by Get Ready to Laugh: Shane Gillis’s “Tires” Takes Over Netflix!
Get ready to rev your engines for a deep dive into one of Netflix’s most talked-about comedy series: Shane Gillis’s “Tires”. What started as a passion project, born from the unique comedic mind of co-creator and star Shane Gillis, has quickly become a surprising Netflix hit on the global streaming stage. Set in the hilariously struggling Valley Forge auto repair shop, “Tires” follows the antics of mechanic Shane and his well-meaning but often overwhelmed cousin, manager Will. After a short but impactful first season, “Tires” Season 2 is bigger and better, boasting more episodes and a fantastic lineup of new and returning faces. Join us as we explore the show’s journey, meet its unforgettable Tires cast, unpack its distinct blue-collar humor, and see how it’s shaping the future of unfiltered comedy and streaming success.
From Garage Project to Global Hit: The “Tires” Journey
The Unexpected Rise: How “Tires” Hit the Big Time
Believe it or not, “Tires” Netflix didn’t start with a massive studio budget. This hilarious workplace comedy began as a self-funded passion project by Shane Gillis, Steve Gerben, and John McKeever. This “bet on yourself” approach gave them total creative freedom, allowing them to craft a show that truly reflected their unique comedic style. Netflix later acquired the series for an estimated five million dollars, a move that highlights a fascinating trend in streaming: platforms are now looking to creators who’ve already built a loyal fanbase online, like Gillis with his popular “Gilly and Keeves” sketches and podcasts. It’s a smart strategy that reduces risk for Netflix, tapping directly into audiences hungry for fresh, authentic humor.
Why Season 1 Became a Cult Favorite (and a Streaming Powerhouse)
When “Tires” Season 1 dropped on Netflix on May 23, 2024, with just six episodes, it quickly became a sensation. It shot up to No. 2 on Luminate’s streaming charts, racking up an incredible 447.8 million minutes watched (that’s about 3.3 million views!) in its second week – almost catching up to “Bridgerton” Season 3! The show’s success highlighted a fascinating divide: critics gave it mixed reviews (a Metascore of 44), often calling the humor “juvenile” or “uneven”.
But audiences? They absolutely loved it, giving it a “generally favorable” user score of 7.2, with many praising it as “simple, funny, not consumed by woke ideology,” and “actually funny”. This shows Netflix is smart: they’re listening to what viewers really want, especially those looking for unfiltered comedy that feels fresh and authentic, even if it doesn’t fit traditional critical molds. In fact, Netflix renewed “Tires” for Season 2 before the first season’s reviews were even fully in, proving their confidence in its audience appeal.
Doubling Down on Laughs: What to Expect from Season 2
Riding high on its unexpected success, “Tires” Season 2 is a game-changer! The show has tripled its length to a whopping 12 episodes, all released on Netflix on June 5, 2025. This isn’t just more episodes; it’s a sign of Netflix’s huge confidence and investment. Get ready for an “actual plot,” a deeper dive into character stories, and a renewed focus on drama, thanks to a full writing staff. This means “Tires” is evolving from a quick-hit sketch-style comedy into a more robust sitcom with ongoing storylines. The goal? To keep that authentic blue-collar humor while adding layers that might just broaden its appeal even further, without losing the loyal fans who loved Season 1.
Table 1: “Tires” Season Comparison: Key Metrics & Improvements
Meet the Crew: The Hilarious Heart of Valley Forge
Shane Gillis as Shane: The Prankster with a Purpose (Sort Of)
At the heart of the Valley Forge auto shop is Shane, played by the one and only Shane Gillis. His character is the ultimate prank-loving mechanic, always ready with a joke and a knack for playfully messing with his colleagues. Shane’s defining trait? He simply refuses to take work or career opportunities seriously.
