Cast of The Bear: Full List of Actors & Roles

The Cast of The Bear plays a crucial role in bringing the intense world of the restaurant business to life. With each actor carefully chosen for their role, the ensemble delivers performances that feel both raw and authentic.

Jeremy Allen White, known for his breakout role in Shameless, leads as Carmy, a talented chef returning to run his late brother’s failing restaurant. Ebon Moss-Bachrach portrays Richie, Carmy’s troubled yet loyal friend, while Ayo Edebiri shines as Sydney, the ambitious young sous-chef.

Together, the cast of The Bear creates a rich tapestry of characters that capture the complex emotions of working in a high-stakes culinary environment.

Cast of The Bear Bio/Wiki

Actor	Date of Birth	Age	Family	Profession	Net Worth
Jeremy Allen White	February 17, 1991	33	Married to Addison Timlin, daughter Ezer	Actor, Producer	$8 million
Ebon Moss-Bachrach	March 19, 1980	44	Not widely publicized	Actor	$2 million
Ayo Edebiri	October 3, 1995	29	Parents Nigerian-American, family details unknown	Actress, Comedian	$1 million
Lionel Boyce	May 19, 1989	35	No detailed family info	Actor, Writer, Producer	$2 million
Liza Colón-Zayas	February 14, 1968	56	Married, mother to one child	Actress	$3 million
Abby Elliott	June 16, 1987	37	Daughter of Chris Elliott, married to Bill Kennedy	Actress, Comedian	$5 million
Matty Matheson	February 7, 1983	41	Wife Trish, two children	Chef, Actor, Author	$11 million
Carmen Christopher	Not widely available	N/A	Not available	Actor	N/A
Jon Bernthal	September 20, 1976	48	Married to Erin Angle, 3 children	Actor	$10 million
Joel McHale	November 20, 1971	53	Married to Sarah Williams, 2 children	Actor, Comedian	$14 million
Edwin Lee Gibson	Unknown	N/A	Not available	Actor	N/A
Corey Hendrix	Not widely available	N/A	Not available	Actor	N/A
Oliver Platt	January 12, 1960	64	Married to Debra S. Ginsburg, 2 children	Actor	$50 million
José Cervantes	Unknown	N/A	Not available	Actor	N/A
Richard Esteras	Unknown	N/A	Not available	Actor	N/A
Chris Witaske	February 28, 1983	41	Married to Kate Witaske, 1 child	Actor, Comedian	$1 million

Main Cast

Jeremy Allen White as Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto

• Character Overview: Jeremy Allen White stars as Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, an award-winning chef who is forced to return to his hometown of Chicago to take over his late brother’s struggling restaurant, The Beef. As Carmy, Jeremy portrays a complex character deeply affected by family trauma, high expectations, and the pressures of trying to make the restaurant successful.
• Role in the Show: Carmy is the show’s protagonist, juggling the weight of his family’s legacy, a challenging business environment, and his emotional baggage. His journey involves significant personal growth as he navigates these obstacles while also trying to turn The Beef into a better-run establishment. White’s portrayal of Carmy brings an emotional depth to the series, making him a sympathetic and compelling character.
• Actor Background: Jeremy Allen White is no stranger to television audiences. He gained recognition for his role as Lip Gallagher on the hit show Shameless. His ability to seamlessly transition from the chaos of Shameless to the high-stakes, emotionally charged role of Carmy in The Bear showcases his remarkable versatility as an actor. His performances have earned critical acclaim, solidifying his place as one of Hollywood’s rising stars.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard “Richie” Jerimovich

• Character Overview: Ebon Moss-Bachrach plays Richard “Richie” Jerimovich, Michael Berzatto’s (Carmy’s late brother) best friend and the de facto manager of The Beef. Richie is a loyal but deeply flawed character who struggles to adjust to Carmy’s leadership style. Throughout the series, Richie’s troubled past and complex personality are explored, making him both a source of comic relief and dramatic tension.
• Role in the Show: Richie’s role as Carmy’s ally is crucial, though fraught with conflict. His loyalty to the Berzatto family often puts him at odds with Carmy’s modern approach to running the restaurant. Despite his rough exterior, Richie’s journey reflects growth and understanding, as he learns to respect Carmy’s vision while trying to maintain his own identity within the family dynamic.
• Actor Background: Ebon Moss-Bachrach is best known for his role as David Lieberman in Marvel’s The Punisher. His strong background in both drama and comedy allows him to tackle Richie’s multifaceted character with ease. Moss-Bachrach’s portrayal of Richie has earned praise for its authenticity and depth, making him an essential part of the show’s ensemble.

Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu

• Character Overview: Ayo Edebiri plays Sydney Adamu, a talented young chef who joins The Beef as Carmy’s new sous chef. Sydney brings fresh energy and ambition to the restaurant, eager to prove herself and make her mark in the culinary world. As the show progresses, Sydney faces personal and professional challenges but remains driven by her love for cooking and her desire to succeed.
• Role in the Show: Sydney serves as Carmy’s right hand and provides the much-needed perspective of a younger, more modern approach to cooking and restaurant management. Her character arc focuses on her growth as a chef and her evolving relationship with Carmy, as she navigates the complexities of working in a chaotic and high-pressure environment.
• Actor Background: Ayo Edebiri has quickly made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She is known for her breakout role in Big Mouth and has also appeared in The Bear with a strong and captivating performance. Her ability to bring both humor and depth to Sydney has made her one of the standout actors on the show.

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Lionel Boyce as Marcus Brooks

• Character Overview: Lionel Boyce portrays Marcus Brooks, a talented bread-baker turned pastry chef at The Beef. Marcus is a character who evolves throughout the series, with Carmy mentoring him to develop his skills in the kitchen. His passion for baking, combined with his humble beginnings, creates a heartwarming character arc.
• Role in the Show: Marcus represents the potential for growth within The Beef, both in terms of its food and its employees. His transformation from a simple bread-baker to an ambitious pastry chef reflects the show’s underlying themes of self-improvement and mentorship. His relationship with Carmy becomes increasingly important as Marcus strives to reach his full potential.
• Actor Background: Lionel Boyce has been part of the acting and comedy scene for years. Known for his work in Loiter Squad, Boyce’s transition to drama in The Bear has been widely praised. His portrayal of Marcus provides a mix of sincerity and humor, adding layers to the show’s already rich ensemble.

Liza Colón-Zayas as Tina Marrero

• Character Overview: Liza Colón-Zayas plays Tina Marrero, a tough, stubborn line cook at The Beef. Tina is one of the restaurant’s most seasoned workers, but her career has been marked by a lack of formal training. Despite her initial resistance to Carmy’s methods, Tina’s character arc shows her determination to improve and learn.
• Role in the Show: Tina embodies the show’s themes of professional development and redemption. Though she initially challenges Carmy’s leadership, she eventually embraces the opportunity to train and grow in a more structured kitchen environment. Tina’s journey of overcoming her past and adapting to change is both inspiring and relatable.
• Actor Background: Liza Colón-Zayas is a seasoned actor with a strong background in theater and television. Her work in both dramatic and comedic roles has earned her recognition, and her portrayal of Tina brings a unique depth to the ensemble cast of The Bear. Zayas’s performance showcases her range and commitment to her craft.

Abby Elliott as Natalie “Sugar” Berzatto

• Character Overview: Abby Elliott plays Natalie “Sugar” Berzatto, Carmy and Michael’s sister. A reluctant co-owner of The Beef, Sugar is a character who tries to balance her familial obligations with her desires for a stable life. Though she is not as directly involved in the day-to-day operations of the restaurant, her role as a member of the Berzatto family brings an emotional anchor to the show.
• Role in the Show: Sugar’s role as Carmy’s sister provides a familial perspective on the struggles that Carmy faces. Her character serves as a reminder of the deep emotional bonds within the Berzatto family and the complexities of managing a family business. Sugar’s internal conflict between supporting her family and pursuing her happiness is a central theme of her arc.
• Actor Background: Abby Elliott, daughter of comedian Chris Elliott, has built her career in comedy and television. Known for her work on Saturday Night Live and Indebted, Elliott’s performance in The Bear stands out for its blend of humor and emotional depth, making Sugar a well-rounded character.

