Brett Goldstein Differs Greatly from Roy Kent in 'Shrinking,' and a Compelling New Episode Reveals Why That Decision Was Wise
Brett Goldstein understood the significance of delivering the emotional core of this week's "Shrinking" episode, where Alice, portrayed by Lukita Maxwell, confronts the man responsible for her mother's death in a drunk driving incident—a role inhabited by the "Ted Lasso" veteran. This isn't Goldstein's first venture into Bill Lawrence's realm of poignant television narratives.
"Filming that scene was exceptionally meaningful," Goldstein, who co-conceived the series with Lawrence and lead actor Jason Segel, shared with CNN in last month's interview. "We all realized the importance of the scene, so we had to ensure its perfection."
Alice, still harboring resentment over her mother's demise, consents to meet Louis (Goldstein) after Brian (Michael Urie) reveals his unexpected engagement with him. At Louis' residence, Alice tenderly reminisces about her mother, only for the atmosphere to shift.
"There's not a single moment I don't think of her, or you, or your father," Louis confesses to Alice, tears brimming in his eyes. "I wish I could undo it, go back in time..."
Before he completes his thought, Alice cuts in.
"I forgive you," she declares.
Louis stumbles over his words but lands on a straightforward response: "Thank you."
The scene tugs at the heartstrings, brought to life by Goldstein and Maxwell's layered performances.
"It marks a turning point in the season regarding the forgiveness narrative. Alice forgives, and then it's, 'What about Jimmy's (Segel) journey?' It's now his story," Goldstein noted.
"Shrinking" features Segel, Maxwell, Jessica Williams, and Harrison Ford, among others. It centers on Jimmy, who adopts unconventional tactics in his therapy practice while mourning his wife's passing. His choice to disregard conventional ethics and training catalyzes significant transformations in the lives of his clients, Alice, and himself.
Goldstein's character made his debut at the onset of Season 2.
Goldstein recognized the gravity of the scene—Alice confronting the man responsible for her mother's absence and offering forgiveness—wasn't lost on anyone involved in the filming.
In a typically jovial and "playful" set, a solemn silence descended as the pivotal scene unfolded.
"It was one of those truly special days in production. Everyone was silent that day... I believe everyone was deeply focused," he remarked. "I found it profoundly moving, and I hold that scene dear."
Segel urged Goldstein to portray Louis, a stark contrast from the rugged, bearded UK footballer Roy Kent he embodied in the Emmy-winning "Ted Lasso."
"I was quite apprehensive," Goldstein admitted about guest starring in Season 2. "The show is fantastic. I didn't want to be the cause of its downfall," he added, with a chuckle.
Segel explained his motivation for encouraging Goldstein to accept the role, praising him as "one of the finest actors today."
He also related to Goldstein's situation as an actor closely associated with a popular TV character. (Segel portrayed the quirky married lawyer Marshall Eriksen on CBS's "How I Met Your Mother" for nine seasons).
"The pivotal change in my life and career came from not waiting for someone to believe in my potential," Segel stated. "I knew Brett aspired to play that role, and I simply said, 'You created the show. You can choose any role. This is your opportunity to showcase your range.' I'm thrilled he agreed because he's impeccable."
Episodes 1-6 of "Shrinking" are streaming on AppleTV+. New episodes arrive on Wednesdays.
