Scheduled to star in and executive produce the ABC pilot, titled “Shifting Gears,” Mr. Allen is set to portray Matt, a stubborn widower and owner of a classic car restoration shop. The narrative unfolds when Matt’s estranged daughter and her teenage children move in, sparking a journey of familial restoration, as described in the project overview. The series will be written by Mike Scully and Julie Thacker Scully, who will executive produce as well. If it gets the green light, the show will air during the 2024-25 season.
Mr. Scully, probably best known for his work on “The Simpsons,” served as executive producer and show runner for four seasons of the animated comedy series. His credits also extend to producing “The Simpsons Movie” in 2007. Additionally, he has lent his talents as a writer-producer to hit series such as “Everybody Loves Raymond,” “The Carmichael Show,” and “Parks and Recreation.”
The equally accomplished Ms. Thacker Scully has made significant contributions as a writer and co-executive producer on “The Simpsons,” as well as shows like “Fuller House” and the animated series adaptation of “Napoleon Dynamite,” which she co-developed. Collaborating with Mr. Scully, she co-created shows like “Complete Savages” for ABC, featuring Keith Carradine and Erik Von Detten, and “The Pitts” for Fox, which showcased an early starring role for Lizzy Caplan of “Mean Girls” fame. Both Mr. Scully and Ms. Thacker Scully have directed in addition to their writing and producing credits.
Mr. Allen’s return to ABC marks a significant point in his career, notably after his successful stint on the network with “Last Man Standing” from 2011 to 2017. Despite the show’s strong ratings, it was abruptly canceled by ABC in 2017, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter, only to be revived by Fox in 2018, where it ran until 2021.
Before his tenure on “Last Man Standing,” Mr. Allen gained prominence on ABC with his role as Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor in the beloved sitcom “Home Improvement,” which aired from 1991 to 1999. The show revolved around the life of Tim Taylor, a television show host navigating the challenges of raising three mischievous boys with the support of his wife and eccentric neighbor.
The Epoch Times reached out to ABC for a statement.