Cobie Smulders Was ‘Stunned’ by the “Shrinking” Cast During Her Surprise Episode 7 Scene (Exclusive)

**Cobie Smulders Reflects on Her Role in ‘Shrinking’ Season 3**

Cobie Smulders has returned to Apple TV’s critically acclaimed comedy series “Shrinking” for its third season, playing the character Sofi. In an interview with PEOPLE, Smulders shared her thoughts on her role and how her on-screen experiences mirror her real-life interactions with the cast and crew.

The actress, who is well-known for her work in “How I Met Your Mother,” expressed her excitement about joining the show in its second season and returning for season three. She described the opportunity as an honour and expressed her admiration for the exceptional talent surrounding her. “I’m such a fan of this show. I think that it’s so brilliant,” Smulders said.

In the latest season, Smulders portrays Sofi, who may become a love interest for Jimmy, played by Jason Segel. As Jimmy grapples with the grief of losing his wife, Tia, the emotional dynamics of the characters unfold. The seventh episode, which premiered on March 11, features a poignant moment where Jimmy invites Sofi to a birthday celebration in honour of Tia, attended by family and close friends.

Sofi’s introduction is both awkward and endearing, arriving just as the group engages in a musical tribute. Her first appearance comes as a surprise, leading to a humorous yet heartfelt moment where she fumbles during their singalong. Smulders described this unique entrance as a reflection of her own feelings when meeting the show’s cast for the first time.

“It was one of those scenes where no acting is really required,” Smulders noted, highlighting how she felt flustered, just like her character. The parallel between her real-life experiences and her role in “Shrinking” is clear, as Smulders often finds herself in situations where she is still getting to know everyone, making the scene resonate on a deeper level.

As she stepped into the vibrant world of “Shrinking,” Smulders also acknowledged the immense talent surrounding her. She recalled being in awe of her co-stars, saying, “You’re like, ‘Whoa. Everybody here is so cool, so talented.’ It was pretty easy.” This appreciation for her fellow actors added to her enjoyment of the role.

One of the compelling aspects of “Shrinking” that Smulders noted is the show’s ability to address themes of grief and loss with both comedy and sensitivity. She praised the programme for effectively blending humour with heavy subject matter, making the emotional stories more accessible. “They sneak in ways to handle trauma and loss that feel like a lighter way to reach an audience,” she explained.

The actress’s insights highlight the importance of storylines that tackle grief in a meaningful way, allowing viewers to engage with the content while also learning how to cope with personal loss. “They are able to blend comedy and tragedy together in a way that’s watchable and also educational,” she concluded.

New episodes of “Shrinking” continue to be released weekly on Apple TV+ until April 8, with audiences eager to witness the evolution of the characters as they navigate their complex emotional landscapes. Smulders’s thoughtful portrayal as Sofi adds a rich layer to the ensemble, promising to keep viewers captivated as the series unfolds. As fans anticipate future developments, her presence on the show remains a highlight of the season.