Shifting Gears Showrunner Reveals Key Character Introduction and Teases “Conflictual Relationship” with Tim Allen’s Matt

Warning: SPOILERS for the pilot episode of Shifting Gears.

Overview of Shifting Gears

On January 8, ABC launched Shifting Gears, with new episodes premiering every Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET. The series, featuring the iconic Tim Allen as a “stubborn, widowed classic car restoration shop owner,”promises an engaging storyline. The official synopsis hints that “when Matt’s estranged daughter and her children come to live with him, the real restoration begins.”

Cast Highlights

Alongside Tim Allen, the show boasts a talented ensemble cast including:

Kat Dennings as Riley
Old William Scott of Gabriel
Daryl “Chill”Mitchell as Stitch
Maxwell Simkins as Carter
Barrett Margolis as Georgia

The pilot features an emotionally charged scene where Matt and Riley connect over their shared loss, setting the tone for their evolving father-daughter relationship as they strive for a compromise and collaboration.

Insights from Showrunner Michelle Nader

In a recent interview with ScreenRant, showrunner Michelle Nader shared her motivations for working on Shifting Gears, her experience with Tim Allen and Kat Dennings, and what lies ahead in the series.

Dennings’ Collaboration with Nader

Michelle Nader: “I love Kat Dennings. I am clearly destined to work with her. Upon watching the pilot, I noticed the undeniable chemistry between Tim Allen and Kat, which felt like the special ingredient necessary for a long-running show.”She emphasized that the dynamic between the two created a magical rapport that resonated as genuine.

Character Development

Michelle Nader: “Having collaborated with Kat before definitely shaped her character’s direction. Knowing her strengths helped us authentically connect with her character earlier in the season.”This synergy facilitated a smoother exploration of Riley’s character and journey.

The Emotional Core of the Show

Significant Emotional Moments

One of the standout scenes in the pilot showcased the profound bond between Matt and Riley, which Nader referred to as her “North Star.”She expressed a desire to replicate such authentic emotional moments throughout the series.

Michelle Nader: “I believe that these emotional shifts from comedy to deep emotion are crucial to the storytelling. Tim brings a remarkable depth to his character, exploring raw vulnerability and the intricate dynamics of loss and reconnection.”Her keen interest in balancing humor with poignant themes enhances the show’s narrative.

Future Developments

Riley’s Ex-Husband and the Family Dynamics

As viewers transition through the season, the complexities of Matt and Riley’s differing parenting styles will continue to shape their relationship. Nader sees this generational conflict as a core aspect of the show’s appeal.

Michelle Nader: “The fundamental tension arises from their contrasting parenting philosophies, a relatable issue for many families today. The journey toward reconciliation and finding common ground is particularly engaging.”

Introducing Jimmy: Anticipated Family Drama

Fans can expect to meet Riley’s ex-husband, Jimmy, who will add another layer of conflict and humor to the series.

Michelle Nader: “Jimmy’s character enters with an antagonistic relationship with Matt that fuels comedic tension. Despite his challenging nature, Lucas Neff portrayed him remarkably well, allowing for genuine, emotional encounters.”This character dynamic promises to add depth to the family narrative.

About Shifting Gears

Created by: Mike Scully and Julie Thacker-Scully

Shifting Gears features a combination of nostalgia and contemporary storytelling, led by Tim Allen as Matt, with a focus on family restoration against a backdrop of classic car culture. Other cast members include Daryl “Chill” Mitchell, Seann William Scott, Maxwell Simkins, and Barrett Margolis.

Catch Shifting Gears every Wednesday at 8 p.m. on ABC!

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