Jimmy’s Key Call in Shrinking Season 2 Episode 11: Who Does He Reach Out To?

Warning: Spoilers are included for Shrinking season 2, episode 11, titled “The Drugs Don’t Work.” In this pivotal episode, Jimmy grapples with his daughter Alice’s (Lukita Maxwell) anger after learning he has forbidden Brett Goldstein’s character, Louis, from having any contact with her. This familial conflict drives Alice to temporarily move out, severing ties with her father. As a result, Jimmy’s unresolved grief over his wife’s passing, Tia (Lilan Bowden), resurfaces dramatically, casting a shadow over his progress.

Throughout Shrinking’s previous seasons, Jimmy highlighted his growth, overcoming numerous personal hurdles. Yet, in season 2, episode 11, he finds himself spiraling back into old patterns. In the past, he effectively masked his pain by focusing on his patients, but that reprieve has now become fleeting. In his darkest moment, Jimmy reaches out to the show’s sage character, Paul (Harrison Ford), who has previously encouraged him to seek support during tough times. However, before that critical emotional moment, Jimmy initiates a conversation with an old acquaintance.

Jimmy Contacts An Old Escort In Shrinking Season 2, Episode 11

Introduction of Kiara in Shrinking’s First Episode

Jimmy (Jason Segel) and two escorts standing in the kitchen in Shrinking season 2, episode 8 — Image via Apple TV+

While friends like Brian (Michael Urie) and Charlie (Devin Kawaoka) celebrate their new family by adopting a baby, Jimmy isolates himself at home and decides to call Kiara (Ashley Elyse Rogers). Kiara is an escort who has been part of Jimmy’s life since Tia’s death. She first appeared in the series’ premiere, contributing to a humorous incident involving Jimmy’s neighbor, Liz (Christa Miller), and was featured in flashbacks during season 2, episode 8, showcasing her past interactions with Jimmy.

Upon receiving Jimmy’s unexpected call, Kiara is taken aback, as it’s been quite a while since they last communicated. When Jimmy suggests spending time together, she clarifies that she is no longer working as an escort. Kiara offers to get in touch with friends who still work in that capacity and suggests that Jimmy should call her back if he desires. However, her unease is evident as she expresses her hope that he refrains from doing so, indicating her belief that this approach is not conducive to his healing.

Insights from Jimmy’s Call in Shrinking Season 2

Evidence of Jimmy’s Stagnation

This phone call serves as a poignant reflection of Jimmy’s ongoing struggles. During the initial episodes of Shrinking, he used Kiara as a means of distraction from his overwhelming grief. Although he has made commendable strides in addressing his emotions, the situation with Louis and Alice has thrust him back into a state of regression, reverting to maladaptive behaviors reminiscent of his earlier coping mechanisms.

However, it’s worth noting that Jimmy’s decision to reach out to Paul at the conclusion of the episode indicates a critical step forward. It signifies his acknowledgment of needing assistance—a vital aspect of his ongoing journey towards healing, which will likely play a substantial role in the season 2 finale, as well as the anticipated developments in Shrinking season 3.

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