Tim Allen’s ‘Shifting Gears’ is the nostalgic comedy fans didn’t know they needed

SHIFTING GEARS - ÒRestorationÓ - Matt, the widowed owner of a classic car restoration shop, is confronted with his most unexpected and challenging project yet when his estranged daughter, Riley, and her adolescent children come crashing back into his life. WEDNESDAY, JAN. 8 (8:00-8:30 p.m. EST) on ABC. 
TIM ALLEN
SHIFTING GEARS - ÒRestorationÓ - Matt, the widowed owner of a classic car restoration shop, is confronted with his most unexpected and challenging project yet when his estranged daughter, Riley, and her adolescent children come crashing back into his life. WEDNESDAY, JAN. 8 (8:00-8:30 p.m. EST) on ABC. TIM ALLEN

Tim Allen is a household name in comedy, and many of us have grown up with his many characters. Now, he is back with Shifting Gears, a show that promises the same charm, humor, and relatability that fans have come to love but with a modern twist.

What’s the show about?

In his latest venture, Tim Allen portrays Matt a retired mechanic who finds himself reluctantly drawn back into the world of fixing things, which now includes family. It’s a blend of Allen’s signature wit and a fresh perspective on contemporary family dynamics.

It focuses on the challenges of reconnecting with friends and family along with personal growth and managing generational differences, all while delivering plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

Why you should watch it

If you are a fan of Home Improvement and Last Man Standing, you will likely feel right at home as the show takes on a very similar feeling. Tim Allen is visibly a little older, but this could easily be a continuation of either show. That said, the new supporting characters all do a fantastic job in their roles.

Kat Dennings, who you might remember from Marvel’s Thor and Wanda Vision, plays Matt’s daughter Riley, who moves back home with her two children. It’s always nice to see her in a comedic role, and she does a great job with Tim Allen.

Maxwell Simkins also does a great job in the first episode as Carter, Riley’s teenage son, who has some relatable mishaps as he struggles to connect with Matt.

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FAQ

When did “Shifting Gears” premiere?

The series premiered on ABC on January 8, 2025, with new episodes airing weekly, with each episode available to stream on Hulu the following day.

Who are the main cast members?

  • Tim Allen as Matt Parker
  • Kat Dennings as Riley
  • Seann William Scott as Gabriel
  • Daryl “Chill” Mitchell as Stitch
  • Maxwell Simkins as Carter
  • Barrett Margolis as Georgia

How many episodes are in the first season?

The first season of Shifting Gears reportedly includes 10 episodes, each running for approximately 22 minutes, following the traditional sitcom format.

Is the show family-friendly?

Yes, Shifting Gears maintains a family-friendly tone, with humor that appeals to audiences of all ages. It balances laughs with heartfelt moments, making it an ideal pick for family viewing.

Will there be any guest stars?

The show promises a lineup of exciting guest stars throughout the season. While he didn’t mention any names, Tim Allen hinted in interviews that fans can expect appearances from actors he’s worked with in the past, sparking speculation about cameos from Home Improvement and Last Man Standing.

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