“The Bear ”Star Matty Matheson Confirms Paul Rudd’s Secret Cameo: ‘I Thought Everyone Did Know’ (Exclusive)

**Paul Rudd’s Secret Cameo in Hit Series ‘The Bear’ Revealed by Matty Matheson**

Renowned actor Paul Rudd, known for his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and various comedies, has quietly contributed to the FX series ‘The Bear’ with an uncredited voice cameo that has sparked intrigue among fans. Matty Matheson, a prominent figure in the culinary world and an actor on the show, recently shared insights into this delightful Easter egg during an interview with PEOPLE.

In the first season of ‘The Bear’, viewers were treated to a brief but memorable moment in episode eight, where the character Neil Fak, portrayed by Matheson, experiences a hallucinatory encounter with a character from the show’s retro arcade game, Ballbreaker. While some fans had speculated about the identity of the voice, Matheson confirmed that it indeed belongs to Rudd.

“I thought everyone did know,” Matheson remarked, revealing his surprise at the public’s lack of awareness regarding Rudd’s involvement. The connection between Rudd and Christopher Storer, the creator of ‘The Bear’, is a close one, which led to the star’s cameo. “Paul and Chris are very good buddies,” Matheson elaborated, suggesting that Rudd’s inclusion was a light-hearted nod to friendship.

‘The Bear’ has captured audiences since its debut in 2022, following the journey of Carmy, played by Jeremy Allen White, as he attempts to renovate his late brother’s struggling restaurant in Chicago into a fine dining experience. The series is lauded for its authentic portrayal of the culinary world and the complex dynamics of family.

In addition to his voice cameo, Rudd’s presence can be spotted in various other instances throughout the show, often in the form of Easter eggs. One notable appearance features a photograph of Rudd, humorously signed “Paul Rubb,” which can be seen in the second season opener displayed alongside images of other famous diners who have visited the fictional eatery. Furthermore, a life-sized cardboard cutout of Rudd was introduced in season three, adding to his playful cameos.

Matheson explained that the moniker “Paul Rubb” originated from a humorous mishap during a past encounter with the actor. “Rubb was the joke,” he recalled. “I met Paul Rudd once — well, I didn’t really meet him, but he was walking away from me — and I said, ‘Hi, Paul Rubb.’ And Chris heard me. He was like, ‘Did you just call him Paul Rubb?’” The anecdote has since become a charming inside joke between the show’s cast and crew.

The recurring cardboard cutout of Rudd makes a peculiar but fitting appearance in the season five premiere, playing a role in a dramatic scene involving the Fak brothers. During an intense moment where the brothers are confronted with a plumbing issue, Neil asks about the noises coming from the cutout, leading to a humorous exchange: “Don’t f— with me, Rubb,” Ted warns. As the situation escalates, the episode captures an uncomfortable yet entertaining moment, showcasing the series’ blend of humour and tension.

Reflecting on his experiences working on ‘The Bear’, Matheson expressed his gratitude for the show and its characters. “I have loved making people happy,” he said, conveying his pride in the portrayal of complex characters and the ability to create a series that balances fun with emotional depth.

All episodes of ‘The Bear’ are currently available to stream on Hulu, with new episodes airing weekly on FX. The series has not only entertained audiences but has also ignited conversations about the restaurant industry, personal ambitions, and the connections that define us.

As fans continue to unravel the layers of humour and heart within ‘The Bear’, Paul Rudd’s cameo serves as a reminder of the show’s charm and the camaraderie that exists behind the scenes, further enhancing its appeal.