Matty Matheson as Neil Fak (Season 2 Onwards)

• Character Overview: Matty Matheson joins the cast in Season 2 as Neil Fak, a childhood friend of the Berzattos who works as a handyman at The Beef. Neil’s character brings a sense of nostalgia and camaraderie to the group, as he helps with the physical upkeep of the restaurant while also offering moral support to Carmy.
• Role in the Show: Neil’s role is integral to the team dynamic at The Beef, providing a link to the past while also helping to shape the future of the restaurant. His loyalty to the Berzatto family is evident, and his character adds a layer of warmth to the series.
• Actor Background: Matty Matheson is a Canadian chef, actor, and social media personality known for his culinary expertise and larger-than-life personality. His transition to acting in The Bear has been met with positive reviews, with Matheson’s natural charisma and authenticity adding depth to the ensemble cast.

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Recurring Cast

Carmen Christopher as Chester

• Character Overview: Carmen Christopher plays Chester, a close friend of Marcus who frequently visits The Beef. Chester is a source of both comic relief and emotional support for Marcus, offering a contrast to the intensity of the other restaurant staff. His visits are often marked by light-hearted banter, but he also provides moments of sincerity that deepen the show’s portrayal of friendship and camaraderie.
• Actor Background: Carmen Christopher is known for his work in both comedy and drama. He has appeared in various television series and independent films, showcasing his versatility. Christopher’s ability to balance humor with more serious moments makes him a standout in his recurring role on The Bear, adding a touch of levity while contributing to the emotional depth of the show.

Jon Bernthal as Michael “Mikey” Berzatto

• Character Overview: Jon Bernthal portrays Michael “Mikey” Berzatto, Carmy and Natalie’s late brother. Mikey’s character is a key element in understanding the Berzatto family dynamic, as his struggles with addiction and eventual death heavily impact the characters throughout the show. Though Mikey doesn’t appear in the present day of The Bear, his influence looms large over Carmy’s journey.
• Actor Background: Jon Bernthal is a highly respected actor known for his roles in The Punisher, The Walking Dead, and Daredevil. His career has been marked by a mix of intense, action-packed roles and nuanced, dramatic performances. Bernthal’s portrayal of Mikey adds depth and complexity to the family’s narrative, as his character’s impact is felt throughout the series despite his absence.

Joel McHale as David Fields

• Character Overview: Joel McHale plays David Fields, an abusive executive chef from New York. David serves as an antagonist in the series, showcasing a toxic leadership style that contrasts sharply with Carmy’s more empathetic approach. His role highlights the different approaches to running a kitchen and the professional dynamics within the culinary world.
• Actor Background: Joel McHale is best known for his comedic work, particularly as the host of The Soup and his role in Community. McHale’s sharp wit and ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles allow him to bring a distinct energy to the character of David, providing a compelling foil to Carmy’s leadership style.

Edwin Lee Gibson as Ebraheim

• Character Overview: Edwin Lee Gibson plays Ebraheim, a Somali veteran line cook at The Beef. Ebraheim is one of the more experienced staff members, offering both wisdom and grit to the kitchen team. His character brings a sense of resilience and stability to the restaurant, acting as both a mentor and a steady presence in the chaos.
• Actor Background: Edwin Lee Gibson has a strong background in both stage and screen acting. His powerful performances and unique character choices have earned him recognition, with The Bear providing him a platform to showcase his skills. Gibson’s portrayal of Ebraheim is filled with quiet strength, making him an essential part of the restaurant’s team.

Corey Hendrix as Gary “Sweeps” Woods

• Character Overview: Corey Hendrix plays Gary “Sweeps” Woods, a former minor-league baseball player who now works at The Beef. Gary’s transition from sports to the restaurant industry brings an interesting backstory to his character, as he navigates the shift from one form of discipline to another. His role in the show is relatively minor, but his presence adds depth to the ensemble.
• Actor Background: Corey Hendrix is a seasoned actor who has appeared in various film and television projects. While The Bear represents a significant opportunity for Hendrix, his previous roles have allowed him to refine his craft, and his portrayal of Gary brings an air of authenticity to the show.

Oliver Platt as Jimmy “Cicero” Kalinowski

• Character Overview: Oliver Platt plays Jimmy “Cicero” Kalinowski, the best friend of the Berzattos’ father and a key investor in The Beef. Cicero’s influence is pivotal to the restaurant’s financial survival, and his role in the series emphasizes the intersection of family loyalty and business decisions. His character’s complex motivations provide an additional layer of tension in the narrative.
• Actor Background: Oliver Platt is a versatile actor with an extensive career in both film and television. Known for his work in The West Wing, Chicago Med, and films like Lake Placid, Platt brings a wealth of experience and depth to his role in The Bear. His portrayal of Cicero brings a mix of warmth and business acumen, creating a memorable character within the larger story.

