FX’s ‘The Bear’ exploded onto our screens, serving up a raw, unflinching look at the chaotic, high-pressure world of a Chicago sandwich shop. With its frenetic pace, deeply flawed yet compelling characters, and an almost palpable sense of anxiety mixed with passion, the series quickly became a critical and audience darling. If you found yourself captivated by Carmy’s relentless pursuit of perfection amidst personal and professional turmoil, or the intense, almost claustrophobic chemistry of his makeshift kitchen family, you’re probably craving something similar.
The magic of ‘The Bear’ isn’t just in its culinary setting; it’s in the expertly crafted blend of high-stakes pressure, character-driven drama, unexpected humor, and the sheer emotional intensity of people trying to survive and thrive in challenging environments. Luckily, the TV landscape is rich with shows that capture various facets of ‘The Bear’s’ unique flavor. So, if you’re ready to sink your teeth into another intense, character-rich series, here are 10 shows that will satisfy your craving.
1. Succession
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: While swapping a sandwich shop for a global media empire, ‘Succession’ matches ‘The Bear’s’ intensity with its high-stakes, cutthroat environment and deeply dysfunctional family dynamics. The Roy siblings’ constant struggle for power and validation from their patriarch, Logan, mirrors the Berzatto family’s complex relationships and internal conflicts. Expect razor-sharp dialogue, masterful performances, and a constant undercurrent of stress that will leave you breathless.
2. Shameless (US)
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: If the chaotic, loving-but-dysfunctional family at the heart of ‘The Bear’ resonated with you, then the Gallagher family of ‘Shameless’ is your next stop. This series dives deep into poverty, addiction, and the lengths a family will go to survive, often with darkly comedic undertones. It captures the raw, gritty realism and emotional depth that makes ‘The Bear’ so compelling, albeit in a different setting.
3. Industry
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: For the sheer intensity of a high-pressure professional environment and young characters trying to prove themselves, ‘Industry’ is a perfect fit. Set in the ruthless world of London’s high finance, this show throws its ambitious protagonists into the deep end, forcing them to navigate demanding clients, cutthroat colleagues, and personal demons, all under immense pressure. It’s exhilarating and anxiety-inducing in the best way.
4. Barry
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: While the premise (a hitman trying to become an actor) seems far removed from a kitchen, ‘Barry’ shares ‘The Bear’s’ blend of dark humor, sudden bursts of violence, and a protagonist grappling with profound internal conflict and a desire for change. Both shows feature high-stakes situations, morally complex characters, and a unique, often uncomfortable, energy that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
5. Mad Men
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: If you appreciated ‘The Bear’s’ focus on the mastery of a craft and the complex internal lives of its characters, ‘Mad Men’ will be a revelation. Set in the cutthroat advertising world of the 1960s, it explores ambition, identity, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Don Draper’s enigmatic nature and his team’s professional highs and lows offer a similar blend of character-driven drama and high-pressure work dynamics.
6. Better Call Saul
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: The prequel to ‘Breaking Bad’, ‘Better Call Saul’ is a masterclass in character study, much like ‘The Bear’. It meticulously chronicles Jimmy McGill’s transformation into Saul Goodman, showcasing his meticulous (and often morally ambiguous) dedication to his craft. The tension, detailed process, and the slow burn of a character’s journey through a high-stakes professional world will appeal to fans of Carmy’s relentless perfectionism.
7. The Queen’s Gambit
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: This limited series captures the intense focus and dedication to mastering a skill that we see in Carmy. Beth Harmon’s journey through the competitive world of chess is fraught with personal demons and high-stakes matches. The show beautifully portrays the mental fortitude required, the pressure of competition, and the singular obsession with a craft, making it a compelling watch for those who loved ‘The Bear’s’ professional passion.
8. Hacks
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: ‘Hacks’ centers on the unlikely mentorship between an aging comedy legend and a young, disgraced writer. It offers a fascinating look into the demanding world of stand-up comedy, filled with the pressure to constantly create and perform. The dynamic between the two leads, their professional clashes, and their emotional growth will remind viewers of Carmy’s difficult relationships and his pursuit of artistic excellence.
9. Chef’s Table
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: While a documentary series, ‘Chef’s Table’ delves deep into the minds and kitchens of the world’s most renowned chefs. Each episode is a visually stunning and emotionally rich portrait of culinary artists, their passion, their struggles, their relentless pursuit of perfection, and the immense pressure they face. If ‘The Bear’ made you appreciate the artistry and dedication behind the food, ‘Chef’s Table’ will deepen that appreciation tenfold.
10. Peaky Blinders
Why it’s like ‘The Bear’: If the intense family loyalty, ambition, and high-stakes drama of the Berzattos resonated, then the Shelby crime family of ‘Peaky Blinders’ is a perfect next binge. Set in post-WWI Birmingham, this series follows Tommy Shelby’s ruthless ascent to power. It’s grimy, stylish, and packed with constant tension, emotional turmoil, and the fierce bonds of a dysfunctional family fighting to control their destiny.
Each of these shows, in its own unique way, captures the raw energy, compelling character dynamics, and high-stakes environments that made ‘The Bear’ such a captivating watch. So, grab your remote, settle in, and prepare for your next intense binge-watching experience!