The Bear has evolved from a kitchen soap opera to FX's most character-driven series, blending frenetic energy with intelligence. As anticipation for Season 4 builds, a new behind-the-scenes glimpse has emerged—focused more on the ensemble cast. In a recent interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live, actress Ayo Edebiri revealed some details about the upcoming season of Sydney Adamu's show. When asked which episode she wrote, she said,
"Episode four. I think it's four."
She added,
"That came to happen because we were talking about the season and I feel like a similar thing sort of happened last season where I directed an episode where we were just talking to Chris and Chris sort of has an idea."
While she wouldn't reveal any further details—no title, no plot tease—those four words have created massive hype among fans. This is evident when she said,
"and then I got to co-write it with Lionel Boyce who plays part of the show"
The moment was brief but impactful, shifting conversations about how the show’s actors are becoming part of the creative core. Edebiri’s behind-the-scenes role shows that The Bear is shaped by those who live in its world onscreen.
Ayo Edebiri’s previous writing experience adds depth to The Bear
Ayo Edebiri's writing job may surprise some, but she is well-known in the writers' room. Before her big break on The Bear, she wrote for Big Mouth, where she voiced Missy, and Apple TV+'s Dickinson. Her writing focuses on genuine, character-driven stories, aligning perfectly with The Bear's essence.
Her work on Season 4 may bring some new emotional depth to a show already known for its emotionally nuanced storytelling and well-drawn characters. She receives credit as a writer on The Bear for the first time, which could lead to more collaborations. As one of the show's breakout stars, Edebiri already understands her character's emotional trajectory.
By stepping behind the camera, she is able to shape not only Sydney's trajectory but also the dynamics of the world in The Bear expands.
Lionel Boyce of The Bear: From character development to co-author
Ayo Edebiri did not write the episode alone. She collaborated with Lionel Boyce, who has portrayed Marcus—the brooding yet humble pastry chef—since Season 1. Boyce also has writing credits, having co-founded Loiter Squad and contributed to the Adult Swim sketch show.
She also said,
"I feel like acting has informed my writing so much. Like now that I know what it's like to be on set, it's like, yeah, I think Sidney might just like only want to say mm-hmm during this scene, you know? It's not like a monologue. You didn't get, yeah, you didn't get."
The collaboration between Boyce and Edebiri suggests a unique blend of self-awareness and reality that could make their co-written episode stand out from the other episodes this season.
Although the showrunners have not discussed the details of the episode they wrote, this artistic partnership between Edebiri and Boyce offers a unique dynamic for both the internal cast chemistry and the writers. It remains unclear if the episode will focus on their characters, but together they possess as much knowledge about The Bear's tone and storytelling approach as anyone else on the show. This positions them well to create an outstanding standalone episode.
What does this mean for season 4 of The Bear?
Season 4 of The Bear was filmed back-to-back with Season 3, a production strategy employed by FX to maintain continuity. Although Season 3 premiered on June 27, 2024, no official release date has been announced for Season 4. However, news of cast members Edebiri and Boyce becoming writers suggests that the show is continuing to enhance its internal storytelling mechanisms instead of solely relying on external writers.
It also aligns with a broader industry trend, where writers turned actors are increasingly welcomed into the writers' room or invited to write scripts. In the case of The Bear, this could add even more realism and emotional depth to its already intricate narrative structure. The show has received acclaim for its ability to develop characters through immersive and intimate storytelling. The Edebiri-Boyce collaboration might contribute to one of the season's most introspective episodes.
A writer's room that picks up on inside voices of The Bear
The showrunner team, led by Christopher Storer and Joanna Calo, has always encouraged input from the inside out. Guest directors like Ramy Youssef and A-list actor cameos have allowed The Bear to embrace varied voices and visions. Edebiri’s involvement in the writing process is another step in that direction. As an actor who has been part of the emotional heartbeat of the show since its inception, she brings insights that only someone within the character’s world could offer.
Her co-credit also signifies a shift in how actor-driven series approach creative development. While most series keep writing and acting as separate domains, The Bear blurs those boundaries to foster authentic storytelling. This allows one to write not just for the screen, but from the inside.
Still no plot details, but expectations are in place about The Bear
Up to now, no details about the plot or theme of the episode co-written by Boyce and Edebiri have been revealed. FX has not released any episode titles or descriptions for Season 4. The only exciting news to hit the internet is that the two lead actors collaborated on an episode. Everyone is wondering if the episode will explore Sydney and Marcus's personal journeys, delve into behind-the-scenes kitchen dynamics, or introduce a totally different subplot.
Until the confirmation arrives, the only information available is what Edebiri herself released: "I think it's four." Those four words are enough to amplify anticipation for what could be one of the season's most emotionally charged episodes.
What do you think about Ayo Edebiri and Lionel Bryce collaborating for an episode? Let us know in the comments below!
For more stories like this, keep following SoapCentral!
Also read: The Bear Season 4 Episode Release Schedule: When do all the new episodes drop