Young actor Maxwell Simkins chatted about starring in “Shifting Gears” on Hulu alongside Tim Allen. He plays Carter, the son of Riley (played by Kat Dennings).
How does it feel to be a part of ‘Shifting Gears’ on Hulu?
It feels incredible. It’s a blessing every day to be able to call these people my co-workers and my friends.
They’re so talented, and it’s just really an honor to be able to stand alongside such a great cast and crew.
What do you like most about your character Carter?
I feel like Carter is very relatable. I think that’s something that really matters in cinema and television — being able to relate to the characters. Carter’s just so relatable on so many levels.
How does it feel to be a part of the digital age? (Now with streaming, technology and social media being so prevalent)
It feels great and super cool! It can be interesting, though. I was on The Mighty Ducks, and that was a blast — incredible — but it was removed from Disney+ so, now since it’s not in theaters or available for rent, I’m not sure I’ll be able to easily watch it again.
I do love that current entertainment is more accessible now. It’s easier for viewers to watch and to keep up with stories they care about, and that’s really exciting.
What do your plans for the future include?
I’d love to start venturing into more dramatic roles. I love all the fun, comedic roles I have been a part of, but exploring new acting spaces is something I hope to see in the future.
I’d also love to write, produce, and maybe direct some projects. I’ve been working on a few that I hope can happen— and hopefully, if I do, I can look back at this interview one day and say, “They were made.” That would be the biggest honor.
How was ‘The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers’ for you?
“Mighty Ducks” was incredible to be a part of. It really changed me as a person and as an actor.
It was a wild experience within itself, but I was so blessed to stay busy and keep working — especially getting the chance to work with so many people my age. Doing something like that again would be incredible.
What is your advice for young and emerging actors?
I’d say be yourself — but also, always be professional and kind. I was told that by one of my idols, Cameron Boyce, before he passed away.
He told me, “Always be professional and always be kind.” Those are the two things I’ll take with me as long as I act and as long as I live.
Being kind will get you so much further than any amount of talent ever will.
What does the word success mean to you? (My favorite question)
That’s a good question! I think success means setting goals for yourself and achieving them.
For me, some goals include winning an Oscar or an Emmy one day — not because awards define success, but because they’re milestones.
I also really want to create projects and start a production company to make the movies I feel are missing in the industry.
Success also means being happy with your work and your career’s direction.
Like Matthew McConaughey — he did rom-coms for years, but then he wanted to do more dramatic roles. He turned down a lot of money, but it led him to “Interstellar” and “Dallas Buyers Club.”
Some of the best dramatic films in the world. That’s real success to me — setting goals and meeting them, whether they’re big or small.
What would you like to tell our readers about ‘Shifting Gears’? (What’s the one thing you want them to get out of it)
I think it’s a great sitcom because it connects with viewers on so many levels. But the biggest thing is family — that family sticks together.
I think the show’s message about loyalty and always being there for your family is really special.
At its core, “Shifting Gears” is about a daughter who was estranged from her dad — they missed so much time together that they’ll never get back.
My character, along with my sister on the show, grew up without that connection too. So when they finally find a place to call home again, and rebuild that love, it’s really powerful.
To learn more about actor Maxwell Simkins, follow him on Instagram.
