Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Fans of the comedy-drama series "The Bear" were surprised by the sudden release of a special episode titled "Gary" on May 5, 2026.
This hour-long prequel episode was suddenly available on Hulu and Disney+, sparking high anticipation among viewers.
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The episode "Gary" is not part of the regular season, but rather a flashback story often referred to as "Season 4.5."
Its primary focus is on revealing the backstories and the complex relationship between Richard "Richie" Jerimovich (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) and Michael "Mikey" Berzatto (Jon Bernthal).
This unexpected release provides in-depth insight into the pasts of key characters before the events of the main series of "The Bear."
The episode also serves as a crucial emotional bridge to the highly anticipated fifth season.
Story Details and Background of "Gary"
The episode "Gary" takes viewers back to early 2019, several years before the events of the first season of "The Bear," when Tiff is about to give birth to Evie.
This timeframe provides important context regarding Richie and Mikey's lives before The Bear restaurant became the focus.
The episode's plot follows Richie and Mikey on a journey from Chicago to Gary, Indiana, on a mysterious mission.
They are tasked by cousin Jimmy (Oliver Platt) to deliver a box whose contents are unknown to either of them.
This journey isn't just a delivery, but rather a deep exploration of the dynamics of their friendship.
Richie and Mikey's Characters
The official description from FX explains that "Gary" aims to unravel "the two friends' complicated relationship, revealing new layers of Mikey's mental state."
The episode provides a clearer picture of the pressures and challenges Mikey faced before his death.
Furthermore, the episode offers important insight into the kind of man Richie was when viewers first met him in season 1.
This episode, in particular, provides insight into Richie's origins, explaining his complex motivations and personality.
"Gary" also serves as a crucial bridge to the fifth season of The Bear, providing a powerful emotional context.
Production and Cast
The "Gary" special episode is unique in its production process because it was co-written by its two lead actors, Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Jon Bernthal.
The episode was directed by Christopher Storer, the creator of the "The Bear" series, ensuring a consistent artistic vision.
Storer's expertise in directing complex stories is evident in the presentation of this prequel episode.
In addition to Moss-Bachrach and Bernthal, the episode also features guest appearances from Marin Ireland as Sherri and Gillian Jacobs as Tiffany Jerimovich.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Jon Bernthal have a long history of collaboration, including on "The Punisher" and the "Sharp Stick" films, as well as on the Broadway stage.
How to Watch and Anticipate Season Five
Because "Gary" was released suddenly and is not part of the regular season, viewers are advised to search for "Gary" directly on Hulu or Disney+.
The streaming app will likely display it on the homepage upon opening.
This episode's release follows the fourth season of The Bear, which premiered in June 2025.
With "Gary," anticipation for season five has only increased.
The fifth season of The Bear has been confirmed and is expected to premiere in June 2026.
Rumors have circulated that this fifth season could potentially be the final season of this immensely popular series.