Born on December 11, 1987, in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, Shane Gillis is a powerhouse in the comedy world: a celebrated stand-up, podcaster, and actor. His rise to fame accelerated after winning the “Philly’s Funniest” in 2016. You might know him from his hugely popular “Matt and Shane’s Secret Podcast” or the hilarious “Gilly and Keeves” sketch series. While his career has seen its share of headlines – including a brief, controversial stint with Saturday Night Live in 2019 that led to his removal, only for him to return and host SNL twice – Gillis’s resilience and authentic, unfiltered comedy have made “Tires” a symbol of his unique brand. The character “Shane” is almost an extension of Gillis himself, blurring the lines between actor and persona, which is a huge part of the show’s genuine appeal.
Steve Gerben as Will: The Long-Suffering Manager
Steve Gerben shines as Will, the earnest yet perpetually stressed manager of Valley Forge. Will’s constant struggle to save the family business, often thwarted by Shane’s chaotic energy, forms the comedic backbone of the series. Gerben’s portrayal of Will as the “straight man” to Shane’s “alpha dog” antics is pure comedic gold, creating a dynamic that drives much of the show’s hilarious conflict. You might recognize Gerben from his earlier collaborations with Shane Gillis and John McKeever, including “Delco Proper” and “Gilly and Keeves”. Fun fact: Steve isn’t just acting; he’s also a writer and executive producer on “Tires”, showing his deep understanding of the show’s unique comedic rhythm.
The Unforgettable Valley Forge Crew: More Laughs, More Chaos
The heart of “Tires” truly lies in its ensemble cast, many of whom are long-time collaborators of Shane Gillis, bringing an undeniable, natural comedic chemistry to the screen.
- Chris O’Connor as Cal: Back as the mechanic Cal, Chris is a familiar face from “Gilly and Keeves” and also a writer on “Tires”. He even co-hosts the “Stuff Island” podcast with fellow cast member Tommy Pope.
- Kilah Fox as Kilah: Kilah returns as the sharp-witted shop receptionist. Her notable works include “Gilly and Keeves” and “Gilly and Keeves: The Special”. She’s the sole female presence at Valley Forge, adding a unique dynamic.
- Stavros Halkias as Dave: Playing Dave, the “scummy general manager”, Stavros is a popular comedian and podcaster, famous for co-hosting “Cum Town” and for his current podcast, “Stavvy’s World”.
This tight-knit group, many of whom have worked together on “Gilly and Keeves,” creates an authentic, improvisational “hangout” vibe that makes the show feel incredibly real and genuinely funny. It’s this organic chemistry that truly makes “Tires” a standout in the workplace comedy genre.
Star Power & Fresh Faces: The Exciting New “Tires” Cast
The second season of “Tires” significantly expands its ensemble, introducing a roster of seasoned comedic actors and emerging talents that inject fresh dynamics and elevate the show’s overall comedic and narrative scope.
Thomas Haden Church as Phil: Shane’s Hilarious Dad
Get ready for a major upgrade in “Tires” Season 2 with the addition of Thomas Haden Church as Phil, Shane’s fun-loving (and sometimes hard-nosed) father. His arrival is a “major improvement,” blending perfectly with the show’s signature humor and adding a whole new layer of family dynamics for Shane. Church, an acclaimed actor known for “Wings,” his Oscar-nominated role in “Sideways,” and as Sandman in “Spider-Man 3” , brings a depth that elevates the series beyond just workplace antics. His character introduces emotional stakes and helps build out the world of “Tires,” making it even more engaging.
Comedy Icons Roll In: Vince Vaughn, Jon Lovitz, & Ron White
The star power in “Tires” Season 2 doesn’t stop there! Get ready to see some true comedy legends making appearances, adding even more laughs and range:
- Vince Vaughn as Mike: Known for his iconic roles in comedies like “Wedding Crashers,” “Couples Retreat,” and “Old School,” Vaughn brings his signature style as a businessman named Mike.
- Jon Lovitz as Angry Man: This Emmy-nominated comedian and Saturday Night Live veteran (1985-1990) is a master of character work, also famous for his extensive voice roles in “The Simpsons” and films like “A League of Their Own”.
