Shifting Gears Trailer Previews A Superstar’s TV Return With New Family Sitcom

The first official trailer for ABC’s Shifting Gears previews Tim Allen’s newest family sitcom. The multi-cam comedy stars Allen as Matt, a widowed, stubborn owner of a classic car restoration shop whose life is upended when his estranged daughter Riley (Kat Dennings) and her two kids move in with him. Shifting Gears‘ cast also includes American Pie‘s Seann William Scott, Daryl Mitchell, Maxwell Simkins, and Barrett Margolis. The sitcom will premiere on January 8, 2025, at 8/7c on ABC before streaming the next day on Hulu.
Today, ABC dropped the first official trailer for Shifting Gears. In the trailer, Matt’s old-school values collide with Riley’s modern parenting style with lighthearted friction. Dennings, known for her comedic roles in 2 Broke Girls and Dollface, shines alongside Allen as the two display a mix of heartfelt moments and laugh-out-loud comedy in the working-class suburbs of Detroit. Watch the trailer below:
What Shifting Gears’ New Trailer Means
A Glimpse At ABC’s Next Family Sitcom Hit
The release of Shifting Gears‘ official trailer means ABC is preparing for the family sitcom’s premiere next month. As a comedy that balances generational clashes with family reconciliation, Shifting Gears seems like a promising new addition to ABC’s family show lineup. Allen’s character, Matt, grapples with the sudden responsibilities of fatherhood and being a grandparent after years of living alone. Dennings’ Riley brings a fresh dynamic to the scene as she navigates rebuilding her relationship with her father as a young parent of two kids and her history as a misbehaving teen.
The trailer teases plenty of comedic moments, from Matt playing video games with his new grandkids to Riley’s witty comebacks and attempts at family bonding. Shifting Gears‘ premise signals a thematic return to Allen’s roots in family-driven television, such as Last Man Standing and Home Improvement. With Allen and Dennings leading the charge, supported by a strong ensemble and new guest stars, Shifting Gears aims to deliver a relatable story for multi-generational families.
Our Take On Shifting Gears’ First Official Trailer
A Promising Blend of Humor and Heart in Tim Allen’s Return

Shifting Gears marks a promising return for Tim Allen. The new trailer effectively sets the stage for what looks to be a comedic sitcom with touching moments of growth and connection for an unconventional family. Dennings brings an exciting new energy that complements Allen’s veteran presence well. ABC’s decision to debut Shifting Gears in January positions it as a potential midseason hit, bridging Allen’s established fanbase and comedic style with audiences drawn to Dennings’ offbeat wit and sharp tongue.
Source: ABC