Seann William Scott has been added to the cast of ABC’s new comedy series “Shifting Gears,” starring Tim Allen. The sitcom, slated to begin filming in November, centers on a widower named Matt who owns a classic car restoration shop. He must now live with his estranded daughter Riley and her two teenagers.
Scott will portray Gabriel, a family friend of Matt and Riley who also works in the restoration shop. This replaces the role of Nick, originally Matt’s son but later cut from the show. The multi-camera comedy hopes to blend workplace comedy with family drama as father and daughter reconcile under one roof.
Experts say Scott’s comedic talents could help balance Allen’s veteran style. Scott is best known for the “American Pie” movie franchise, and his role here marks a meaningful return to television. Kat Dennings co-stars as Riley, continuing her work from “2 Broke Girls.”
The show also features Daryl “Chill” Mitchell as Stitch. It introduces Maxwell Simkins and Barrett Margolis in other main roles. Michelle Nadler serves as showrunner.
With filming soon underway, viewers can expect “Shifting Gears” to debut later this season. Insiders note the success may depend on the on-screen rapport between Scott and Allen in the auto shop scenes. But the new cast and classic television format have sparked optimism about ABC’s latest family comedy.