The latest episode of Tim Allen’s sitcom Shifting Gears delivered a delightful surprise as Shark Tank’s Lori Greiner made a memorable guest appearance, complete with a playful flirtation with Allen’s character, Matt. This high-profile cameo, airing October 15, is just one highlight of an exciting second season packed with celebrity guests and deepening family dynamics, reaffirming the show’s unique blend of humor and heart.
Fans of classic sitcoms and entrepreneurial sagas alike were treated to a crossover event as Lori Greiner, the renowned “Queen of QVC” and Shark Tank investor, brought her signature charm to Tim Allen’s new ABC sitcom, Shifting Gears. During the Wednesday, October 15, episode, Greiner’s cameo sparked immediate buzz, particularly due to her direct and humorous interaction with Allen’s character, Matt.
The Flirtatious Cameo Heard ‘Round the Internet
Greiner’s appearance was orchestrated by Georgia (Barrett Margolis), who sought her help to promote mom Riley’s (Kat Dennings) new coffee cart. However, the scene quickly shifted focus when Greiner, 55, met Matt (Allen), 72. With a signature blend of business acumen and playful wit, Greiner quipped, “Now that is a daddy I might like to scrub,” while shaking Matt’s hand, as reported by Us Weekly. This bold line immediately caught the attention of both Matt and viewers, especially with Eve (Jenna Elfman) stepping in to introduce herself as Matt’s girlfriend, adding a layer of comedic tension.
This lighthearted moment is a testament to Greiner’s established public persona, often blending savvy business with a relatable, confident demeanor. Known for her role in the hit series Shark Tank, Greiner has built an empire as an inventor and entrepreneur, celebrated for identifying “hero” products and connecting with audiences on a personal level, a trait that clearly translated to her sitcom debut. Alux.com provides insights into her journey, highlighting her status as the “Queen of QVC” and her impact on aspiring entrepreneurs.
Exploring the Heart of ‘Shifting Gears’
Shifting Gears, which premiered in January 2025, centers on Matt, a car restoration shop owner, and his estranged daughter Riley. The series delves into their journey of living together and mending their relationship following the loss of their family matriarch. This poignant premise allows Tim Allen to portray a character, Matt, who he describes as being “much closer to [who I am].”
Allen shared with Us Weekly his personal connection to Matt’s character, noting, “I’ve been through grief in my life with losing my father.” He also emphasized Matt’s unique characterization, stating, “He’s not a ‘man’s man’ in that term, and he wasn’t trying to be anything but what he does.” This departure from some of his previous roles, like the iconic Tim ‘The Toolman’ Taylor from Home Improvement or Mike Baxter from Last Man Standing, offers a fresh perspective for audiences, exploring themes of vulnerability and familial repair.
A Stellar Lineup of Guest Stars and Cast Chemistry
The second season of Shifting Gears is proving to be a star-studded affair, with Lori Greiner joining a diverse list of new faces. Other notable guest stars include comedian Lilly Singh, Gabriel Iglesias, and baseball star Mookie Betts. Furthermore, the show has capitalized on Tim Allen’s legacy, welcoming back beloved Home Improvement alums Patricia Richardson, Debbe Dunning, and Richard Karn, creating moments of nostalgia and delight for long-time fans.
Beyond the guest stars, the core cast of Shifting Gears, including Seann William Scott, Daryl “Chill” Mitchell, Maxwell Simkins, and Barrett Margolis, contributes to the show’s dynamic. A standout is the palpable chemistry between Tim Allen and Kat Dennings. Dennings praised their “instant” connection to Us Weekly, attributing it in part to growing up watching Allen. She described their scenes, especially the arguments, as “so funny” and filled with “no fear” for either actor, allowing them to “absolutely go for it.”
Kat Dennings’ Dream Role
For Kat Dennings, the role of Riley was a dream come true. She recounted a “magical situation” where she described her ideal project to a friend—a sitcom, much like this exact scenario—only to receive the call for Shifting Gears the very next day. Dennings, a fan of Home Improvement from a young age, expressed immense excitement about playing Tim Allen’s daughter, feeling “very lucky” for the opportunity. Her enthusiasm and organic connection with Allen are clearly translating to engaging performances that resonate with viewers.
Shifting Gears continues to air on ABC Wednesdays at 8 p.m. ET, with episodes available for streaming the following day on Hulu. The show’s ability to weave compelling family narratives with comedic guest appearances like Lori Greiner’s, while also tapping into nostalgic reunions, positions it as a significant addition to the modern sitcom landscape, particularly for fans who appreciate character-driven humor and genuine emotional depth.
