Harrison Ford Says Having Michael J. Fox on “Shrinking” Set Is ‘Essential’ to His Performance

Harrison Ford emphasizes the importance of having Michael J. Fox on the set of the television series “Shrinking”, describing his presence as ‘essential’. Fox, who came out of retirement to star in the show’s third season, joins Ford, who plays a therapist dealing with Parkinson’s disease in the series. Ford commended Fox for his courage, fortitude, and grace, stating that having him on set was invaluable to his performance.

In a recent interview with Variety, the 83-year-old Hollywood legend expressed how beneficial it was to have conversations with Fox, who was diagnosed with Parkinson’s back in 1991. Ford highlighted Fox’s remarkable qualities, labeling him as a smart, brave, noble, generous, and passionate individual, setting an example for everyone facing challenges, whether related to Parkinson’s or not. He acknowledged Fox’s grace and the positive impact it had on the set.

Playing the character of Dr. Paul Rhoades in “Shrinking”, Ford’s portrayal of a therapist with Parkinson’s required a deep understanding of the disease. He credited Fox for providing him with a physical representation of the illness, enabling him to delve deeper into his character’s journey and inner struggles. The collaboration between the two seasoned actors added layers of authenticity to the storyline.

Parkinson’s disease, a neurological disorder causing involuntary movements and other symptoms such as stiffness and balance issues, progresses over time. Ford acknowledged the seriousness of portraying Parkinson’s accurately on screen, emphasizing the importance of respecting the challenges the condition poses. He stressed the need for sensitivity and authenticity in depicting the impact of Parkinson’s without trivializing it.

During a previous interview with PEOPLE, Ford expressed his admiration for Fox’s decision to join the cast of “Shrinking”, highlighting the significance and purpose behind their collaboration. Beyond just acting together, Ford emphasized the shared commitment to telling a compelling story that resonates with the audience. The bond they shared over their dedication to the show further fueled their performances.

“Shrinking” recently wrapped up filming its third season, following a successful second season that earned Ford his first Primetime Emmy nomination. Alongside co-stars Jason Segel, Michael Urie, and Jessica Williams, Ford’s performance in the series garnered critical acclaim. The show’s exploration of complex themes and characters has captivated audiences, with the first two seasons currently available for streaming on Apple TV+.

In conclusion, the pairing of Harrison Ford and Michael J. Fox in “Shrinking” has not only enriched the show’s narrative but also brought attention to the nuanced portrayal of individuals living with Parkinson’s disease. Their collaboration serves as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of authenticity in portraying real-life challenges on screen. As the series continues to resonate with viewers, the performances of Ford and Fox stand out as a poignant portrayal of strength and resilience.