Why the Cameos in The Bear are so Impactful

 

The Bear changed the way modern audiences see a good cameo. Many are used to these massive connected universes using a pre-existing character to get a cheap reaction out of their fans. However, The Bear does something different. These cameos are from well-known actors, but they each serve a purpose in the story. In many cases, our main characters has pre-existing relationships with these characters even though we as an audience have never seen them. We are familiar with these actors, so therefore we are excited or more intrigued in what their characters is going to do and what role they play in the story. Even though we are probably referring to the character as "Sarah Paulson" or "Bob Odenkirk", we are still dying to see what they do next. It gives us more skin in the game. 

These cameos were not something new to the show's second season, they just upped their game. Season 1 saw the likes of Jon Bernthal and Joel McHale, just to name a couple, playing an integral part in the story's narrative. We may not exactly be mourning the loss of Michael Berzatto, but we are mourning the fact that we could have had more Jon Bernthal in this series. 

It also helps us recognize these characters more. For example, if the NYC Chef was not played by Joel McHale, we may not remember exactly who this character is when he shows up for subsequent appearances. It adds more to the relationships we have with these characters, and the characters around them.

This show doesn't just use cameos for the sake of cameos. They choose these power houses to get us invested in these roles and characters. Jamie Lee Curtis as Donna immediately delivers an iconic episode of this series, that will no doubt be talked about for years to come. Fans are eagerly hoping that Curtis will reprise her role in coming seasons of the show. 

Who is your favorite cameo in The Bear? Who would you like to see cast in an upcoming season?