his ex-wife Susan (Kelly Bishop) that signifies healing, reflecting the different ways characters are learning to cope with their pasts.
Simultaneously, Sean’s struggle deepens as he succumbs to inner turmoil, facing physical confrontation from construction workers. The song’s bittersweet essence underscores the complexity of their experiences.
Soundtrack Overview: Episode 6
As Tim (Kenajuan Bentley) visits Sean in the hospital, “One (Remix)” by Alexis Ffrench enhances this pivotal moment of reconciliation. Tim’s clarity and admission of past mistakes portray the essential journey of forgiveness and support.
Closing out Season 2, Kx5 & Deadmau5’s “Escape (John Summit Remix)” creates a fitting soundtrack during the end credits. This song echoes Liz’s emotional journey as she seeks validation and connection outside her marriage, reflecting her quest for identity.
About Shrinking
Shrinking is a comedy series jointly crafted by Brett Goldstein, Bill Lawrence, and Jason Segel for Apple TV+. The narrative centers around a therapist struggling with profound grief, leading him to violate ethical lines while directly addressing his patients. The show boasts an engaging ensemble, including Jason Segel, Harrison Ford, Jessica Williams, and Christa Miller, and has recently been renewed for a second season.
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