FX’s culinary drama The Bear returned on June 25, 2025, with its fourth season, drawing a spectrum of critical responses. Rotten Tomatoes reported an 80 % critic approval rating based on 50 reviews—a notable dip from 100 % in Season 1 and 99 % in Season 2, making this its lowest-rated season to date. Metacritic placed Season 4 at a respectable 72/100 .

Some reviewers praised the season’s shift toward a calmer, more reflective tone. The Daily Beast called it a “mature masterpiece,” highlighting its emotional nuance and growth in character arcs, while Roger Ebert’s review applauded a lyrical, dialogue-free kitchen sequence and more joyful pacing. /Film noted that Season 4 “cooks again,” balancing humor, drama, and raw performances, even if some narrative momentum lags.

However, critics also flagged shortcomings. Variety and Vanity Fair described the season as “tired” and “inert,” acknowledging strong performances but lamenting sluggish plotting . Paste described Season 4 as an exhausted, slower-paced installment that reflects burnout—appropriate for the characters, but less gripping.

Overall, The Bear Season 4 is viewed as a thoughtful, character-driven evolution. It may not match its predecessors in critical acclaim, but it offers depth and maturity that resonate—especially for fans invested in its chaotic yet heartfelt world.