“Gary” concludes Season 5 with a jaw-dropping finale. Written by Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Jon Bernthal, the surprise “The Bear” episode “Gary” revisits a chaotic work trip Richie and Mikey took to Gary, Indiana. As their mission unravels due to their worst instincts, Mikey publicly chastises Richie, resulting in Richie missing his daughter’s birth. The episode, set before Season 1, features a startling coda that sets up Season 5’s narrative. The scene transitions from Richie and Mikey in a car to Richie alone in the present day. As Richie drives, he’s hit by another car, leaving viewers wondering if he survives.
Despite the cliffhanger, it’s unlikely “The Bear” will eliminate Richie in a surprise episode, especially before its final season. Richie’s accident could be a pivotal Season 5 event. At Season 4’s end, Carmy left the restaurant to heal, giving control to Sydney, Richie, and Natalie. Carmy’s return might be prompted by Richie’s condition and supporting the restaurant’s team, bridging Carmy’s journey back.
While the car crash cliffhanger borders on soap opera territory, it serves as a transition for Season 5. However, placing such a significant moment in a standalone episode may dilute its impact, as it shifts focus from Mikey and Richie to the crash’s implications. “Gary” is available on Hulu, with “The Bear” Season 5 debuting this June.