Shifting Gears finally casts a key character who has been missing so far from the series. The ABC sitcom stars Tim Allen in the role of Matt Parker, a widowed and stubborn man who owns an automobile restoration shop. His life is upended when his estranged daughter, Riley Parker (Kat Dennings), and her children suddenly move in with him.

Now, Deadline reports that season 2 has cast Matt’s son and Riley’s brother, Sam Parker, for a guest-starring role later in season 2. He will be played by Luke Macfarlane, who is a series regular in Apple TV’s Platonic and voiced Rick in Prime Video’s hit animated series Invincible.

Sam has been mentioned on multiple occasions throughout Shifting Gears, including that he is a Navy hero, but he has not made any appearances during season 1 or in the first half of season 2. The show will go on a month-long hiatus after season 2, episode 8 airs on December 10, which means Sam will make his debut in the back half of the season released in 2026.

Bringing in Sam creates an opportunity to reveal more about the Parker family, not only in the present, but in the past as well. After all the work Matt and Riley have put into repairing their relationship, old wounds have the potential to be reopened with Sam back in their lives, even if it’s only for an episode or two.

In addition to Sam’s dynamic with his father and sister after a long absence, there is the matter of him being an uncle to Riley’s children, Carter (Maxwell Simpkins) and Georgia (Barrett Margolis) to consider. Matt and Riley have each taught Carter and Georgia important lessons, and now it is Sam’s turn to do the same as their uncle.

Sam may also cross paths with the show’s series regulars outside the Parker family, Gabriel (Sean William Scott) and Daryl “Chlll” Mitchell, both of whom work at Matt’s automobile restoration shop.

Since he is a guest star, Macfarlane will not become a permanent fixture in Shifting Gears‘ cast in season 2. That being said, there is a possibility of Sam returning for more ]episodes, especially if the sitcom is renewed for a third season.

Despite having strong viewership, reviews for Shifting Gears have been largely negative. The series holds a 47% critical score on Rotten Tomatoes, with many reviews arguing that despite the talent of Allen and Dennings, the writing is lackluster.