The multi-camera comedy Shifting Gears, which follows a widowed father (Tim Allen) who welcomes his daughter (Kat Dennings) and her children into his home, wrapped up its first season on March 19. In an interview, Dennings shared insights into her collaboration with sitcom veteran Tim Allen, her return to the multi-cam format, and her thoughts on the show’s future.
A Response to the “Red State Show” Label
When asked about Shifting Gears being labeled as a “red state show”, Dennings rejected the notion. “I can understand why, because there’s a conservative viewpoint from Tim’s character, but I think the fun of the show is the dynamic between Tim’s character and my character,” she explained. “They have completely opposing viewpoints, and the comedy comes from how they navigate their differences in their relationship.”
Dennings emphasized that the show centers on the humor that arises when family members with opposing beliefs share a household. She noted that Tim Allen, despite his own conservative views, fosters a respectful, professional environment on set, which helps maintain a comfortable atmosphere for the entire cast and crew.
Returning to the Multi-Cam Format
Dennings, who had not worked on a multi-cam sitcom since 2 Broke Girls ended, reflected on her return to the format. “It’s been really fun and kind of a throwback,” she said. “I hadn’t done a sitcom for so many years, but now that I’m older, I really enjoy it. I found myself really missing it. This has been a nice and sweet return to that.”
The Unresolved Ending of 2 Broke Girls
Speaking about her previous show 2 Broke Girls, Dennings acknowledged the disappointment of the series ending without closure. “We were so sad because we did not get to resolve it,” she said, referencing the show’s cliffhanger ending. However, she remained optimistic about the possibility of a revival. “Who knows? Maybe one day we’ll do a Will & Grace and bring it back,” she added, humorously imagining a future reunion where they would be “two 60-year-olds” in a time jump scenario.
Working with Tim Allen
Dennings was pleasantly surprised by Tim Allen’s supportive and caring nature. “He’s been so open and accepting,” she said, praising Allen for making the work environment feel positive. “He loves making sitcoms, and it’s really fun to watch someone be in their element like that.”
She also noted the loyalty of the crew, many of whom have worked with Allen for years, some even from his Home Improvement days. This continuity added to the family-like atmosphere on set.
“The audience is really something,” Dennings shared. “They’re there to see Tim, and they’re so raucous. They have to turn down the volume of the audience in the edits because they’re screaming and laughing. It’s almost like a sporting event.”
Season One Finale and the Cliffhanger
The season finale of Shifting Gears ended on a cliffhanger, with Sean William Scott’s character confessing his feelings to Dennings’ character, Riley. Dennings revealed that while the cast is eagerly awaiting news about a second season, she remains cautious about the show’s future. “I’m a very negative person, so I never expect anything to happen,” she admitted.
A Surprising Twist in Riley’s Storyline
Reflecting on the finale, Dennings explained the character arc that led Riley to seek a divorce. “In the finale, she finally realizes that they’ve both grown apart. She’s a completely different person now, and she wants different things.” The character of Jimmy (played by Lucas Neff) was not turned into a villain, as the writers kept him sweet and relatable, showing why Riley had fallen for him in the first place.
Could Riley Move Out?
With the conceit of the show revolving around Riley, a 34-year-old woman, living with her father, Dennings entertained the idea of the series continuing for multiple seasons. “I think the beauty of this is that I can conceive it going either way. She might stay for five seasons or maybe she moves out in season three. Who knows?” she said.
Looking ahead, Dennings teased the potential for new dynamics in future seasons, including the introduction of Riley’s brother Sam, who is in the military and could bring a new layer to the family drama. “There could be unlimited ways to go with this, and I really hope we get a season two.”
Conclusion
As the show ends its first season, Shifting Gears leaves viewers with a cliffhanger and the promise of more family dynamics and comedic moments. Dennings’ excitement for the show’s future is palpable, and while she remains cautious, she’s hopeful that the series will continue to explore the complex, often humorous relationships that define family life.
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