Podcast Summary: All Of It – Emmy-Nominated Actor Michael Urie Stars in 'Shrinking'

Podcast: All Of It (WNYC)
Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Michael Urie
Release Date: September 12, 2025

Episode Overview

This episode features Emmy-nominated actor Michael Urie discussing his role as Brian on the Apple TV+ comedy-drama series Shrinking. Host Alison Stewart explores the show's unique blend of humor and emotion, the evolving portrayal of mental health on television, and Urie’s personal and professional journey with the series. Urie’s candid reflections and behind-the-scenes insights provide a thoughtful companion for fans of the show and anyone curious about acting, grief, friendship, and queer representation.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Why Michael Urie Joined Shrinking

[02:27]

• Artistic Pedigree: Urie was initially drawn to the series by its "pedigree"—the creators, writing, and talent involved (Jason Segel, Jessica Williams, Harrison Ford).
• Script Reaction: The first episode made him "well up with tears within seconds of laughing" and showed a balance of comedy and drama.
  • Quote (Urie):
    “If this show can maintain this level of comedy and drama at the same time, then it's something really special...”
• Mental Health Representation: Urie credits the show for helping to open conversations around mental health, reducing stigma.

2. Therapy in Real Life

[03:14 – 04:26]

• Urie sought out therapy himself, inspired by his work on Shrinking.
  • Quote (Urie):
    "It was because I sort of realized through the show...this isn't just for people who think they're in trouble or who are depressed. Mental health issues maintenance is for all of us..."
• He shares how therapy is beneficial, not a necessity only for crises, paralleling physical health.

3. Describing His Character: Brian

[04:26 – 07:01]

• Brian’s Personality: Starts off happy-go-lucky, with the mantra “everything goes my way,” but as he contemplates parenthood and reconnects with his friend group, his vulnerabilities and neuroses surface.
  • Quote (Urie):
    "...we see that he's actually kind of a neurotic mess. And that was a wall that he put up."
• Chosen Family Theme: Urie discusses the show’s depiction of chosen families, especially meaningful within queer communities.
• Long-Term Friendships: Raises questions about how friendships evolve over time, especially for those who initially met while closeted:
  • Quote (Urie):
    "...the big question that I was so interested [in] in season two is, are we even friends anymore or would we be friends if we met today?...especially in the queer community. When you're in the closet, you are not your whole self."

4. Chemistry with Jason Segel

[07:34 – 08:29]

• Urie describes instant chemistry and mutual respect with Segel, who was welcoming and set a tone of kindness and professionalism.
  • Quote (Urie):
    “He gave me a big bear hug and put me at ease. And it's been very easy. You just look him in the eye and you're acting.”

5. Portraying Friendship and Grief

[08:29 – 11:29]

• Brian’s Narcissism: Urie identifies Brian as a “narcissist,” often making situations about himself—sometimes unintentionally humorous.
  • Quote (Urie):
    “He is a narcissist... any issue with Jimmy come[s] up, Brian won't make it about himself. And he doesn't know...that that's what he's doing.”
• Key Plot Point: Brian becomes the surprising but fitting bridge introducing Lewis, the man responsible for Jimmy's wife's death, into their circle, facilitating closure.
  • Quote (Urie):
    “You put this guy, who seems to be no help at all, in the right place in the right time, and he can actually help.”

6. The Iconic Monologue (Clip at [11:41 – 13:25])

• Context: Brian explains to Alice (Jimmy’s daughter) how he met Lewis, in a rambling, funny, and deeply honest monologue. Blends irreverence (e.g., “ass to ass” on public radio) and empathy.
  • Notable Lines:
    "Should we make martinis?"
    "Next thing I know... Alice, his life is bleak, like Requiem for a Dream. Bleak."
• Meta Moment:
  • Urie (on air, [13:31]):
    "Can't believe you just heard me say ass to ass on public radio."
  • Stewart:
    "It's for the art. It's for the art."

7. Preparing the Monologue

[13:35 – 16:33]

• Urie details the rare opportunity and challenge of delivering a television monologue; credits the writers for “sterling” dialogue and discusses memorization and rehearsal strategies.
  • Quote (Urie):
    “I was so grateful they gave it to me ahead of time... Because they wanted me to be familiar with it and have time with it.”
• He practiced both alone and with co-star Lukita Maxwell (Alice); saw the speech as something Brian would have mentally rehearsed in anticipation.
  • Quote:
    "When you have something hard to say to somebody...I practice it in the car or in the shower or when I'm alone..."

8. Recognition and Awards

[16:33]

• Urie reflects on the Emmy nomination for himself and the show, highlighting its impact and the excitement of season renewals.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the power of comedy and drama:
  Michael Urie [02:27]:
  "If this show can maintain this level of comedy and drama at the same time, then it's something really special..."

• On mental health and therapy:
  Michael Urie [03:21]:
  "...this isn't just for people who think they're in trouble or who are depressed. Mental health issues maintenance is for all of us..."

• On playing Brian:
  Michael Urie [04:29]:
  "It's way more fun to play neuroses. And getting to follow Brian down this new path has been so fun..."

• On authentic friendships:
  Michael Urie [07:04]:
  "Am I the same guy? Exactly. And the truth is we're not. Are we still compatible as friends? Maybe. Probably..."

• On acting with Jason Segel:
  Michael Urie [07:41]:
  "...immediately, as soon as I saw him, he gave me a big bear hug and put me at ease..."

• On the challenge of a monologue:
  Michael Urie [13:46]:
  “And again, it was just like the greatest gift to be given. This speech that's funny and heartfelt and high octane. I couldn't, I'm so grateful for it.”

• Meta-radio moment:
  Michael Urie [13:31]:
  "Can't believe you just heard me say ass to ass on public radio." Alison Stewart:
  "It's for the art. It's for the art."

Important Timestamps

• [02:27] – Why Michael Urie wanted the role in Shrinking, on comedy and drama balance
• [03:14] – Urie discusses seeking therapy and the show’s impact on mental health dialogue
• [04:29] – Character summary of Brian, his journey, and evolution
• [07:41] – On working with Jason Segel and on-screen chemistry
• [08:59] – How Urie visualizes Brian’s narcissism and helping Jimmy through grief
• [11:41 – 13:25] – Highlighted monologue: Brian telling Alice about meeting Lewis
• [13:35] – Behind the scenes: preparing for and rehearsing the monologue
• [16:33] – Closing reflections and Emmy nomination

Tone and Style

The conversation is warm, witty, and insightful—matching the show’s heart-and-humor approach. Urie’s openness, self-deprecation, and affection for his character infuse the interview, while Stewart’s questions foreground both the emotional resonance and cultural impact of Shrinking.

This summary provides an engaging overview and highlights, allowing listeners unfamiliar with the episode to appreciate its depth and flavor.