Tim Allen and Kat Dennings Star in Heartwarming Sitcom ‘Shifting Gears’

Los Angeles, CA – Tim Allen and Kat Dennings star as father and daughter in the new ABC sitcom ‘Shifting Gears,’ which premiered its second season on October 1, 2025. The show follows Matt Parker, a widower managing his classic auto restoration shop while reconnecting with his estranged daughter, Riley Parker, who brings her two children along for the journey.

In ‘Shifting Gears,’ Matt Parker struggles with the grief of losing his wife while Riley faces challenges after her divorce. As they navigate their complicated family dynamics, the series highlights both their personal growth and the support from Matt’s employees, Stitch and Gabriel.

Allen is no stranger to family life; in real life, he is a father of two daughters. Katherine is from his first marriage to Laura Deibel, and Elizabeth was born from his second marriage to actress Jane Hajduk. While Katherine remains private, Elizabeth has begun acting, appearing in productions like ‘The Third Act’ and ‘The Santa Clauses.’

Kat Dennings, who portrays the single mom Riley, is also a stepmom in her real life. She married musician Andrew W.K. in November 2023, and while they haven’t publicly disclosed details about his children from a previous relationship, Dennings expressed her love for W.K., calling him “the kindest person.”

The ensemble cast includes Cynthia Quiles as Matt’s love interest and Lucas Neff as Riley’s ex-husband. Daryl Chill Mitchell, who plays Stitch, shares a close bond with his three adult children. Meanwhile, Jenna Elfman, who plays Eve, has two sons with her husband Bodhi Elfman, showcasing the importance of family in both the show and real life.

As the show continues to capture audience hearts with its humorous yet poignant portrayal of family, Allen emphasizes the collaborative effort behind the scenes, stating, “Being an actor is a wonderful craft, but we are just part of a teamwork experience.”

‘Shifting Gears’ offers a delightful mix of comedy and relatable family moments, creating a show that resonates with viewers dealing with their familial dynamics.