Fans of FX and Disney+’s hit series The Bear have been left stunned by the surprise release of a brand new prequel episode titled 'Gary'. The hour-long special dropped unexpectedly on Disney+ in the UK and Hulu in the United States, sending viewers into a frenzy.
What is the Prequel Episode About?
The flashback episode takes place before the events of the first season. It follows Carmy's cousin Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as he embarks on a fishing trip to Gary, Indiana with Mikey (Jon Bernthal). A synopsis reveals that the pair encounter unexpected challenges and local personalities during their trip, while also uncovering the complex layers of their relationship.
The hour-long special provides revelatory insights into Mikey’s mental state before his tragic death, as well as crucial context explaining how Richie becomes the man viewers meet at the start of the first season.
Creative Team Behind the Episode
The episode was co-written by Moss-Bachrach and Bernthal, and directed by series creator Christopher Storer. Moss-Bachrach announced 'Gary’s' release on Instagram, calling it a "dream come true" to make.
Fan Reactions
Fans have been ecstatic about the surprise drop, which comes ahead of The Bear’s highly anticipated fifth and final season, expected to premiere in June. One Instagram user replied: "THIS IS EVERYTHING OH MY GOD THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR DOING THIS." Another viewer claimed to have immediately watched it and declared it a "masterpiece". A third predicted: "This is going to destroy me."
On X, a user said: "3 minutes in. Already know im gonna sob." A Redditor commented: "A prequel about a buddy-roadtrip, likely exploring Mikey’s deteriorating mental health? Awesome, can’t wait to cry."
Where to Watch
The Bear: Gary is available to stream on Disney+ in the UK and Hulu in the United States.
