Ted McGinley Says Working With Michael J. Fox on ‘Shrinking’ Was “Incredibly Special”
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Ted McGinley is opening up about one of the most meaningful moments of his time on Shrinking — sharing the screen with Michael J. Fox.
During a recent appearance on TODAY, McGinley pointed to Fox’s involvement as a clear highlight, describing the experience as “incredibly special” and emphasizing the deep respect the cast felt having the beloved actor on set.
Rather than feeling like a simple guest appearance, McGinley suggested Fox’s presence carried emotional weight, reinforcing the show’s core themes of empathy and resilience.
He also noted that being part of the same creative space as Fox felt like a genuine career milestone — a moment shaped by admiration as much as by the collaborative spirit on set.
While Fox’s appearance stood out as a personal highlight, McGinley also spoke with clear affection about playing Derek, the endlessly supportive neighbor and husband who has quietly become a fan favorite.
“I’m so proud of who Derek is,” he said, pointing to the character’s kindness and emotional intelligence as the qualities he enjoys bringing to the screen most. He described Derek as someone who consistently shows up for the people around him — a steady presence whose warmth helps balance the show’s heavier themes.
That perspective, McGinley suggested, is part of why the role feels so meaningful. Even amid Shrinking’s messier moments, Derek represents the kind of grounded optimism that gives the series its heart — a tone that, he implied, made sharing the world of the show with Fox feel even more fitting.
Check out a clip from McGinley’s interview with TODAY above.
