UK audiences can now devour the first season of the critically lauded drama 'The Bear' for free on the ITVX streaming platform. This marks a significant addition for British viewers, as the series was previously exclusive to Disney Plus.
A Recipe for Success: What is 'The Bear' About?
First premiering in 2022, the series features Jeremy Allen White (known for Shameless) in the lead role of Carmen 'Carmy' Berzatto. The plot follows this award-winning chef as he leaves his prestigious career in Michelin-starred kitchens to return to his native Chicago. His mission: to take over his late brother's struggling Italian beef sandwich shop following Michael's suicide.
The premise sets the stage for a high-intensity, character-driven story. Carmy must navigate his brother's unresolved debts, a chaotic and rundown kitchen, and a defiant staff, all while grappling with profound personal grief and family trauma.
Feast of Critical Acclaim and Viewer Praise
Despite its seemingly simple setup, the show's first season was met with immediate and rapturous praise. Critics hailed it as 'the best workplace drama since Mad Men', with reviews highlighting its unique blend of stress, beauty, and emotional depth.
Publication Pajiba noted the show's palpable tension, writing that 'the stress is nearly too much to bear' but that it ultimately delivers 'a delectable offering designed to feed the soul'. Mashable compared the series to a perfect dish, where 'every element... combines to create a delectable treat'. Meanwhile, The Atlantic described the experience as 'horrifically stressful' yet also 'thrilling, ambitious, funny, and devastating'.
Viewers were equally effusive, with many declaring it the best show on television. One fan, Michael, called it 'across the board perfection', while Sarah praised the 'excellent cast' and 'compelling story' that 'makes you hungry for more'.
ITVX's 'Taste of Disney Plus' Initiative
The arrival of The Bear on ITVX is part of a broader three-month partnership called 'A Taste of Disney Plus'. This initiative will see a curated selection of Disney programmes become available on the UK streaming service, with the lineup being regularly refreshed.
Following The Bear, upcoming releases include:
- Black Cake (available from January 14)
- Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All (from January 21)
- Marvel Studios' She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (from February 11)
- Will Trent (from February 18)
The series itself has become an awards juggernaut, having secured 21 Emmy Awards and five Golden Globes across its run. Its ensemble cast includes standout performances from Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, and notable guest stars such as Olivia Colman, Bob Odenkirk, and Jamie Lee Curtis. The late Hollywood director Rob Reiner also made his final television appearance in season four.
Future of the Series
The Bear has already released four seasons, with the most recent airing in June 2025. A fifth season is confirmed and on the way. When announcing the renewal in July 2025, FX Chairman John Landgraf celebrated the show as a 'fan favourite worldwide' with 'spectacular' viewership, crediting creator Chris Storer and the team for consistently making 'one of the best shows on television'.
For UK viewers eager to start this culinary and emotional journey, the first season of 'The Bear' is now streaming for free on ITVX, while all existing seasons remain available on Disney Plus.
