What’s the Episode Featuring Richie and Mikey in The Bear? An Explained Surprise Prequel
Before The Bear makes its return for its fifth — and likely final — season, Hulu surprised fans with a flashback episode that highlights the beloved characters played by Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Jon Bernthal.
“COUSINS! PRIMOS! CUGINI!!! Get ready for GARY!!!! We are thrilled to finally reveal this little journey alongside Richie and Mikey,” Moss-Bachrach shared via Instagram on Tuesday, May 5. “Written by me and @jonnybernthal. Directed by the amazing Christopher Storer. This was truly a dream come true. Huge thanks to the lovely folks of Gary, Indiana, and, of course, Chicago, Illinois.”
The Bear, which debuted in 2022, dives into the culinary world through the eyes of a gifted chef named Carmy (Jeremy Allen White), who returns to Chicago shortly after the passing of his older brother Mikey (Bernthal) to take over their family’s sandwich shop, The Beef. After shutting down the local eatery, Carmy and his team reimagine the establishment as The Bear.
Set while Mikey is still alive, Gary aims to explore Mikey’s mindset prior to his death and to examine its impact on Richie’s actions following the tragedy.
The episode’s final scene also features a moment that appears to take place in the present day. Keep reading for insights on Gary — and its implications for The Bear season 5.
What Is ‘Gary’ About?
The official synopsis indicates that Gary centers on the “complicated relationship” between Mikey and Richie, revealing deeper layers of Mikey’s mental state while providing essential context regarding Richie’s character as introduced in season 1 — thus reshaping their narrative from the outset.
The title is thought to reference the location where the episode was filmed — Gary, Indiana.
Who Appears in the Surprise Episode?
Alongside Moss-Bachrach and Bernthal, Gillian Jacobs, Marin Ireland, and others make notable guest appearances.
Where Can ‘The Bear’ Fans Watch the ‘Gary’ Special?
The hour-long episode is available as a standalone project — titled Gary — on Hulu.
How Does ‘Gary’ Set Up for ‘The Bear’ Season 5?
During a moment of nostalgia about his friendship with Mikey and their road trip before his passing, Richie becomes distracted while driving on a rainy day. After a car behind him honks, he starts to pull away but ends up in a potentially perilous car accident.
When Does ‘The Bear’ Return for Season 5?
Though FX has yet to officially announce it, The Bear is anticipated to return in June.
Jamie Lee Curtis stirred interest when she shared photos of wrapping production on the show’s latest season, writing via Instagram in February, “FINISHED STRONG! Surrounded by an exceptional crew and team of writers and producers on the show that Chris Storer brought to life, completing the journey of this extraordinary family we’ve all come to love.”
The actress, who portrays matriarch Donna, confirmed she “got to finish it out with” her on-screen daughter, played by Abby Elliott. Curtis’ post led some to speculate that the cast has been informed that season 5 would be the final season of the show.