José Cervantes as Angel

• Character Overview: José Cervantes plays Angel, a dishwasher at The Beef. While Angel’s role is a minor one, his presence within the restaurant speaks to the larger, often overlooked staff members who play a vital role in the day-to-day operations of a business. His character represents the unsung heroes who contribute to the restaurant’s success in quieter but essential ways.
• Actor Background: José Cervantes is an actor with a diverse range of roles, often seen in smaller, character-driven parts. While he may not always be the focal point of the show, Cervantes brings a quiet authenticity to his portrayal of Angel, making him an integral part of the larger narrative.

Richard Esteras as Manny

• Character Overview: Richard Esteras plays Manny, another dishwasher at The Beef. Manny’s role mirrors that of Angel, as both characters help maintain the functionality of the restaurant. Though his role is largely behind the scenes, Manny’s character adds realism to the depiction of kitchen life, highlighting the often invisible labor that keeps the restaurant running smoothly.
• Actor Background: Richard Esteras is an actor known for his work in both television and film. While his role in The Bear may not be as prominent as others, Esteras’s portrayal of Manny helps to establish the show’s authenticity, providing depth to the ensemble cast.

Chris Witaske as Pete

• Character Overview: Chris Witaske plays Pete, Natalie’s husband. Pete provides comic relief throughout the series, often grounding the more intense moments with humor and light-heartedness. His relationship with Natalie adds a domestic layer to the show, giving viewers a sense of normalcy amid the chaos of The Beef.
• Actor Background: Chris Witaske is best known for his role in Love and Superstore. Witaske has built a career around comedic roles, and his performance as Pete showcases his talent for providing both levity and warmth to the show’s larger narrative. His ability to play a more grounded character offers a refreshing break from the more intense moments in the restaurant.

Guest Stars

Molly Ringwald as the Al-Anon Meeting Leader

• Character Overview: In a guest appearance, Molly Ringwald plays the Al-Anon Meeting Leader, offering a poignant moment of emotional depth for Carmy. This character plays a significant role in Carmy’s journey, as the meeting provides a space for reflection on his family dynamics and personal struggles. Ringwald’s brief yet impactful presence underscores the show’s exploration of addiction and recovery within a familial context.
• Actor Background: Molly Ringwald is a legendary figure in Hollywood, known for her iconic roles in The Breakfast Club (1985), Sixteen Candles (1984), and Pretty in Pink (1986). Ringwald’s career spans decades, and her performances have left an indelible mark on the teen film genre. Her recent roles in television, including Riverdale, continue to showcase her impressive versatility and depth as an actress, proving that she remains a celebrated and influential talent in the industry.

Will Poulter as Luca (Season 2)

• Character Overview: Will Poulter joins The Bear in Season 2 as Luca, a pastry chef who trains Marcus in Copenhagen. Luca’s character is a pivotal influence in Marcus’s development, pushing him to hone his skills and challenging him in ways that help his growth. Poulter’s portrayal of Luca brings a touch of mentorship and rivalry to the storyline, making his character’s impact on Marcus a key part of the latter’s arc.
• Actor Background: Will Poulter is an actor whose rising stardom has garnered significant attention, thanks to his performances in The Revenant (2015), We’re the Millers (2013), and Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018). Known for his range and ability to embody both comedic and dramatic roles, Poulter’s appearances in The Bear continue to solidify his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most promising talents. His dynamic energy and emotional range make him a memorable guest star on the show.

Jamie Lee Curtis as Donna Berzatto

• Character Overview: Jamie Lee Curtis portrays Donna Berzatto, the troubled mother of Carmy and Michael. Donna’s character adds an emotional layer to the series as she represents a source of dysfunction and pain within the Berzatto family. Her strained relationship with her children, particularly Carmy, becomes a focal point for the series’ exploration of familial trauma and healing. Curtis’s portrayal of Donna provides depth to the storyline, illustrating the complexity of mother-child relationships in a family marked by addiction and loss.
• Actor Background: Jamie Lee Curtis is one of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses, known for her roles in Halloween (1978), True Lies (1994), and Freaky Friday (2003). Curtis’s career spans genres from horror to comedy, and she has proven her versatility through both mainstream and critically acclaimed roles. Her talent and commitment to diverse roles have earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022). Curtis’s longstanding career and wide-ranging skillset make her an invaluable addition to The Bear.

