TV

5 Reasons to Give The Bear a Watch If You Liked Ted Lasso

5 Reasons to Give The Bear a Watch If You Liked Ted Lasso
Image credit: FX

Not a feel-good show, but definitely similar in many ways.

While many fans were a bit dissatisfied with Season 3 of Ted Lasso, no one can deny that this Apple TV+ original was one of the best comedy-dramas in recent years. If you enjoyed the relatable characters and important issues raised in Jason Sudeikis' show, there's another comedy-drama series that you may find equally satisfying.

The Bear, a Hulu series about a young chef trying to transform his late brother's eatery, will definitely appeal to all Ted Lasso fans. Here's why.

5. It's a workplace comedy-drama

Most of the story in Ted Lasso is centered around the work environment and daily interactions between AFC Richmond staff. The Bear is largely the same, featuring characters who face challenges in their work, try to improve the workflow, and simply build relationships with each other.

4. It features an ensemble cast

Although Ted Lasso is named after one character who is the catalyst for the story, it doesn't just focus on Ted alone (especially in the latest season). Similarly, all characters in The Bear get plenty of screen time, and no one stands out more than others.

3. No romance among staff

Ted Lasso has enough romance within and outside of AFC Richmond, but at the end of the day, the characters are all just good friends, first and foremost. In the case of The Bear, you won't find any romance between the restaurant staff at all because this show is all about camaraderie and mutual support.

2. Characters follow their own pursuits

Remember 'Sunflowers' in Ted Lasso? This episode followed the storylines of several characters as they were on their own in Amsterdam. There are similar episodes in The Bear — outside of the stress and chaos of their work, the characters go about their lives and find something new for themselves.

1. It's about past trauma and mental health

Coming to terms with one's traumatic past and living life to the fullest in the present is the main theme of both shows. In The Bear, the characters support each other and break free from their shells, and the restaurant staff become like a family to each other.

Even though The Bear feels a lot like Ted Lasso in many respects, the show is certainly darker, and some of the episodes are quite intense and stressful to watch. However, the greater sense of community and hope is still there, so if you loved Sudeikis' show for that, we definitely recommend giving The Bear a try.

Season 2 of The Bear was released on June 22, and both seasons are now available on Hulu.