The Surprising Connection Between Taylor Swift and Ebon Moss-Bachrach in Season 2

The Bear garnered an immense following right from its debut season, instantly becoming a sensation. Season 2 seamlessly continues the story, starting just days after the conclusion of the first season. The employees of the Original Beef of Chicagoland are now fully engrossed in transforming it into Carmy's ultimate vision: The Bear restaurant. However, as expected, obstacles arise, forcing the team to question their true desires.

Richard "Richie" Jerimovich (played by Ebon Moss-Bachrach) is still grappling with the overwhelming grief from losing his close friend Mike. Consequently, the task of completely changing his surroundings proves to be a significant challenge. While season 1 hinted at Richie's role as a father, season 2 delves even deeper into this aspect of his life. All ten episodes of The Bear season 2 are currently available for streaming on Hulu.

Screen Rant interviewed Ebon Moss-Bachrach to discuss the highly anticipated second season of The Bear. During the interview, Moss-Bachrach shared his vision for his character, Richie, and also revealed how the team ingeniously incorporated Taylor Swift into the storyline. Additionally, he expressed his interest in reprising his role as David Linus Lieberman, also known as Microchip, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach on The Bear Season 2

Screen Rant: Congratulations on a successful season 1! How did you feel when it got the reaction that it did?

At the beginning of season 2, fans can find Richie in a new and unexpected situation.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach: In season 2, Richie is still grappling with his struggles and grieving from the events of season 1. Although we see a heartwarming epilogue of the family gathering for a dinner and cherishing each other's company, Richie's experience goes beyond that.

Screen Rant: One particularly impactful moment is when Mike's Fenway poster gets torn. Could you elaborate on the significance of this moment for Richie?

I believe that scene perfectly captures his sense of paranoia regarding his previous world and the eradication of Michael. It emphasizes the fragility of things and how easily they can be destroyed. While Fenway Park may appear to be just a replica to some, there is so much more beneath the surface that holds great importance. In his eyes, this exemplifies the indifference and bold disregard that the younger generation exhibits as they move forward without acknowledging the significance of history.

Furthermore, when considering the locker incident, it appears that everything he has been familiar with is transforming into something entirely different.

What was it like for Richie to experience fatherhood firsthand this season?

Ebon Moss-Bachrach: Oh, you got to see those scenes?

Screen Rant: Yes! Where he's trying to unbuckle her in the car seat.

I was relieved that you noticed that! When I first saw it, I was worried that the car seat wasn't visible enough and it might look like I was struggling with the seatbelt. It's a universal struggle for any parent, those car seats are just terrible. So, I was really happy to have that scene in the show.

I have to say, the young actor in that scene was fantastic. It was a small but sweet moment that felt very genuine. One of the things I love about Chris' writing is how sometimes a little goes a long way, especially when it comes to family moments. In the first season, there was a scene where I was on the phone, and you only saw my side of the conversation, but I think it really helped humanize a character who can be unsympathetic at times. And now, we finally got to meet Eva.

I'll never forget that moment on set. We had already filmed numerous scenes, capturing her perspective, and we were about to film the final take from my point of view. Suddenly, Chris, who doesn't have kids of his own, called out to me. He suggested, "Maybe as she walks away, you could say, 'I love you, and you know I adore Taylor Swift, but I just needed a break.'" The words struck me like lightning. It was such a profound line of dialogue that encapsulated everything perfectly and felt incredibly authentic. I couldn't help but be impressed by Chris's ability to come up with such a relatable moment of a father in his car.

My husband can totally relate to that sentiment. After my daughters and I have been listening to Taylor Swift non-stop for weeks, he feels the same way. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore Taylor Swift, but it's been quite overwhelming.

Taylor Swift fans, known as Swifties, have every reason to rejoice as they discover that their beloved artist will be making an appearance in the upcoming season of The Bear. But the exciting news doesn't end there. Ebon Moss-Bachrach, an actor in the show, hints that Taylor's involvement extends beyond just a single appearance. While he doesn't make any grand promises, he tantalizingly suggests that there may be more to look forward to.

I hope Richie discovers a sense of purpose and finds genuine connections with others, whether it's through a romantic partner, a friend, or a colleague. Currently, he appears to be detached from everyone, and I would love to see him feel needed and valued in his relationships.

Screen Rant: What aspect of The Bear season 2 are you most eager for fans to witness?

Ebon Moss-Bachrach: This season, in my opinion, delves deeper into introspection. It possesses a more contemplative tone right from the beginning. Characters are focused on the process of creation, navigation, and discovering the essence of something, rather than simply dismantling a problem. They genuinely strive to build something meaningful. This endeavor necessitates a period of self-reflection. What message do I wish to convey? What do I aspire to construct? How do I desire to treat others?

I am eagerly anticipating the remaining episodes as I have only viewed the initial three.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach​​​​​​​: Did you like it?

Screen Rant: I loved it! It was great to be back with these characters and get to dive deeper into it all.

Ebon Moss-Bachrach: I'm genuinely intrigued to discover the reactions and thoughts of people regarding our work, especially since we created it without revealing our identities. Now, it feels like we're on the other side of that overwhelming response. There's a sense of nervousness, hoping that we don't let down the audience. Personally, I am immensely grateful for the love and support it has garnered, and I am determined to show my appreciation to the fans of the show.

Is that a Marvel chair you're sitting in?

Ebon Moss-Bachrach expressed openness to reprising his role as Microchip, also known as David Lieberman, in light of the Marvel multiverse expanding. He acknowledged the challenging days on set in the cold studio in Greenpoint, where he was physically restrained and manipulated by John. Despite this, he remains open to the idea of returning to the role.

About The Bear Season 2

Season 2 of FX's critically acclaimed original series, The Bear, follows Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto, Sydney Adamu, and Richard "Richie" Jerimovich as they embark on a transformative journey to elevate their rundown sandwich joint. Stripping the restaurant down to its core, the crew not only confronts their own pasts but also contemplates their future selves.

Running a restaurant proves to be a challenging endeavor, but opening a new one takes it to a whole new level. The team finds themselves juggling the complexities of permits and contractors while also delving into the creative process of menu planning. This transition also brings a renewed focus on the importance of hospitality. As the entire staff is pushed to their limits, they discover the true meaning of service, both to their customers and to one another.

Check out our other The Bear Season 2 interview here:

Lionel Boyce

Liza Colón-Zayas

The Bear season 2 is now streaming in its entirety on Hulu.