Why did Tim Allen's character on Shifting Gears avoid dating?

The showrunner aimed for authenticity, believing Tim Allen's character, Matt, would not be comfortable dating many women, thus limiting his dating life.

How did Matt and Eve get back together on Shifting Gears?

After a split attributed to long distance, Matt and Eve had a chance encounter that inspired them to reunite and embark on a journey together.

Is Shifting Gears the first Tim Allen sitcom with a single character?

Yes, the ABC series, which premiered in January 2025, is the first time Tim Allen has starred on a sitcom where his character isn't married at the start.

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Shifting Gears: Tim Allen's Character's Love Life Path

5 Feb

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Summary

Tim Allen's character avoided extensive dating before his reunion.
Showrunner aimed for authenticity in Matt's romantic decisions.
Matt and Eve reunited after a long-distance challenge.

Shifting Gears: Tim Allen's Character's Love Life Path

The creators of the ABC sitcom Shifting Gears intentionally steered Tim Allen's character, Matt, away from extensive dating following his split from Eve. Showrunner Michelle Nader explained that the character's authenticity was paramount, and the idea of him dating numerous women did not align with his persona.

Instead of focusing on a broad dating scene, the series explored Matt's love life in a manner that felt true to his character. A disastrous date with Angela Kinsey's character, Lynn, highlighted this approach. Ultimately, a chance encounter with Eve led to their reunion, fulfilling the creative team's vision for his primary onscreen love interest.

Nader confirmed that bringing Jenna Elfman back as Eve was always the plan. The relationship between Matt and Eve experienced challenges, including a long-distance separation that prompted Matt to initially question its viability. However, they successfully navigated these obstacles and reunited in the season finale, choosing to join each other on the road for Eve's career.