PALEYFEST LA CELEBRATES APPLE TV’S “SHRINKING” AT DOLBY THEATRE
Michael J. Fox Makes Surprise Appearance
[Los Angeles, CA – April 7, 2026] – The Paley Center for Media continued PaleyFest LA 2026 with Apple TV’s acclaimed comedy “Shrinking” at the Dolby Theatre, bringing together the series’ celebrated cast and creative team for an evening of humor, heart, and behind-the-scenes insight.
The event featured red carpet arrivals, a special screening, and a conversation with co-creator, showrunner, and executive producer Bill Lawrence, who moderated; co-creator, executive producer, and star Jason Segel; and cast members .
Fans were treated to a lively and heartfelt discussion exploring the show’s unique blend of comedy and emotional storytelling, with the cast and creators sharing personal anecdotes, character insights, and the collaborative spirit behind “Shrinking.”
When asked by Lawrence whether he knew he was funny, Ford quipped, “Yes, if the writing was any good.” He went on to describe his approach to playing someone with Parkinson’s disease as a mix of “ambition and pure terror.” He added that the responsibility is something he takes quite seriously, “even though it’s a comedy sometimes, I don’t want to minimize the difficulty of the disease.” Later in the evening, Ford expressed that the role “has been one of the most pleasurable experiences of my life.”
Each of the actors dove into their respective characters, with McGinley’s portrayal of the loveable Derek being called “the greatest gift” by the actor, who explained that “people come by and they have the kindest things to say about Derek.” “I have a little bit of road rage,” he continued, “and I’m always worried that someone’s going to say ‘Oh my god, Derek just gave me the finger!’ I can’t help it, I live in LA.”
The evening also featured a special surprise appearance by the series’ guest star Michael J. Fox, receiving an enthusiastic welcome from the audience. His appearance added an emotional highlight to the night, underscoring the series’ themes of resilience, connection, and humor in the face of life’s challenges.
On working with Ford, Fox said “I didn’t have to prove to him that I had Parkinson’s. He had to prove to me that he had Parkinson’s – he nailed it.”
On whether he would come back to the show next season, Fox added “I would love to do it – it would be my honor.”
PaleyFest—the nation’s premier media, television, and entertainment festival—brings audiences together with the brightest stars and biggest names at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood for exclusive screenings and cast conversations that illuminate the creative process behind your favorite shows. Festival audiences share in the magic and experience an exciting screening specially chosen for the festival, followed by a conversation with the stars and a Q&A featuring hilarious anecdotes and breaking news scoops. Your festival ticket purchase helps support the nonprofit Paley Center for Media’s public and educational programming throughout the year and ensures the ongoing preservation of the Paley Archive, where the greatest moments in media history live on.
ABOUT THE PALEY CENTER FOR MEDIA
Founded in 1975 by William S. Paley, The Paley Center for Media is the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit cultural organization that owns and operates the renowned Paley Museum in New York, recognized as the city’s “Best Museum” and “Best Children’s Party Place” for two years in a row. The Paley Center sparks dialogue on the cultural, creative, and social impact of media, sports, gaming, tech, and entertainment through dynamic programming and deep industry ties. Visitors can attend premier events in New York and Los Angeles and access the renowned Paley Archive at The Paley Museum in New York and at the Beverly Hills Public Library in Beverly Hills.
