Summary
ABC’s hit sitcom Shifting Gears is revving up for Season 2, and casting calls are expected soon. The comedy, led by Tim Allen and Kat Dennings, struck gold with its January 2025 premiere, becoming ABC’s most-watched streaming debut in years with over 17 million viewers across platforms in its first week. With Season 2 set to premiere on October 1, 2025, new opportunities are opening for actors hoping to join this high-profile project.
About Shifting Gears
Created by Julie Thacker Scully and Mike Scully, Shifting Gears centers on Matt Parker (Tim Allen), a stubborn widower and classic car restoration shop owner. When his estranged daughter Riley (Kat Dennings) moves back in with her kids, chaos and comedy collide. The show blends family tensions, generational clashes, and Allen’s trademark sitcom humor with a modern twist.
Despite mixed critic reviews, the show’s impressive streaming numbers and loyal audience ensured a quick renewal. ABC even expanded the episode order for Season 2, proof that the network is betting big on this series.
Cast
The main cast includes:
- Tim Allen as Matt Parker
- Kat Dennings as Riley Parker
- Seann William Scott as Gabriel
- Daryl “Chill” Mitchell as Stitch
- Maxwell Simkins as Carter
- Barrett Margolis as Georgia
Guest stars in Season 2 include Patricia Richardson, Richard Karn, Debbe Dunning, Lilly Singh, and Nancy Travis.
Production
Filmed at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California, Shifting Gears brings together a powerhouse production team. Showrunner Michelle Nader leads alongside executive producers Tim Allen, Marty Adelstein, Becky Clements, Richard Baker, and John Pasquin.
The series mixes old-school sitcom charm with modern streaming strategies, making it a high-visibility project for anyone who lands a role. Casting directors Juel Bestrop, Brett Benner, and Debby Romano are expected to spearhead the process for Season 2.
How to Get Cast in Shifting Gears
If you want to land a role in Shifting Gears, here’s how to get started:
- Stay Updated on Casting Calls: Casting for network comedies like this often goes through major casting directors and platforms. Keep an eye on Project Casting for open calls and background roles.
- Prepare for Sitcom Auditions: Since Shifting Gears thrives on comedic timing and family chemistry, practice fast-paced dialogue delivery and situational humor.
- Highlight Family-Friendly Credits: Experience in sitcoms, multi-cam projects, or family-centered stories will stand out.
- Look for Background Roles First: Many productions hire extras and background actors before filling guest star spots. These roles can be a strong entry point.
- Work with an Agent: Because ABC comedies often use established casting channels, having agency representation increases your chances.
Why Shifting Gears Is Worth It
The show isn’t just another sitcom — it’s positioned as ABC’s next big family comedy, with the nostalgia of Tim Allen’s legacy combined with Kat Dennings’ millennial appeal. For aspiring actors, joining this cast means exposure on a major network and across streaming platforms.
Ready to Join the Cast?
Casting for Shifting Gears Season 2 is gearing up. Stay ahead by checking Project Casting daily for audition notices, extras opportunities, and insider production updates.
Your next big break might just be one audition away.