After making waves with her directorial debut on the critically acclaimed episode “Napkins,” Emmy winner Ayo Edebiri is expanding her creative role on The Bear. The Chicago-set FX series returns this June for its highly anticipated fourth season, and Deadline has confirmed that Edebiri and co-star Lionel Boyce have co-written an episode together — a first for the series’ cast.
Edebiri, who plays sous chef Sydney Adamu, is the only cast member to have directed for the series. Her direction on Season 3, Episode 6 earned her a DGA nomination for Outstanding Directorial Achievement in Comedy. Now, with Boyce — who portrays pastry chef Marcus — joining her in the writers’ room, the duo becomes the only cast members to have writing credits on the show.
In a forthcoming episode of Crew Call, Edebiri remained tight-lipped about the details of the episode. However, it’s been revealed that Sydney will face a major decision in Season 4, having received a job offer from a competing restaurant just as The Bear faces a period of instability.
Edebiri’s directorial episode “Napkins” was widely praised for its emotional depth. It served as a prequel of sorts, following Tina (Liza Colón-Zayas) as she navigates life after being laid off from a candy factory job of 15 years. A chance visit to the Original Beef introduces her to Michael Berzatto (Jon Bernthal), whose touching 11-minute conversation offers Tina both a sandwich and a new beginning. The episode not only broadened the show’s emotional palette but also cemented Edebiri’s status as a rising multihyphenate.
Boyce, who was nominated for an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series last year, has become a fan favorite for his layered portrayal of Marcus, a character whose quiet resilience and artistic passion have added heart to the show’s chaotic kitchen dynamic.
Season 4 is expected to premiere in June. In addition to The Bear, Edebiri’s star continues to rise with major roles in Disney’s Inside Out 2, A24’s Opus, James L. Brooks’ Ella McCay, and Luca Guadagnino’s After the Hunt.
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