'Shifting Gears' Season 2: Which Stars Are Returning?
Tim Allen's sitcom, 'Shifting Gears', is returning for a second season on ABC, premiering October 1st, 2025. Fans are eager to know which cast members will be reprising their roles in this heartwarming series about a father and daughter reconnecting through a car restoration shop.
Returning Cast Members
The core cast of 'Shifting Gears' will be back for Season 2, continuing their character arcs and exploring new relationships.
- Tim Allen as Matt: The series revolves around Allen's character, a father reconnecting with his estranged daughter.
- Kat Dennings as Riley: Dennings returns as Matt's daughter, navigating her personal life and relationship with her father.
- Seann William Scott: Scott will be back, though he hopes to avoid more dancing scenes.
- Daryl “Chill” Mitchell as Stitch: Mitchell is confirmed to reprise his role as Stitch.
- Maxwell Simkins: Simkins will continue to portray Carter, Riley's son. The season will delve deeper into the family dynamics.
- Barrett Margolis
- Jenna Elfman as Eve Drake: Elfman will be back in her recurring role, with her relationship with Matt taking "high gear," according to showrunner Michelle Nader.
Possible Returns and New Faces
While some returns are confirmed, the fate of other characters remains uncertain, and the series welcomes new additions to the cast.
- Lucas Neff: Riley's ex-husband, Jimmy, might or might not be back after their divorce in Season 1.
- Nancy Travis as Charlotte: Allen’s former Last Man Standing costar will be reprising her role as Charlotte.
Home Improvement Reunion
Season 2 features exciting guest appearances from Allen’s former Home Improvement co-stars:
- Patricia Richardson
- Richard Karn
- Debbe Dunning
These guest stars will reportedly "offer support" to Allen's character.
New Additions
- Lilly Singh: Singh joins the show as Riley’s new mom friend.
- Mookie Betts: The baseball star will be playing himself in his scripted TV debut.
Jenna Elfman on Season 2
Jenna Elfman expressed her excitement for Season 2, stating that the show is "even better" than the first. She praised the writing and the comedic chemistry between the cast members, including Tim Allen and Kat Dennings. According to Elfman, the show is “so well-written and so genuinely funny”.
Tim Allen's Perspective
Tim Allen emphasized that his character in 'Shifting Gears' is closer to who he is in real life, drawing from his experiences and interests. He noted that the show explores themes of grief and family in a relatable way.
“So this new guy now, Matt Parker, he’s more of what I really am,” Allen told USA Today. “I was a design and philosophy student like he is. Now, he’s curmudgeonly because he’s been through grief, and I lost my father as a young kid, so I get that. I also have a car shop. So he’s the most relatable to the stand-up I’ve been doing for years and truly an evolution of all these characters.”
What to Expect in Season 2
Season 2 promises to delve deeper into the characters' relationships, explore new dynamics, and continue the heartwarming story that captivated audiences in the first season. Tune in on October 1st to see what's in store for Matt, Riley, and the rest of the crew at the car restoration shop.
Season 1 Review
Movieguide® gave Season 1, episode 4 a positive review, highlighting the show’s strong biblical values and emphasis on family. The review mentioned a cross prominently featured in the background, and the show also presents themes of healing and growth.
