Story perspectives

FX Drops “Gary” Prequel, Bernthal Explores Mikey’s Struggles

5/9/2026

Summary

Mikey Prequel

FX released a surprise prequel episode titled “Gary” for the series “The Bear.”
Jon Bernthal and Ebon Moss-Bachrach co-wrote and starred as Mikey and Richie in the hour-long prequel set five years earlier.
The episode shows Mikey’s mental-health struggles and his doubt that Richie will be a good father.
“Gary” streams on Hulu, FX and Disney+ as a standalone feature before the final season debuts June 25 2026.

Summary

Bernthal Script

Jon Bernthal says the “Gary” script was finished before the Punisher special.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach describes their writing process as a free flow of creativity without any deadline pressure.
They finished each other’s sentences, sent drafts to producer Chris Storer, and received his approval quickly.
Both emphasize mutual trust in each other’s artistic taste, which guided scenes such as the beat where Mikey’s hug turns into a physical clash.

Summary

Storer Reshapes Episode

Christopher Storer directed the “Gary” episode with a largely hands-off style, offering only a few script notes.
He reshaped the parking-lot conversation, turning a detailed kick discussion into a casual beer-sipping chat.
Moss-Bachrach recalled that filming the basketball scene left her breathless, saying she thought she would die.
The creators framed the episode as a memory piece through Richie’s perspective, leaving the bathroom dialogue unanswered to blur fact and imagination.

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Mikey Prequel

FX released a surprise prequel episode titled “Gary” for the series “The Bear.”
Jon Bernthal and Ebon Moss-Bachrach co-wrote and starred as Mikey and Richie in the hour-long prequel set five years earlier.
The episode shows Mikey’s mental-health struggles and his doubt that Richie will be a good father.
“Gary” streams on Hulu, FX and Disney+ as a standalone feature before the final season debuts June 25 2026.

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