As “Shrinking” returns for its third season on Apple TV, premiering January 28, 2026, critics are once again praising the series for its masterful blend of humor, emotional depth, and heartfelt storytelling.
Created by Bill Lawrence, Jason Segel, and Brett Goldstein, the show continues to explore themes of grief, forgiveness, and personal growth through its ensemble cast, led by Segel as therapist Jimmy Laird and Harrison Ford as his mentor Paul Rhoades. This season focuses on moving forward, introducing guest stars like Michael J. Fox, Jeff Daniels, and Candice Bergen, while delivering laugh-out-loud moments alongside poignant reflections.
Roger Ebert: A Balm for Troubled Times
In a review from the late Roger Ebert’s site, Brian Tallerico describes the season as evolving beyond its initial premise into a deeper exploration of emotional connections. He notes, “It feels increasingly like a balm for troubled times, a reminder that nothing is more important in this world than the people we love.”
Tallerico appreciates how the show has shifted focus from ethical therapy dilemmas to the complexities of relationships, making it feel more authentic and resonant.
Comic Book Club: Laugh-Out-Loud Funny and Enormously Cozy
Comic Book Club‘s review emphasizes the show’s consistency in delivering emotional highs and lows. “It’s still laugh-out-loud funny, it’s still enormously cozy and warm, it will still make you sob without warning, and it still boasts one of the best comedic ensembles on TV.”
The piece highlights Shrinking’s therapeutic value, suggesting viewers gain mental health insights while following the characters’ journeys toward self-improvement.
IGN: Sweet, Emotional, and Engaging
IGN’s verdict calls the season “funny, sweet, and emotional,” focusing on its theme of progression. “Shrinking’s third season centers on truly moving forward, as several characters have to look at what the next step is in their lives.”
The review praises the likeable cast and the sense that this could serve as a fitting finale, with an overall score of 8/10 for its impactful storytelling.
Yahoo Creators: A Real Winner That Confronts Real Issues
Tyler Hayes at Yahoo Creators declares, “Overall, the third season is a real winner. I love the show.”
He notes how the series broadens its appeal, addressing personal anxieties and fears amid the laughs, making it a cathartic experience that might bring viewers to tears.
Decider: A Warm Hug in Divisive Times
Decider hails the season as a “warm hug, a comforting balm, and an inspiring portrait of humanity.”
The review commends its balance of comedy and serious topics, describing it as a “top-notch hangout comedy that delivers too many laugh-out-loud moments to track, but it isn’t afraid to tackle serious subjects and challenge viewers to look within.”
Rotten Tomatoes: High Praise Across the Board
Aggregating multiple critics, Rotten Tomatoes features glowing scores, including 8/10 from FandomWire for its sentimental yet effective storytelling, and 5/5 from Loud and Clear Reviews: “Season 3 of Shrinking on Apple TV is adept at providing both the laughter and the tears, while also giving you some tools to help you navigate life when things get tough.”
Other highlights include Awards Buzz’s 8/10, noting the show “still makes you laugh, think, and occasionally cry.”
Collider: Humor, Heart, and a Potential Swan Song
Collider‘s review states, “Apple TV’s Shrinking wraps up Season 3 with humor, heart, and satisfying conclusions for its beloved characters.”
It echoes sentiments of a possible series end, praising the hopeful tone: “If this indeed is Shrinking’s final bow, Season 3 really does leave it all out there in humorous and poignant fashion.”
JoBlo: Heartwarming and Therapeutic
JoBlo’s take positions the season as essential viewing: “Shrinking delivers another outstanding season of storytelling that left me feeling a whole range of emotions, and I loved [it].”
The review likens it to Ted Lasso for its uplifting vibe, calling it “the series we all need when things are at their worst.”
WiFi HiFi Magazine: Feel-Good and Cathartic
WiFi HiFi‘s Christine Persaud shares, “I thought I’d get through this season of Apple TV series Shrinking without a tear shed, but lo and behold, they did it again!”
She deems it one of her “favourite shows of all time,” applauding its clever writing and top-notch cast.
Screen Rant: Perfect Rotten Tomatoes Score
Screen Rant reports an early 100% Rotten Tomatoes score based on initial reviews, with praise for “heartwarming themes, refreshing storylines, and balance of humor and poignancy.”
The article notes the series’ consistent critical acclaim, building on previous seasons’ high ratings.
These reviews underscore Shrinking season 3’s ability to entertain while offering emotional resonance, solidifying its place as a standout on Apple TV. Whether this marks the end or just another chapter, the consensus is clear: it’s a must-watch for fans of thoughtful comedy.
MacDailyNews Take: We watch and recommend “Shrinking” on Apple TV!
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