Tim Allen Talks Family, Comedy, and Classic Cars in Season 2 of Shifting Gears
Tim Allen is revving up for another season of laughs, legacy, and horsepower in ABC’s hit sitcom Shifting Gears. In a recent interview on Good Morning America, the veteran actor and comedian gave fans a sneak peek into what’s coming next—and it’s more than just chrome and crankshafts.

Allen returns as Matt, a gruff but lovable car restorer who finds himself navigating the unpredictable terrain of family life. Season 2 picks up with Matt still adjusting to living with his daughter and granddaughter, a dynamic that Allen says brings “chaos, heart, and a lot of unexpected comedy.”
“It’s about family, it’s about the messiness of relationships,” Allen shared. “And yes, it’s still about the cars—but the people are what drive the story.”
A Nostalgic Reunion
One of the biggest surprises this season is the return of Nancy Travis, Allen’s longtime co-star from Last Man Standing. Travis guest stars in an episode that fans are already calling a mini-reunion. Allen teased that her appearance includes a subtle nod to their shared sitcom past.
“There’s a wink in the episode where you know that there’s a past,” Allen said with a smile, hinting at an inside joke that longtime viewers will appreciate.
Their on-screen chemistry remains as sharp as ever, and Allen admitted that working with Travis again felt “like slipping into a comfortable pair of boots.”
More Than Just a Sitcom
While Shifting Gears is packed with humor, Allen emphasized that the show also explores deeper themes—especially the challenges of parenting, generational gaps, and personal growth. Matt’s journey isn’t just about fixing cars; it’s about fixing relationships, too.
Allen, who’s known for blending comedy with heartfelt storytelling, said that Season 2 will lean even more into the emotional core of the characters.
“We’re not afraid to get real,” he said. “There are moments that will make you laugh, and moments that might make you tear up a little.”
What’s Under the Hood
Of course, Shifting Gears wouldn’t be complete without its signature love for classic cars. Allen, a real-life car enthusiast, revealed that this season features even more vintage vehicles, restoration projects, and garage banter.
Behind the scenes, Allen is deeply involved in the automotive details, ensuring that the show stays authentic to gearheads and casual viewers alike.
“We’ve got some beautiful machines this season,” he said. “But the real engine of the show is the cast.”
Looking Ahead
With Season 2 set to premiere this fall on ABC, fans can expect a blend of nostalgia, fresh storylines, and the kind of humor that only Tim Allen can deliver. Whether you’re tuning in for the cars, the comedy, or the family drama, Shifting Gears promises to take viewers on a ride worth watching.
“It’s a show about second chances,” Allen said. “And sometimes, shifting gears is exactly what you need to move forward.”
