The Bear Season 4 Review: A Fiery Comeback After a Lukewarm Season 3

Published: June 26, 2025

The Bear, FX's acclaimed comedy, has finally redeemed itself with a scorching hot season 4 after a disappointing season 3. The new season, now streaming on Hulu, brings back the emotional intensity and culinary excitement that fans of the show have grown to love.

A Season of Redemption

Season 4 picks up where season 3 left off, with Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) struggling to cope with a mediocre review from the Chicago Tribune. The response from his cousin Natalie (Abby Elliott) is surprising, as she suggests that it's okay to move on from the restaurant if Carmy's passion has faded.

The season then takes off, with Carmy simplifying the Bear's menu and reducing each dish to its essence. The narrative is shaped around two essential arcs: the restaurant's comeback and Sydney's (Ayo Edebiri) decision to leave the Bear's kitchen.

Brie Larson's Surprising Guest Role

In a pivotal episode, Brie Larson plays Francie Fak, a mysterious figure who has been alluded to throughout the series. Her character is a bully and a bit of a monster, but ultimately, she's just another maladjusted member of the Berzatto family.

An Emotional and Culinary Ride

The season culminates in an hour-long episode set at Tiffany's (Gillian Jacobs) wedding party, where the characters come together in a dramatic and emotional confrontation. The episode is a highlight of the season, with a heft and sweep that will leave viewers satisfied.

Throughout the season, the dialogue is engrossing, the acting is uniformly strong, and the culinary excitement is back in full force. The Bear has finally recaptured the emotional momentum of its first two seasons, and it's a relief.