Shrinking is one of the best shows on TV, and it’s entirely because of the characters. It’s because every episode effortlessly reminds us of something we can take away and apply to our own lives. It’s never preachy, but in a thoroughly organic manner, it reminds us that we’re going to be okay. And in “Dereks Don’t Die,” it centers the titular character to effectively showcase how he’s someone people would go out of their way for. It’s a reminder of who Christa Miller’s Liz is, too, and in an interview with Lady Geeks, Ted McGinley breaks down what it means for him to be referred to as “the joy.”
It’s worth noting that McGinley himself is an absolute joy to speak with, so hearing him talk about the character adds even more layers to what the episode represents and why we all appreciate Derek so much. Because ultimately, when it comes to Shrinking, it’s about how deeply these characters care for each other and what it means to be a found family. McGinley goes on to note how significant the scene is for Derek and Liz, stating, “That’s the secret that Derek sees in Liz. It’s super important, and I think that I, as Derek, understand that that’s their relationship. That’s the thing that he hangs on to when it’s tough and that he needed her in that moment.”
The vulnerability that we see between Liz and Derek in the episode beautifully brings to life both their adoration for one another, while showing us exactly who they are deep down. McGinley goes on to praise his scene partner, Christa Miller, by telling us, “It was beautiful. She [Christa Miller] played it so beautifully and is a force to work opposite. She gives you a lot that you don’t know how it’s going to come. It’s very exciting.”
But Miller isn’t the only one. We see this through every cast member as “Dereks Don’t Die” gives us plenty of moments to reveal just how much everyone cares for Derek and how concerned they are for him. McGinley then gives us a moving response when he’s asked about Derek’s impact, explaining how watching the episode back struck him with just how human everything comes across.
“That’s all the wisdom and the genius of our writing staff. It means something to them. They understand that Derek is this fine line of ‘too much, not enough,’ and that he is important. I didn’t realize that until I saw this. Watching the reactions after he goes into the hospital, I had no idea [of how it’d come across]. When you see the actors play it? It killed me. And I was so proud of Derek that he had an impact on these people. It shows that the writers respect all those relationships with Dere.k and it meant a lot to me. I was so floored.”
It really is astounding just how revolutionary Shrinking can be and why it hits its audience so hard. Between the writing and the cast, the series is rich with nuances that are deeply relatable, raw, and so incredibly human. It’s a show about community and the importance of looking out for people, which an episode like “Dereks Don’t Die” explores perfectly.
Watch the full interview with Ted McGinley below: