If you’ve been scrolling through Netflix lately, looking for a laugh, you might have stumbled upon Tires. At the heart of this comedy series is Steve Gerben, not just as an actor, but also as one of the creators. So, who is Steve Gerben, and why is his show worth watching? Let’s check under the hood.
Who is Steve Gerben?
Steve Gerben is an American comedian, writer, and actor best known for co-creating and starring in the Netflix series, Tires. In the show, Gerben plays Will, the hapless manager of his family’s struggling auto-repair shop, Valley Forge Automotive Center. He strives to improve customer service and drive profits while dealing with his troublemaking cousin, Shane.
Gerben’s involvement goes beyond acting; he is one of the key creative forces behind the show, writing and producing alongside Shane Gillis and John McKeever. His character, Will, provides the perfect launching pad for comedic antics.
Career Highlights and Notable Roles
Steve Gerben’s career is highlighted by his work on Tires:
- Tires: As Will, Gerben portrays a character constantly undermined by his cousin Shane (played by Shane Gillis). The show premiered on Netflix on May 23, 2024, and was quickly renewed for a second season, which premiered on June 5, 2025.
Besides his starring and co-creating role in Tires, Steve Gerben has appeared in several other comedy projects, particularly those connected to the Philadelphia-based comedy scene:
- Gilly and Keeves (2020–2021): Gerben was a recurring actor in this sketch comedy series created by Shane Gillis and John McKeever. He played various roles, including Steven, White Quarterback, and Glenn, across three episodes.
- Gilly and Keeves: The Special (2022): He appeared in this comedy special, again collaborating with Gillis and McKeever.
- Delco Proper (2016): Gerben played the character Gordy in three episodes of this TV series, which focused on blue-collar life in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
- Holly and the Hot Chocolate (2022): He appeared as Mayor Steve in this holiday TV movie.
These credits highlight Gerben’s background in sketch and character-driven comedy, often working alongside the same creative team that produced Tires.
What Makes Steve Gerben Stand Out?
What makes Gerben stand out is his ability to portray ineptness and innocence, which serves as a perfect setup for the comedic chaos created by Shane Gillis’ character. Gerben’s real-life connection to the auto-repair business (his father owns a tire shop where Tires is filmed) adds an authentic layer to the show.
Why You Should Care
As a dad who enjoys unwinding with some TV, Tires offers a mix of cringeworthy comedy and relatable workplace situations. Plus, knowing that Gerben’s character is dealing with family business drama adds an extra layer of connection for anyone who juggles family and work.
Described as a “fresh face in the industry,” Gerben stands out by bringing new energy and a distinct comedic sensibility to his projects. For me, he is actually the best part of Tires, and I think that is what makes Season 2 in particular, above-average TV. Shane Gillis is a powerhouse of laughs, but without Steve as his comedy wingman, the show would just be a stealth stand-up of Gillis.
What’s Next for Steve Gerben?
With the second season of Tires now streaming on Netflix, Gerben continues to expand his role both on and off the screen. Keep an eye out for more of his work as he continues to blend comedy with everyday scenarios.
Next time you’re browsing Netflix and need a laugh, check out Tires. Steve Gerben’s comedic timing and writing bring a fresh, relatable dynamic to the screen.
Full disclosure, I did enjoy parts of Season 1 of Tires, but it wasn’t great. Season 2, however, has been laugh-out-loud funny for me. It’s clear they figured it out.
