Shifting Gears: Tim Allen Joins a Grief Group Before His Date with Jenna Elfman

Shifting Gears delves into Tim Allen‘s character Matt’s personal journey as he continues to navigate the grief of losing his ex-wife before going on a date with Jenna Elfman’s Eve.

The official synopsis reveals that the season two premiere, airing on October 1, follows Matt as he “grapples with his emotions for” Eve before Charlotte (Nancy Travis) “persuades him to attend a grief group.” In the meantime, Riley (Kat Dennings) faces her own dilemmas concerning her feelings for Gabe (Seann William Scott).

Fans of Home Improvement will be excited to know that Allen’s former co-stars Patricia Richardson, Richard Karn, and Debbe Dunning will make special guest appearances in the season two premiere. Although details about their roles are still under wraps, it has been suggested that the trio “arrives to support” Matt in “an unforeseen manner.”

The following episode, airing on October 8, features Matt and Eve on their “first date, where their expectations differ.” Meanwhile, Riley “makes friends with the mother of Georgia’s new companion while Carter mediates a dispute between Gabe and Stitch.” Guest appearances are set to include Los Angeles Dodger Mookie Betts and Lilly Singh.

In the season one finale, the budding romance between Riley and Gabe faced an obstacle when he refrained from making a move after her breakup. Instead, Eve and Matt shared a kiss.

“Watching them is quite intriguing,” showrunner Michelle Nader told Us Weekly earlier this month regarding the season two dynamics. “It’s fascinating to see their relationship evolve; it will shift into high gear — but expect some ups and downs.”

Elfman, 53, also expressed her enthusiasm about returning to the show.

“I’m thoroughly enjoying the show. I love collaborating with everyone involved. The showrunner is fantastic. It genuinely feels surreal because it’s so rewarding. I can’t wait for everyone to see it,” she shared. “I am genuinely impressed with this year’s writing. The characters are well-developed and the stories are genuinely hilarious. We often find ourselves laughing uncontrollably at work.”

Elfman added: “As a performer and someone in this industry, I’m truly amazed at the quality of comedy this season. This gives me immense excitement for our viewers at home, as I know families will have a wonderful time laughing together.”

Shifting Gears premieres on ABC Wednesday, October 1, at 8 p.m. ET, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu.