Tim Allen Forgives The Man Who Killed His Father After 60 Years Following Erika Kirk’s Memorial Speech

Tim Allen’s life has been shaped by tragedy, faith, and resilience — and now, after more than 60 years, the actor has publicly forgiven the man who killed his father. Inspired by Erika Kirk’s moving memorial speech, the “Home Improvement” star made a decision that he says brings him peace.

The Death Of His Father Has Shaped Who Tim Allen Is Today

When Tim Allen was just 11 years old, his father, Gerald Dick, was killed by a drunk driver. The devastating loss altered the course of his life forever. During a 20/20 interview, Allen admitted he had wrestled with faith for decades, questioning whether his prayers or presence could have changed the outcome.

“For years, I just did not like this idea of God, church,” Allen recalled. “I was still a churchgoer, but constantly a cynic.”

Over time, Allen developed his own understanding of God, whom he now calls “The Builder.”

“I always do ask The Builder, what did you want me to do? … But you got to be prepared for the answer.”

From his father’s death to his own arrest for drug possession, Allen has said these experiences shaped him with a sense of greater purpose.

“Whoever built me, this is too much, too weird that it happened by accident. It didn’t happen by accident.”

Tim Allen’s Bible Reading Journey

In recent years, the actor has been more open about his faith journey. Earlier in 2024, Allen shared with fans that he was reading the entire Bible, posting regular updates on social media.

“Finished the Old Testament, and it is such a gift when I get out of the way and the words and meaning flow,” he posted in June.

By October, he was diving into the Book of Daniel and reflecting on the challenges of understanding scripture:

“Finished a rather intense Ezekiel now on to Daniel… I need a Snickers,” he joked.

His commitment to scripture has only deepened his faith and outlook on forgiveness.

Erika Kirk’s Forgiveness Inspires Tim Allen

On September 25, during the Charlie Kirk Memorial at State Farm Stadium, Erika Kirk delivered a tearful eulogy for her late husband. In a powerful moment, she publicly declared:

“That man, that young man, I forgive him. I forgive him because it was what Christ did and it is what Charlie would do.”

Tim Allen later revealed that her words left a profound impact on him.

“When Erika Kirk spoke the words on the man who killed her husband: ‘That man… that young man… I forgive him.’ That moment deeply affected me,” Allen wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

After 60 Years, Tim Allen Chooses Forgiveness

Following her speech, Allen shared that he was finally ready to extend forgiveness to the man who killed his father decades ago.

“I have struggled for over 60 years to forgive the man who killed my Dad. I will say those words now as I type: ‘I forgive the man who killed my father.’ Peace be with you all,” he wrote.

For an actor whose comedy career brought laughter to millions, this moment of vulnerability showed a different side of Allen — one shaped by grief, faith, and the healing power of forgiveness.

When Erika Kirk spoke the words on the man who killed her husband: “That man… that young man… I forgive him.” That moment deeply affected me. I have struggled for over 60 years to forgive the man who killed my Dad. I will say those words now as I type: “ I forgive the man who…

— Tim Allen (@ofctimallen) September 25, 2025