Candice Bergen, the renowned Emmy-winning actress known for her iconic role in *Murphy Brown*, has shared her excitement about making a guest appearance in the popular Apple TV+ series *Shrinking*. In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Bergen discussed how her desire to participate in the show led her to reach out to its creator directly to express her interest.
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Bergen, who boasts five Emmy awards and has had a prolific career in television with shows such as *Boston Legal* and *Sex and the City*, describes herself as a long-time fan of the series. Her eagerness to join the cast stems from her admiration for the show’s blend of humour and honesty. “It’s so remarkable, it’s just the truest, smartest, wittiest show,” she remarked, praising the series for its subtlety and depth.
In the upcoming seventh episode of the third season, the 79-year-old actress portrays the character Constance, a mother concerned about her son Derek, played by Ted McGinley. Constance arrives in town to assist Derek as he recuperates from heart surgery. However, her presence creates tension, particularly with Derek’s wife, Liz, played by Christa Miller, who is often irked by Constance’s unsolicited criticism regarding her parenting.
Bergen fondly reminisced about the role, stating, “I was happy that they were able to squeeze me onto it and play Derek’s mother.” The layered character of Constance allows Bergen to explore complex familial dynamics and showcase her comedic talents. Alongside the conflicts with Liz, the episode also features a poignant interaction between Constance and Paul, portrayed by Harrison Ford. Their shared phrase, “F— Parkinson’s,” serves as a moment of solidarity, particularly resonating with Bergen, whose late husband, Marshall Rose, passed away due to complications related to the disease.
Reflecting on this interaction, Bergen expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to deliver that line with Ford. “It was great,” she shared. “I love being able to do that.” Bergen has known Ford for many years, having first met him at a gathering decades ago when he worked as a carpenter. She described their initial encounter with a sense of nostalgia, quipping about how Ford was “eating and hammering at the same time.”
During her time on the set of *Shrinking*, Bergen had the chance to catch up with Ford, who shared stories about his passion for aviation. She praised him as “a national treasure,” highlighting his versatility and charm.
In her personal life, Bergen is a mother to Chloe Malle, who serves as the head of editorial content at Vogue and has two children of her own. When asked if she applies her character Constance’s parenting advice to her real life, Bergen remarked, “I never give advice unless I’m asked.” This sentiment reflects her belief in respecting personal boundaries, as she prefers to keep her own parenting philosophy to herself unless sought out.
New episodes of *Shrinking* will continue to premiere every Wednesday on Apple TV+, offering viewers a blend of heartfelt storytelling and insightful humour. With Bergen’s involvement in the show, fans can look forward to her unique portrayal of Constance, enriching the narrative with her legendary presence.
As one of television’s most beloved figures, Candice Bergen’s guest role is anticipated not only for her talent but also for the personal connections and heartfelt observations she brings to this acclaimed series.