Jenna Elfman is making a triumphant return to ABC, revisiting her sitcom origins with a vengeance. The esteemed star of Dharma & Greg and Imaginary Mary is poised to reunite with Tim Allen on the upcoming ABC comedy Shifting Gears, as reported by our affiliate outlet, Deadline. In this half-hour laughter-filled series, Allen reprises his seasoned role as Matt, described in the official synopsis as "the hardheaded, widowed proprietor of Parker Customs, a haven for restoring vintage automobiles." The dramatic twist? When Matt's estranged daughter, masterfully portrayed by Kat Dennings of 2 Broke Girls fame, along with her young ones, relocate into his abode, the true restoration—of both relationships and hearts—takes center stage.
According to Deadline, Elfman will bring to life Eve Drake, a vivacious choreographer and the dynamic owner of a dance studio that happens to be situated directly opposite Parker Customs. (Intriguing, isn't it? Could she be weaving her magic as Allen's romantic counterpart?)
Allen, Dennings, and Elfman are joined by an ensemble cast that includes Seann William Scott ("American Pie") as Gabriel, a beloved family friend who works alongside Matt at the shop; Daryl "Chill" Mitchell ("NCIS: New Orleans") as Stitch, a former Marine and fellow mechanic with a rich backstory; and the talented young actors Maxwell Simkins ("The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers") and the newcomer Barrett Margolis, who co-star as Dennings' television children, Carter and Georgia. As previously announced, Michelle Nader, who spearheaded the last two series featuring Dennings — "2 Broke Girls" on CBS and "Dollface" on Hulu — will reprise her role as showrunner for "Shifting Gears." The highly anticipated first season will debut on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 8/7c, setting the stage for the midseason return of "Abbott Elementary" (currently airing at 8:30 pm; see ABC's comprehensive winter schedule here).
Since her days on "Dharma & Greg," Elfman has starred in comedies like "Accidentally on Purpose" and "Imaginary Mary," and co-starred for five seasons on AMC's "Fear the Walking Dead." Following a memorable guest appearance on ABC's "Will Trent" earlier this year, she will next be featured in Season 3 of the acclaimed AMC drama "Dark Winds," continuing her impressive streak of captivating performances.