- Ron White as Ron: A charter member of the legendary “Blue Collar Comedy Tour,” Ron White’s distinctive storytelling and wit are a perfect fit for the show’s vibe.
These incredible additions are a “great collective endorsement” for the series. Their performances feel “natural and effortless” because they just get the show’s unique brand of humor. Bringing in such big names not only expands the show’s reach beyond Shane Gillis’s core fanbase but also signals that “Tires” is a must-watch comedy series with serious comedic chops.
Expanding the Ensemble: New & Returning Faces
Beyond the big names, “Tires” Season 2 also brings in fantastic new and returning talents, making the ensemble even richer:
- Veronika Slowikowska as Kelly: Veronika plays Kelly, Shane’s new romantic interest, in a storyline that’s far more engaging than your typical “will they, won’t they”. Slowikowska is a Canadian actress and comedian, known for “What We Do in the Shadows”.
- Andrew Schulz as Andy: A popular comedian and podcaster, notably co-hosting the “Flagrant” podcast.
- Tommy Pope as Tommy: A comedian, writer, and actor, also known for co-hosting the “Stuff Island” podcast.
- Ryan Farrell as Ryan: Portrays Ryan, a True Thread employee, bringing a “surprisingly punchy and vulnerable” performance.
- Alexa Albanese as Lisa: Plays a Valley Forge receptionist, and is also a talented comedian, writer, and actor.
- John McKeever as Chuck: The co-creator and director of “Tires” also steps in front of the camera as Chuck, a mechanic at the Belmont branch.
- Francis Ellis as George: Reprising his role as the entrepreneur, Ellis delivers one of Season 2’s “greatest guest star performance”.
- H. Foley as Pete: An actor and comedian from New York who plays Pete, a True Thread employee, and is known for co-hosting the “Are You Garbage?” podcast.
- Joe DeRosa as Joe: A prominent American comedian, actor, and writer.
- Drew Scheid as Frankie: Plays the rebellious character of Frankie.
This expanded Tires cast allows the show to explore deeper storylines and offer even more hilarious, improvised moments. With 12 episodes, the series can truly build out the world of Valley Forge, moving beyond a simple sketch format into a rich, multifaceted comedy series.
Table 2: Core & New Cast Highlights: “Tires” Season 2
The “Tires” Vibe: Unfiltered, Blue-Collar, and Genuinely Funny
What Makes “Tires” So Unique?
“Tires” isn’t your average sitcom. It’s carved out a truly unique comedic space, often described as a “juvenile, blue-collar little cousin of Eastbound & Down” or a show where “losers court controversy à la It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia“. Think raw, observational humor, much like “Clerks,” perfectly capturing the “antisocial crap guys can get up to at a job that doesn’t occupy all their mental energy”. While it embraces a crude, unpolished style, “Tires” Season 2 has been praised for its “fresh and surprisingly witty comedic style,” proving it can be “wonderfully simple and unpretentious yet still surprisingly crafty”. It’s all about authenticity and a healthy dose of irreverence.
The Audience vs. Critic Showdown: Why Fans Love It
One of the most fascinating things about “Tires” is the huge difference between how critics and audiences reacted to Season 1. Critics gave it a mixed Metascore of 44, with some calling the humor “irreducibly dumb”. But fans? They gave it a “generally favorable” user score of 7.2, often raving that it’s “simple, funny, not consumed by woke ideology,” and “actually funny” – a true “old school comedy”. This isn’t just a difference of opinion; it highlights a bigger trend in comedy. While some critics look for specific themes, a huge audience is craving unfiltered comedy that feels raw, authentic, and isn’t afraid to push boundaries. Netflix’s big investment in “Tires” is a clear sign they’re listening to you, the viewer, and delivering the kind of humor that resonates with a massive, often underserved, audience.
