ABC is welcoming back familiar faces as it gears up for the premiere of its new sitcom, 'Shifting Gears,' scheduled to debut on January 8, 2025. The show, which stars Tim Allen, marks a significant return to network television for the actor, showcasing his comedic talents alongside Jenna Elfman.
'Shifting Gears' is set against the backdrop of Parker Customs, a classic car restoration shop owned by Matt Parker, played by Allen. After experiencing the loss of his wife, Matt's life becomes tumultuous when his estranged daughter, Riley, portrayed by Kat Dennings, unexpectedly arrives at his doorstep. "She just shows up with her two kids, getting divorced, her life falling apart and needing to stay with him," Dennings explains, emphasizing the depth of the family’s struggles.
This show promises to explore the complex dynamics between Matt and Riley, as they navigate their differing beliefs and lifestyles. Elfman will appear as Eve Drake, the owner of the dance studio across the street, potentially adding another layer of complication to the family dynamic.
Tim Allen, reflecting on the series, described it as "a story about relationships can be repaired," illustrating the restoration theme central to both the characters and the cars they work on. Showrunner Michelle Nader, known for her work on '2 Broke Girls,' hopes to bring this relatable family narrative to life with humor and heart.
Joining the star-studded cast are Seann William Scott, who plays Gabriel, Matt's long-time family friend and co-worker at the shop, and Daryl “Chill” Mitchell as Stitch, another mechanic with Marine experience. The cast also includes young actors Maxwell Simkins and newcomer Barrett Margolis, who will portray Dennings' character's children.
While the show revolves around family, the production team is also focused on reviving the traditional multicamera sitcom style, which has seen declines due to the rise of streaming services. Nader, who describes the filming style as unique and collaborative, believes audiences are longing for the reinvention of this classic format, stating, "we hope to modernize it just a little bit. It’s so unlike any other way of making TV or film."
Scott is thrilled to be involved, expressing his enjoyment of this new challenge and the opportunity to create something meaningful with the ensemble. The actors echo the excitement, with Allen humorously remarking how sitcoms really come alive when experienced with a live audience.
Talking about their on-set experiences, Dennings noted, "It’s such a fun experience between the audience and the actors,” reinforcing the sense of community and interaction expected from this format. For many, including Allen, these elements create magic unique to sitcom production.
Besides the relatable storyline, the cast and crew share personal connections and mutual respect. Allen lauds Dennings, recognizing her talent as they both bring their characters to life, with the actor noting their shared birthday—a quirky coincidence underscoring their bond.
Fans of Allen's previous work may find nostalgic joys as he draws parallels to his past roles involving repair and restoration. Allen reflects on his own experiences, stating, "I’ve done a full circle... I’m kind of finishing, if you will, where I started," as he steps back onto familiar stages where many of his previous hits were crafted.
'Shifting Gears' not only explores familial relationships and personal growth but revitalizes the genre of the multicamera sitcom, offering audiences genuine laughs and heartfelt moments when it premieres on ABC this January.