Back then, TV shows were more rigidly defined.

But in the streaming age, TV genres have gotten much more nuanced.

But as dramatic as it is,The Bears inclusion in the comedy categories isnt totally outrageous.

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There are a lot of funny scenes that justifyThe Bears categorization as a comedy series.

Carmy is counting on the geek crowd to keep the business afloat.

But when he goes out to get the crowd under control, he gets attacked.

Collage of Carmy and Richie in the kitchen in The Bear

This was a perfect introduction to Richie as a character.

This is what Richie brings to the table.

He might not know much about the restaurant business, but his street-smarts have plenty of value.

Richie speaking into a megaphone in The Bear

The Bear follows Carmy, a young fine-dining chef, as he returns to Chicago to manage his family’s sandwich shop. Amidst personal and professional challenges, he strives to transform both the establishment and himself while navigating relationships with a diverse and gritty team that becomes his chosen family.

My brother… he was an addict.

Syd begins, Chef, that is…

It seems like shes about to say something supportive or offer some words of wisdom during a tough time.

Syd talking to Carmy outside in The Bear.

But then, she continues, …a little too personal, I think.

Ayo Edebiris deadpan delivery is pitch-perfect, and Jeremy Allen Whites gobsmacked facial expression makes the punchline land.

Carmy and Syd would eventually become close friends, but they didnt know each other that well yet.

Richie standing in front of an inflatable hot dog in The Bear

to which Carmy dryly responds, A child, Richie.

This interaction perfectly sums up their relationship.

It also demonstrates exactly who these characters are and how their personalities clash for a classic comedic double act.

Richie sits in a holding cell in The Bear

Richie is the blustering loudmouth who doesnt think before he speaks and Carmy is the deadpan voice of reason.

What couldve been a good opportunity to bring in some extra money turns into a brutal brawl.

Richie spends all night in a holding cell waiting to find out if hes being charged with murder.

Pete holding a casserole in The Bear

All throughout the night, Richie has plenty of time to reconsider his life choices.

After a night of soul-searching, he goes right back to being who he always was.

Richies sigh of relief is a great comedic payoff to a really dark dramatic situation.

Richie apologizes to Sugar in The Bear

It perfectly replicates the feelings of stress and anxiety that come from living with a volatile parent.

This is in stark contrast with the warm, fuzzy feeling created by most TV holiday specials.

John Mulaneys Stevie says it best: Hey, Pete, thanks for bringing the fish!

Carmy gets stuck in the fridge in The Bear

This is a great example of a really sweet, sincere moment being undercut with humor.

Carmy getting stuck in the fridge is a hilarious comedic situation.

Its the kind of thing that would happen in a straightforward sitcom likeBobs Burgers.

Richie gets covered in mold and dust in The Bear

But in season 2, episode 2, Pasta, theres a really great physical gag involving Richie.

Slapstick gags dont always work, but this one is hysterical.

What makes this scene even funnier is Ciceros reaction.

Carmy realizes the cooler has been spiked in The Bear

1Sydney Accidentally Stabs Richie

Everyone starts to lose it in season 1, episode 7, Review.

In the midst of the chaos, Syd gets into a heated argument with Richie.

During the fight, Syd accidentally stabs Richie.

Syd arguing with Richie in The Bear

This scene is the epitome of the unpredictable anarchy ofThe Bear and what makes it such a great comedy.

Headshot Of Jeremy Allen White In The 30th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards

Headshot of Ebon Moss-Bachrach

The Bear