Navigating the Edge: “Tires” and Its Humor
Like many unfiltered comedy shows, “Tires” has faced some criticism for its “edgelord language,” including certain slurs. This shows the delicate balance the series walks between its raw brand and broader appeal. However, early reports suggest that “Tires” Season 2 feels “less edgy and prone to offending than season 1 did”. This isn’t about compromising its core identity, but rather a smart evolution. It seems the creators and Netflix are finding that sweet spot where the show can maintain its authentic, blue-collar humor without relying on shock value, making it more accessible while still delivering those signature laughs.
The Secret Sauce: Improv and Authentic Chemistry
What truly sets “Tires” apart is its incredibly authentic, raw feel, thanks in large part to its improvisational elements. You’ll spot moments where actors genuinely break character, laughing at unexpected comments – a testament to the real comedic chemistry on set. The Tires cast just gets the show’s unique brand of humor, making their performances feel incredibly natural and effortless. This isn’t about slick production; it’s about raw comedic talent and genuine interactions that deliver a “reliable laugh”. It’s a prime example of how “betting on yourself” and fostering true comedic rapport can lead to massive streaming success.
Beyond the Garage: “Tires” and the Future of Comedy
What’s Next? The Road to “Tires” Season 3
With the “major improvement” and expanded scope seen in “Tires” Season 2, this comedy series is quickly becoming a “highly reliable platform and comedic showcase for Netflix”. If Season 2 continues its streaming success, a third season could very well be on the horizon. The buzz and increased investment clearly point to a long and hilarious future for “Tires” on Netflix!
Shane Gillis: A Comedy Force to Be Reckoned With
Shane Gillis’s journey is a fascinating case study in modern comedy. Famously removed from Saturday Night Live in 2019 due to past controversial statements, Gillis didn’t just bounce back – he returned to host SNL twice, proving his undeniable appeal. His hit Netflix stand-up specials, like “Beautiful Dogs” , and the massive streaming success of “Tires” highlight his growing influence. “Tires” has become a “symbol of unfiltered comedy” for fans, perfectly embodying Gillis’s brand. His career shows a powerful shift: traditional gatekeepers like SNL are no longer the sole arbiters of comedic talent. Instead, platforms like YouTube and podcasts allow comedians to build huge, loyal fanbases directly. Netflix is smartly tapping into this, prioritizing direct audience connection and proven talent over traditional industry validation. It’s a testament to the power of “betting on yourself” in today’s entertainment landscape.
Netflix’s Comedy Playbook: Catering to Every Laugh
Netflix has truly revolutionized the comedy world, “democratizing comedy in unprecedented ways”. They’re now releasing dozens of diverse comedic voices each year, a huge leap from the past. Their strategy is clear: reward creators who have “undeniable material,” a “distinct comedic perspective,” and a proven audience. The massive streaming success of “Tires” and Netflix’s continued support for comedians known for their unfiltered comedy shows a big shift. What was once considered “niche” or “edgy” is now a major, profitable part of mainstream entertainment. This means platforms are actively catering to a wide range of comedic tastes, including those who appreciate humor that challenges the status quo.
The Last Laugh: Why “Tires” is a Must-Watch
“Tires” truly stands out in the Netflix comedy lineup. It’s a blue-collar workplace comedy that masterfully blends raw, unfiltered humor with surprisingly deep storytelling. Its journey from a self-funded project to a global Netflix hit perfectly illustrates how audience-driven content is reshaping the entertainment industry. The expanded Tires cast in Season 2, featuring comedy legends like Thomas Haden Church, Vince Vaughn, Jon Lovitz, and Ron White alongside Shane Gillis’s trusted collaborators, has only amplified its hilarious and engaging appeal.
More than just a funny show, “Tires” is a testament to the power of independent creators, the evolving tastes of streaming audiences, and Shane Gillis’s significant impact on modern comedy. It’s a shining example of how authentic, audience-loved content can not only survive but thrive on major platforms, carving out its own unique space in the ever-changing world of entertainment.
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