Shifting Gears

Critical reaction to Shifting Gears is decidedly mixed, with several reviewers noting that the ABC sitcom is designed almost exclusively for fans of Tim Allen's established brand of television comedy. Outlets such as USA Today and ScreenRant observe that the show relies heavily on familiar multi-cam tropes and Allen's usual brand of conservative masculinity, making it an easy sell for his fanbase but unlikely to win over detractors.

Despite the formulaic setup, the core partnership between Tim Allen and Kat Dennings receives widespread appreciation. Outlets like RogerEbert.com and TVLine highlight their strong screen chemistry as an estranged father and daughter, finding genuine humor and emotional grounding whenever the two butt heads.

Negative critiques from the Boston Globe and Variety point out that the show's premiere feels choppy and struggles to fully justify its central estrangement premise. However, reviewers note that the series leaves room to grow as it further explores its supporting characters and family backstory.