Olivia Colman as Chef Andrea Terry

• Character Overview: Olivia Colman guest stars as Chef Andrea Terry, a British executive chef at Ever, a fine dining restaurant. Chef Andrea is a mentor figure to Carmy, offering guidance and insight into the world of high-end culinary operations. Colman’s portrayal of Chef Andrea is a blend of wisdom, authority, and warmth, making her an essential character in Carmy’s journey of professional and personal growth.
• Actor Background: Olivia Colman is an award-winning British actress with an illustrious career in both film and television. Known for her standout roles in The Favourite (2018), The Crown (2016-2019), and Broadchurch (2013-2017), Colman has proven herself as one of the finest actors of her generation. Her ability to inhabit a wide range of characters, from regal to relatable, has earned her multiple prestigious awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in The Favourite. Colman’s appearance in The Bear adds a layer of gravitas and sophistication, further elevating the show’s quality.

Cast of The Bear on Social Media

Actor	Character	Instagram	Twitter/X	Other Notes
Jeremy Allen White	Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto	@jeremyallenwhite	N/A	Known for Shameless.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach	Richard “Richie” Jerimovich	@mossbachrach	N/A	Also starred in The Punisher.
Ayo Edebiri	Sydney Adamu	@ayoedebiri	@ayoedebiri	Comedian and writer.
Lionel Boyce	Marcus	@lionelboyce	N/A	Also a writer and producer.
Liza Colón-Zayas	Tina	@lizacolonzayas	N/A	Veteran stage and screen actress.
Abby Elliott	Natalie “Sugar” Berzatto	@abbyelliott	N/A	Former SNL cast member.
Matty Matheson	Neil Fak	@mattymatheson	N/A	Real-life chef and restaurateur.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cast of The Bear

Is The Bear based on a true story?

While The Bear is not directly based on a true story, it draws inspiration from real-life experiences in the culinary world. The series explores the intense pressures and struggles of running a restaurant, particularly the dynamics of family-owned establishments. While it isn’t based on a specific real-life restaurant or chef, the show reflects the challenges that many chefs and restaurant workers face in terms of personal struggles, professional conflicts, and the high-stakes environment of the food industry.

Was Jamie Lee Curtis in The Bear?

Yes, Jamie Lee Curtis made a guest appearance in The Bear. She plays Donna Berzatto, the troubled mother of Carmy and Michael. Her character adds a complex emotional layer to the family dynamics, especially about her children and their struggles with addiction. Curtis’s performance is impactful, and her presence in the series adds depth to the exploration of family trauma and healing.

Is The Bear episode 7 one shot?

Yes, The Bear Episode 7, titled “Review,” is filmed in a single continuous shot. This episode is known for its long, unbroken take that showcases the chaos and intensity of a busy night in the restaurant, building tension and drama as the characters navigate multiple conflicts. The one-shot approach helps immerse the audience in the frenetic energy of the restaurant environment and heightens the emotional stakes of the episode.

Why is The Bear so good?

The Bear has been widely praised for several reasons:

• Authentic portrayal of the culinary world: The show accurately represents the challenges and chaos of running a restaurant, providing a raw and immersive experience.
• Complex, relatable characters: Each character is deeply developed, with personal struggles, growth arcs, and relationships that resonate with viewers.
• Strong performances: The cast, especially Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Ayo Edebiri, deliver standout performances that bring the characters to life.
• Emotional depth: The show delves into themes of family, trauma, mental health, and resilience, making it more than just a workplace drama.
• Cinematic approach: The series uses innovative storytelling techniques, such as the one-shot episode, to elevate the tension and visual experience, making it stand out in the world of TV.

Conclusion of Cast of the Bear

The cast of The Bear is undeniably one of the standout elements of the show, with a rich ensemble of main, recurring, and guest stars bringing depth and authenticity to the narrative.

From the powerful performances of Jeremy Allen White and Ebon Moss-Bachrach to the star-studded guest appearances of Jamie Lee Curtis, Olivia Colman, and Molly Ringwald, the actors play crucial roles in creating an emotionally resonant story that captivates audiences.

Whether they are portraying troubled chefs, loyal friends, or influential mentors, each actor contributes to the series’ exploration of family, food, and personal growth.