Ep 1. Here's the Kicker

Mike Baxter (Tim Allen) is back for the fourth season of Last Man Standing, and he's ready to tackle some new challenges. In the first episode of the season, titled "Here's the Kicker," Mike is faced with a problem that seems almost insurmountable.

As former quarterback of his high school football team, Mike has always been passionate about the sport. He's even gone so far as to launch a line of football-related products and sponsor local teams. But when his latest product, a kicking tee that promises to improve field goal accuracy, starts getting negative reviews, Mike is at a loss.

Enter Ryan (Jordan Masterson), Mike's son-in-law and former kicker for his college football team. Ryan takes on the task of testing the product and, to Mike's dismay, finds that it doesn't work as advertised. This leads to a rift between father-in-law and son-in-law, and Mike is forced to confront some uncomfortable truths about his business practices.

Meanwhile, Mike's wife Vanessa (Nancy Travis) is dealing with problems of her own at work. As a geologist, Vanessa works in a male-dominated field and has to deal with constant sexism and harassment. When she's passed over for a promotion in favor of a less-qualified male colleague, Vanessa decides to take matters into her own hands.

With a biting sense of humor and a deep well of heart, "Here's the Kicker" tackles some weighty issues in ways that are both relatable and entertaining. As always, Tim Allen shines in his role as Mike, bringing both his trademark wit and his legendary charm to the part. With solid performances from the rest of the cast and a smart, well-written script, this episode sets a high bar for the rest of the season. Fans of the show are sure to love it, and newcomers will find plenty to enjoy as well.

Overall, "Here's the Kicker" is a strong start to the fourth season of Last Man Standing. With its mix of laughs and drama, it's a testament to the show's enduring appeal. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for something fun to watch, this episode is well worth checking out.