The Redemptive-Self Portrayed Through Richie Jerimovich’s Character in The Bear (2022)

Abstract

This study examines the construction of Richie Jerimovich’s redemptive self in the television series The Bear (2022) through Dan P. McAdams’ theory of redemptive narrative. The research aims to identify the redemptive narrative themes reflected in Richie’s character development and analyze how these themes collectively function in shaping his narrative identity throughout the series. Using content analysis, this study analyzes selected episode from Seasons 1 and 2 through narrative and “mise-en-scéne” analysis, focusing on elements such as lighting, costume, framing, blocking, and spatial organization. The findings reveal that Richie’s character arc reflects six themes of redemptive narrative proposed by McAdams: Early Advantage, Suffering of Others, Moral Depth and Steadfastness, Redemption, Power Versus Love, Future Growth. Early Advantage is reflected through Richie’s familiarity and interpersonal closeness within The Beef, while Suffering of Others and Moral Depth and Steadfastness emerge through his experiences with grief, loyalty, and instability. The theme of Redemption becomes most visible when Richie reconstructs his sense of self through discipline, hospitality, and service. Meanwhile, Power Versus Love is reflected in his shift from seeking significance through authority and resistance toward finding meaning through attentiveness and relational care. Finally, Future Growth is demonstrated through the continuity of Richie’s behavioral and emotional transformation in later episodes. Collectively, these themes construct Richie’s redemptive self as an ongoing process of identity reconstruction shaped by emotional struggle, interpersonal relationship, and sustained behavioral change.