Ebon Moss-Bachrach, popularly known for his role as Richard ‘Richie’ Jerimovich on the Hulu drama The Bear, recently won an Emmy for his role, in January. Ever since then the actor has been celebrated for his compelling portrayal in the comedy series that quickly became a fan-favorite binge-watch.
However, reflecting on his experiences with fan attention and his thoughts on The Bear’s success, Ebon Moss-Bachrach recalled the tumultuous turn of events following his Emmy win. Stating how his win should have been a crowning achievement for him, Moss-Bachrach noted that it thus marked a daunting challenge for his character.
Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s Emmy Win Turned into a Nightmare
Ahead of appearing in the FX on Hulu comedy series The Bear, Ebon Moss-Bachrach cemented his career with both indie darlings and mainstream hits like No Hard Feelings, Andor, and The Punisher. But unlike most of his roles where he was underutilized and underappreciated, FX’s phenomenally successful TV show offered the actor a scope for broader recognition.
Playing the role of loudmouth “cousin” Richie in The Bear, Ebon Moss-Bachrach added depth to the storyline dealing with a dysfunctional family of chefs struggling to keep a rundown sandwich joint going. With his iconic role, Moss-Bachrach pretty much captivated audiences with every scene he was in. Eventually, that led the star to walk away with an Emmy in the process.
Prior to the release of The Bear season 3 in June, Ebon Moss-Bachrach won an Emmy for his outstanding performance, in January 2024. Speaking with The Guardian, the actor thus reflected on his achievement and revealed the impact of the show on his career and life. But while he described the night of winning the coveted award as his most joyous experience, Moss-Bachrach also reflected on the stress that followed.
[It was] one of the most joyful nights of my life… but beyond that it just kind of stressed me out, because then we go back to make season three and we’ve won a bunch of awards, you start to feel like: ‘Oh, f*ck.’ I mean, then you really don’t want to be discovered to be a fraud. And then there’s pressure…
While receiving the prestigious award was a crowning achievement for Ebon Moss-Bachrach, little did he anticipate the weight of expectations that would accompany him as he prepared to return for The Bear Season 3.
Despite the Pressure, Ebon Moss-Bachrach is Grateful for The Bear
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, acclaimed for his role in The Bear, found himself in a unique predicament following his Emmy win. The accolade, which should have been a moment of celebration, instead heightened the pressure on him as he prepared for the next season of the beloved series. Shortly after winning the award, fans’ expectations came rushing which thus forced the actor under intense scrutiny.
Thereafter, maintaining the high standards set by previous seasons became a formidable challenge for Ebon Moss-Bachrach. The Emmy win not only validated the actor’s talent and hard work but also raised the bar for his future performances. But despite the challenges and the daunting prospect that awaited Moss-Bachrach, the actor admitted being grateful for the achievement as well as the show.
Not that I feel like I need to win another Emmy or anything, but I just feel like The Bear means so much to people, you know, so much more than I ever thought it would. And I just want people to not feel let down by the thing.
I’ve had so many beautiful interactions with people that have been really moved in a way that it sort of inspired me about the power of telling a story or the power of making a show or making a piece of art. It’s really invigorated me and renewed my faith in my job… I feel very fortunate in a time where work is really tight in my business. I just feel very privileged.
Navigating the aftermath of accolades, Ebon Moss-Bachrach undoubtedly lived up to people’s expectations in The Bear season 3. Managing public perception and keeping up with the pressure, the actor successfully carved out a distinctive path in the world of television and beyond.
The Bear is available on Hulu.
