ABC’s Comedy Slate Shakes Up: Burrell Project Ditched, “Shifting Gears” Overhauls Cast and Crew

Network Faces Challenges in Building Comedy Lineup as “Forgive and Forget” Gets Axed and “Shifting Gears” Undergoes Major Changes

ABC’s comedy development is facing some turbulence.** The network has decided not to move forward with the Ty Burrell-led multi-cam pilot, “Forgive and Forget.” The project, which centered around Burrell’s character reconnecting with his adult son after an unexpected diagnosis, was ordered to pilot in March but failed to secure a series order.

Burrell, best known for his Emmy-winning role in “Modern Family,” was poised to return to the network, but this setback leaves a gap in ABC’s comedy lineup. The network is already facing challenges in the genre, with a limited number of scripted comedies on its roster. The hit single-cam “Abbott Elementary” returns for its fourth season in October, while “The Conners” is set to conclude its run with a seventh and final season midseason.

Meanwhile, another ABC comedy, “Shifting Gears” starring Tim Allen and Kat Dennings, is undergoing significant changes. The series, about a widowed car restoration shop owner and his estranged daughter, has seen the departure of original writers and executive producers Mike and Julie Thacker Scully. The search is on for a new showrunner, and the role of Nick will be recast.

Despite these challenges, ABC remains committed to the comedy genre. With “Shifting Gears” moving forward and the potential for new projects in development, the network hopes to bolster its comedy slate and capture audiences.