The US premiere of The Bear season 3 was June 26, 2024, at 9 pm ET on Hulu and FX. The UK viewers could watch the episodes at 2 am BST on June 27th. Initially, the release was set for later dates, but it was moved forward, and needless to say, fans were thrilled when the release was moved up. In November 2023, the show was renewed for another season, proving its popularity and critical acclaim.
The Bear season 3 has become a hot topic, especially due to its impressive cameos. They add excitement and surprise to the series with each cameo. The cameos not only help bring new viewers but also engage existing viewers with familiar faces in unexpected roles.
The Bear season 3 cameos are a highlight, featuring both returning actors and new faces. From a number of Hollywood stars to renowned chefs, every cameo in this third season contributes to the storyline in significant ways.
Every cameo in The Bear season 3
1) John Mulaney as Steve in episode one
John Mulaney briefly returns as Steve in episode one, Tomorrow. The flashbacks show Steve offering Carmy a place to stay and providing support during his challenging times in New York. The characters of Mulaney and Paulson were first seen in the famous season two episode Fishes.
Several nights, Steve puts a blanket over Carmy while he sleeps and tells him he smells like a donkey.
2) Sue Chan, Chris Black, Jason Stewart, and more as fictional critics in episode three
The Bear season 3, episode three, Doors, features Sue Chan, Chris Black, Jason Stewart, and Naomi Fry as fictional food critics. Their brief appearances as critics create a realistic portrayal of the pressures faced by the restaurant staff.
The episode humorously addresses the anxiety and preparation involved in impressing influential food critics.
3) Josh Hartnett as Frank in episode four
Josh Hartnett appears as Frank in episode four, Violet. Frank is the fiancé of Richie’s ex-wife, Tiff. The episode features an awkward yet sincere interaction between Richie and Frank when Richie drops off his daughter, Evie.
Their conversation about family dynamics and the future, set to Taylor Swift’s Long Live, reflects the complexities of blended families and the challenges of moving forward.
4) John Cena as Sammy Fak in episode five
John Cena makes a memorable appearance as Sammy F*cking Fak in "Children", episode five. Sammy helps prepare The Bear for a review by the Chicago Tribune. He introduces the unique Fak family tradition of "haunting" loved ones, a quirky and humorous element.
5) Jon Bernthal as Michael Berzatto in episode six
Jon Bernthal appears in flashbacks throughout the season as Michael Berzatto. His character is significant in both Carmy's and Tina's pasts. In episode six, Napkins, directed by Ayo Edebiri, Bernthal’s Michael interacts with Tina, who is struggling to find new work.
6) Jamie Lee Curtis as Donna Berzatto in episode eight
Jamie Lee Curtis returns in episode eight of The Bear season 3, "Ice Chips," as Donna Berzatto. When Natalie goes into labor and cannot reach anyone else, she calls her mother, Donna.
Their complicated and strained relationship dominates this episode. They discuss past issues and seek healing.
7) Olivia Colman as Chef Andrea Terry In episode ten
Olivia Colman reprises her role as Chef Andrea Terry, featuring in flashbacks and news stories throughout the season. In episode ten, Forever, her character announces the closure of her restaurant, Ever.
After an entire season of White's character fretting over spending time in the kitchen, Colman's Andrea tells Carmy she's closing the restaurant to have a life outside of cooking.
Read more: The Bear Season 3 Soundtrack: The definitive guide
8) Bradley Cooper as Chef Adam Jones
Bradley Cooper makes a brief but impactful cameo as Chef Adam Jones from the film Burnt in episode ten. His character appears in a photo at Ever's funeral dinner service. The 2015 film chronicled the character of the multihyphenate, who was once a renowned chef in Paris. However, his career was put on hold due to a meltdown caused by his drug and alcohol use.
9) Will Poulter as Luca in season finale
Will Poulter returns as Luca, appearing in Carmy's flashbacks and the season finale. His character, a former colleague of Carmy’s, had previously taught Marcus advanced pastry skills in Copenhagen.
He makes an appearance in Carmy's flashbacks throughout season three before finally appearing in the final episode, as they bid farewell to Ever.
10) Paulie James as Chuckie and Chris Zucchero as Chi-Chi
Paulie James and Chris Zucchero return to assist Ebra at the sandwich window. James, co-founder of Uncle Paulie’s Deli, and Zucchero, owner of Mr. Beef, add authenticity to the show.
Their characters help bridge the gap between The Bear’s fine dining aspirations and its roots as a sandwich shop.
11) Famous chefs as themselves
The Bear season 3 features renowned chefs like Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller, and René Redzepi, appearing as themselves in flashbacks and the finale. These chefs train Carmy at various points in his career, emphasizing the authenticity of the series.
Their presence highlights Carmy's journey through the culinary world, showcasing his experiences with top-tier mentors and the high standards he aspires to maintain.
The Bear season 3 excels not only in its storyline but also through its strategic cameos. Each cameo, from Hollywood stars to real-life chefs, adds depth and authenticity to the series.
The talented cast and crew, led by Christopher Storer and including Jeremy Allen White and Ayo Edebiri, continue to impress. The show's cameos this season highlight its commitment to blending fiction with real-world culinary expertise, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers.
The Bear season 3 is currently available on Hulu.