Critically adored comedy-drama 'The Bear' is now available to stream completely free of charge for viewers in the UK. The first season of the Emmy-winning hit, which originally debuted on Disney+, has landed on the ITVX platform.
A Culinary Drama Hailed as a Masterpiece
The series, which premiered in 2022, stars Jeremy Allen White as Carmen 'Carmy' Berzatto, a celebrated chef from the world of Michelin-starred kitchens. Following the suicide of his older brother Michael, Carmy is forced to return to his hometown of Chicago to take over the family's struggling Italian beef sandwich shop.
He inherits not just the rundown restaurant, later renamed The Bear, but also his brother's substantial debts and a chaotic, unruly staff. The show meticulously charts Carmy's struggle to save the business while grappling with profound family trauma and grief.
An Award-Winning Ensemble Cast
Carmy is joined in his efforts by an ambitious young chef named Sydney, played by Ayo Edebiri, and the restaurant's manager Richie, portrayed by Ebon Moss-Bachrach, who was Michael's best friend. The stellar supporting cast also includes Lionel Boyce, Liza Colón-Zayas, Abby Elliott, Matty Matheson, and Edwin Lee Gibson.
The show's powerful writing, direction, and performances have earned it widespread praise. To date, 'The Bear' has won an impressive 21 Primetime Emmy Awards, including the top prize for Outstanding Comedy Series, along with five Golden Globes.
Viewers and Critics Are United in Praise
Fans have flooded social media and review platforms with acclaim, describing the series as a "masterpiece" and "across the board perfection." One viewer noted it was "well crafted" with "excellent writing" and a "compelling story" that "makes you hungry for more."
Another fan praised its emotional depth, calling it "a rare kind of art; it's soulful, teary eyed and oddly funny," while a different viewer highlighted the "immaculate" pacing and "deeply developed" characters.
Uncertainty Surrounds the Show's Future
Despite the show's monumental success, its future beyond the upcoming fifth season remains unclear. Jeremy Allen White revealed in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter that the fifth season could potentially be the last.
"The fourth season was going to be the last," White explained, noting that creator Chris Storer decided to extend the story. He added that there are currently no concrete plans for more seasons, stating, "I think it's just all dependent on what Chris wants to do."
For now, UK audiences have the chance to catch up on the stress-inducing, heart-warming, and critically lauded first season of 'The Bear' for free on ITVX.
