Ted McGinley Reflects on 'Shrinking' Character Derek's Newfound Appreciation

The veteran actor discusses his role and working with co-star Harrison Ford on the Apple TV+ comedy series.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 3:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a recent interview, veteran actor Ted McGinley discussed his role as Derek on the Apple TV+ comedy series "Shrinking". McGinley shared that he was honored to see his character, who is often overlooked, get the affection and appreciation he deserves from the other characters after a near-death experience. McGinley also talked about working with co-star Harrison Ford, who plays the prickly therapist Paul, and how he has grown to see Ford as "just a guy" rather than an iconic film star.

Why it matters

The storyline around Derek's near-death experience and the realization that people care about him highlights the show's themes of found family and the importance of human connection. McGinley's insights into his character and working with a legendary actor like Harrison Ford provide an interesting behind-the-scenes look at the making of the popular comedy series.

The details

In the latest episode of "Shrinking", Derek lands in the hospital after accidentally eating an entire bag of his adult son's marijuana gummies. Unsure of what is happening, Derek's loved ones rush to his side, realizing how much they care about him. McGinley said he was "honored" that the writers chose to showcase Derek's importance to the other characters. The actor also discussed his interactions with co-star Harrison Ford, who plays the prickly therapist Paul. McGinley admitted he was initially starstruck working with Ford, but has since grown to see him as "just a guy" and appreciates Ford's generosity on set.

  • In this week's episode of "Shrinking", Derek lands in the hospital after a near-death experience.

The players

Ted McGinley

A veteran actor known for his roles in shows like "Happy Days", "Married with Children", and "Hope & Faith", who currently stars as Derek on the Apple TV+ comedy series "Shrinking".

Harrison Ford

The iconic film star who plays the prickly therapist Paul on "Shrinking".

Derek

McGinley's character on "Shrinking" who is often overlooked but is revealed to be deeply cared for by the other characters.

Liz

Derek's wife, played by Christa Miller, who is also a character on "Shrinking".

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He's always there for other people and he is a guy that has your back and you can trust Derek and I think what is interesting is Derek is finding out that there are people that care about him and there are people who are affected by him.”

— Ted McGinley, Actor

“I was honored by the fact that the writers wrote that these characters cared about Derek. It was such an honor for Derek and, frankly, for me.”

— Ted McGinley, Actor

“Candice Bergen is TV royalty. She is the embodiment of class in every possible way. She's a rock star.”

— Ted McGinley, Actor

“When I first got on the show, I couldn't get over the fact that that was Harrison Ford. I grew up literally worshiping his movies. That's Indiana Jones right there.”

— Ted McGinley, Actor

What’s next

The show's third season, featuring the continued storylines of Derek, Liz, and the rest of the ensemble cast, is currently airing on Apple TV+.

The takeaway

"Shrinking" continues to explore the complexities of human relationships and the importance of found family, with Ted McGinley's character Derek serving as a heartwarming example of a character who is finally getting the appreciation he deserves from those around him.