Michael J Fox inspired Harrison Ford's depiction of Parkinson's disease in 'Shrinking'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: For Bill Lawrence, storytelling often springs from deeply personal experiences, and creating 'Shrinking' was no different.
The award-winning Apple TV+ dramedy has captivated audiences, not just for its sharp humor and poignant moments, but for its nuanced portrayal of Parkinson’s disease through the character Paul, played by Harrison Ford.
Bill Lawrence opens up about how Michael J Fox inspired the series
At a recent 'An Evening with Shrinking' event at PaleyLive, Bill Lawrence revealed to People how his long-standing friendship with Michael J Fox, coupled with personal connections to the disease, shaped the series in profound ways.
In 'Shrinking', Paul, a mental health professional, navigates life after being diagnosed with Parkinson's, a brain disorder that can lead to tremors, stiffness, and coordination difficulties.
Lawrence shared with the outlet that both his father and co-creator Brett Goldstein’s father have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, making the subject matter deeply personal. "It's cool to get to write about things you care about now," the 56-year-old said.
However, it’s his relationship with Michael J Fox that left the deepest imprint on the show's narrative.
Lawrence and Fox first crossed paths on the hit sitcom 'Spin City', which aired from 1996 to 2002.
In 1998, Fox publicly disclosed his Parkinson’s diagnosis, a revelation that transformed him into a global advocate for research and awareness.
"I found the first mentor in my life and career, Michael J Fox, to be so inspiring with the way he took it in stride and continues to work harder than anybody I know," Lawrence explained. "We wanted to represent it in hopefully an inspiring and not sad or tragic way."
This ethos—of embracing challenges with resilience and humor—is at the heart of Paul’s journey in Shrinking. Lawrence described his writing approach as "hopeful and optimistic by nature," drawing inspiration from people who face adversity with grace.
"I suck in the inspiring people around me, and I steal from them as much as I possibly can," he admitted with a laugh.
Harrison Ford on playing Paul in 'Shrinking'
Harrison Ford, 82, brought a quiet authenticity to Paul’s character.
"I feel like I’m telling a story," Ford said, emphasizing his commitment to portraying Paul with sensitivity and depth. "The story I’m telling is a story that I know, and so I can just simply feel it."
Ford’s portrayal resonates with audiences, capturing the courage and wisdom of those living with the disease.
"There are people that absorb these kinds of experiences with grace and courage and a little bit of wisdom. It’s just to say that this is a person particularly equipped to communicate what it’s like, Ford added.
Lawrence is already thinking ahead to Season Three, which he promises will delve even deeper into Paul’s story.
"I’m obsessed with showing the portrait of living with it," he said, hinting at a continued exploration of Parkinson’s that balances honesty with optimism, as per Daily Mail.
Season Two of 'Shrinking' concluded on December 24.
For Lawrence, the show’s success was in its ability to tackle tough subjects with a comedic lens. "It takes you a while as a writer to realize what your voice is. I think mine is hopeful and optimistic by nature," he expressed.
