‘The Bear’ Season 3 Had A Few Things Missing

Speaking of guest stars, I was so happy they brought back Olivia Colman, who was my favorite guest star of the last season. I thought the arc of her character, chef Terry, closing her acclaimed restaurant, prompting everyone to reevaluate their own career choices and what legacy they want to leave behind, was so well thought out. I liked that it brought up some real-life issues in the restaurant industry. I also liked that it allowed for the return of a lot of other side characters from Season 2, like Will Poulter as Luca and Richie’s colleagues from his internship, with whom he had such a lovely bond. And that final moment between Carmy and chef Terry really warmed my heart. We hadn’t really seen them interact before, but it has always been clear from the flashbacks that she had a profound impact on him as a chef. I wrote last week about how many of the best parts of this show are about mentorship, and this was one of those moments that really got to me.

Also, her being the life of the party at the end of Episode 10? I wrote in my notes, “I just want to do shots with Olivia Colman.” — Marina

OMG, yes! I was like, “How do I get to party with Olivia?” She was living it up! I do love the real chef cameos on the show, too. I’ve seen Daniel Boulud as a guest judge so many times on “Top Chef” that I immediately knew his name when he popped up. But I agree with you, Marina. When John Cena popped up, I was like, “OK, now, I’ve had enough!” He also came in when there were just too many other characters who yell, and my ears were yelling, “Make it stop!” And I can’t say this enough: I don’t ever want to see chef David (Joel McHale) again! — Erin

Lol, same, re: Daniel Boulud. — Marina

My one complaint about the real chefs on “The Bear,” though? That scene in the final episode where they are all talking about their work is so damn long. It made me understand why Carmy was so fixated on his nemesis. He was too bored with the actual conversation before him. — Erin

I get that seeing these real chefs reflect on their experiences informs how Carmy and Sydney are thinking at this moment in the show about their respective futures. But this went on for so long! Get to the point. — Marina