The Bear Season 4 Review Roundup: Critics Weigh In on Carmy’s Kitchen Comeback

The Bear Season 4 is heating up as critics and fans dissect the latest chapter of FX’s Emmy-winning dramedy, which dropped on Hulu on June 25, 2025.

After a polarizing third season, Season 4 brings Carmy (Jeremy Allen White), Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), and the Chicago restaurant crew back to tackle unresolved tensions and a critical Tribune review.

From praise for its emotional depth to critiques of its pacing, here’s a comprehensive look at the reactions, reviews, and what makes this season a pivotal moment for the series.

What Are Critics Saying About The Bear Season 4?

The Bear Season 4 Review Roundup reveals a mixed but largely positive response, with a 71% score on Rotten Tomatoes based on 42 reviews, marking the series’ lowest critical rating yet.

Critics laud the show’s return to character-driven storytelling, with Rolling Stone calling it “tense, heartwarmingly chaotic, and satisfying” after Season 3’s uneven narrative.

The Guardian stands out, praising the season’s tender evolution, stating it’s “outgrown the ‘Yes, chef!’ rages” for something “beautiful and endlessly moving.” However, outlets like TIME argue it feels “frustratingly inert,” suggesting the show struggles to recapture the spark of Seasons 1 and 2.

How Does Season 4 Address Season 3’s Shortcomings?

Season 3 faced backlash for its melancholy tone and thin plotlines, leaving fans hungry for resolution. The Bear Season 4 Review Roundup highlights efforts to course-correct. IGN notes the season “relocates its storytelling sweet spot” by focusing on the ensemble and Carmy’s redemption arc.

Key moments, like Sydney’s emotional response to her father’s heart attack, give Ayo Edebiri standout scenes, while Carmy’s attempts to mend relationships with Sydney and Claire (Molly Gordon) add depth. Yet, Mashable critiques the season’s “Groundhog Day-style time loop,” pointing to repetitive pacing issues.

Who Shines in the Cast of The Bear Season 4?

The Bear Season 4 Review Roundup unanimously praises the cast. Jeremy Allen White delivers a “devastatingly vulnerable” performance, per Rotten Tomatoes, balancing Carmy’s intensity with newfound introspection. Ayo Edebiri and Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Richie) also earn raves, with Sydney and Richie’s evolving dynamic anchoring the season.

Supporting players like Abby Elliott (Natalie) and Oliver Platt (Uncle Jimmy) add emotional weight, while guest stars, including Jamie Lee Curtis as Donna, elevate key episodes. Critics on X, like @RottenTomatoes, highlight the ensemble’s ability to keep the show “highly watchable.”

What Are the Key Themes and Storylines in Season 4?

The Bear Season 4 Review Roundup emphasizes themes of family, redemption, and resilience. The season picks up after Season 3’s cliffhanger, addressing the Tribune review’s impact on the restaurant’s fate.

Sydney’s career dilemma—whether to stay with The Bear or join a new venture with chef Adam Shapiro—drives much of the drama.

The New York Times notes the restaurant’s struggle to balance comfort food and haute cuisine mirrors the show’s creative challenges.

Emotional highs, like Sydney’s hospital breakdown with Claire, resonate, though some critics, like Forbes, argue the season’s resolution feels incomplete.

Why Is Season 4 a Divisive Yet Compelling Watch?

The Bear Season 4 Review Roundup reflects a divide: some see it as a triumphant return, others a missed opportunity. The Atlantic calls it “exactly what the show needed,” praising its focus on relationships.

Conversely, Collider suggests it’s time to end the series, citing a satisfying but conclusive arc.

Fans on X are split, with @aherman2006 calling it a “Season 3 do-over” that doesn’t fully recover. Still, the season’s cinematic visuals, tuneful soundtrack, and emotional stakes keep viewers hooked, even if it doesn’t match the highs of earlier seasons.

Highlights of The Bear Season 4:

• Premiere Date: June 25, 2025, on Hulu with 10 episodes.

• Lead Stars: Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, Ebon Moss-Bachrach.

• Supporting Cast: Abby Elliott, Oliver Platt, Jamie Lee Curtis (guest).

• Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71%, Certified Fresh with 42 reviews.

• Key Themes: Family, redemption, restaurant survival.

• Rating: TV-MA for language and intense themes.

Some Closing Thoughts:

The Bear Season 4 Review Roundup paints a picture of a show striving to reclaim its magic after a rocky third season.

With powerhouse performances, emotional depth, and a renewed focus on its ensemble, Season 4 delivers moments of brilliance, even if it doesn’t fully satisfy all critics.

Stream it on Hulu now, join the conversation on X, and see why The Bear remains a cultural juggernaut in 2025.