Ebon Moss-Bachrach's RISE: From Girls to Star Wars to The Bear to The MCU

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Discover the fascinating and diverse career of Ebon Moss-Bachrach in this in-depth video essay, from his breakout role as Desi in "Girls" to his Emmy-winning performance as abrasive Cousin Richie in "The Bear," Moss-Bachrach has captivated audiences with his incredible range.
This video explores Ebon's journey from New York theater to starring roles in major TV series and films like "Andor," "Fantastic Four," "The Punisher," and "Girls." Dive into his versatile performances, from tech experts and architects to eccentric boyfriends and historic figures. We'll also touch on his brief appearances in cult classics like “The Royal Tenenbaums” and “American Splendor.”
Join us as we celebrate Ebon Moss-Bachrach's unique talent and dedication to his craft. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more actor career deep dives. A special thanks to our Patreon supporters for making this channel possible! Visit our Patreon for early previews and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
0:00 - Introduction & Patreon
1:25 - First Roles. The Royal Tenenbaums, American Splendor
2:27 - Law & Order
3:12 - Mona Lisa Smile, Stealth, The Lake House
4:13 - Wedding Daze
5:31 - John Adams, Fringe, more TV
6:36 - Come Out and Play
7:58 - Gods Behaving Badly
9:03 - Lola Versus, We'll Never Have Paris
10:04 - Girls
14:46 - The Punisher, Star Wars: Andor
16:45 - The Bear
22:43 - What's Next? The Fantastic Four

[@TokenSelf]

The funny part of Ebon Moss being in Andor is that he already *has* a Star Wars-ass name. 😆

[@thomaschristopherwhite9043]

Oh very.

[@atomicimota7512]

❤❤❤

[@dundeedideley1773]

The Ebon Hawk. I used to fly her around the outer rim worlds

[@ldawg7117]

I firmly believe 'forks' will go down as one of the greatest episodes of television in history.

[@pattyolvera4364]

💯

[@alcook8339]

Forks is my favourite Bear episode. I just love poor Richie so much. He is so sad, and so lost. Everyone is caught up with Carmy’s loss that they're not considering Richies, and all of that is shown in the performance. He's so good!

[@dallastexas5653]

Forks was my favorite until Napkins.

[@devak45167]

It was the perfect episode to follow the panic attack inducing (but also absolutely brilliant) Fishes.

[@Khvalheim10]

Holy mother of god. The number of movies I've seen this man in and didn't realize is insane. Talk about building a career.

[@ladyfoxglove]

Correction for the Bear: He absolutely didn't go to the nearest pizza place. He went to Pequods Pizza - definitely not the closest to River North. The point is he picked his favorite pizza place, he found a connection with the food when he rarely has it.

[@StonedSpagooter]

damn good note

[@Pantsinabucket]

Another small thing, but his ex-wife’s apartment (shown when he drops his daughter off in S2E3) is only a 3 block walk from Pequod’s. As someone who lived in the neighborhood it was wacky as fuck seeing a street I regularly walked down in a major tv show.

[@kelseyraymer8854]

He’s one of those actors where his appearance doesn’t change much through each project, but bc he takes on different roles across genres and is good at it, you rarely recognize him and only see the character.

[@roems6396]

100%. I loved The Punisher, and I never realized he was the same actor until someone pointed out the connection between him and Jon Bernthal on the Bear.

[@robdielemans9189]

His story arc on the Bear is great. He went from obnoxious (for me) to endearing, to respectful in just 2 seasons, can't wait to see what the're doing with season 3.

[@TheBackFocus]

I’m starting it tonight, can’t remember the last time I’ve been this excited for a show. Maybe Better Call Saul

[@EJD339]

There is something so heartbreaking seeing his character in the Bear talking to someone trying his best not to cry. It’s happened like 5 times in the bear and each time I can feel his pain.

[@roems6396]

That is one of the things that always gets to me too. Whenever I see someone red eyed and holding back tears, it makes me tear up.

[@RadicalYue]

I'm with you on the sentiment of Forks being one of my favorite episodes of any TV shows ever. WE as the audience can see that he was the guy who was good with people, but it felt like Richie never realized that there was anything truly good about himself. Everyone else knows what they're good at and they're just getting better, Richie never really knew so when he found it, it was beautiful. Man, I'm crying again.

[@brendan4175]

When you said “coming into their own in their 40s” immediately I thought of John Cena as well, while he’s been famous for such a long time, he’s really come into HIS own acting wise, starting in lower budgeted comedies and then having his own show on max, I think we’re just seeing what cena as an actor has in store as he gets older. I’m predicting this man gets a serious role and absolutely shows up for it

[@TheBackFocus]

I loved seeing him pop up in The Bear. He’s a charismatic dude always down for a silly goose time

[@IjeomaThePlantMama]

I KNEW he was in Mona Lisa Smile! I thought he looked familiar but the glasses threw me off. Im so happy for his success after just hustling for so long

[@papagritty432]

I've seen him in punisher and the bear and also thought that was just how he was. Then it hit me. He's just such a great actor. You hate him because he makes you hate him. You hate him because he's overly arrogant and volatile, but love him when he shows he cares and is worried or distressed. He just knows what he's doing from years of doing it, and I love him for it!

[@sophia_comicart]

His episode ‘forks’ in season 2 of the bear is one of the greatest episodes in TV history and Ebon is utterly outstanding in it. EDIT: just saw everyone else say the same thing. 😅

[@nikkofabi]

Finished the bear marathon lately and is impressed with the actor. ive seen 85% of the movies mentioned here and never realised that ive been watching this guy.

[@applebottomjames]

I’ve watched Forks 3 times and the full series only once. I watched Forks while eating dinner today and now I’m watching this. It’s the perfect episode of a show I’ve seen. I could watch it a thousand times over, he’s phenomenal.

[@meiketorkelson4437]

You really summed this up in the wrap up. One of the reasons I love this channel is it covers "the other guys". Not the A listers, but actors who still light up the screen in their own way. They rarely become megastars but they find success in their own niche. That's something I find very satisfying with their stories. Trying to find my own niche where I'm satisfied. ❤

[@marisapollock4703]

I've almost made a hobby of connecting actors between their works and I've never connected him even though I've seen at least 50% of these films/shows. Now wonder, since based on this compilation he's almost unrecognizable between roles! That's some skill.

[@emmagbates]

This was beautifully done, and I thoroughly enjoyed. Thank you! I got a feeling about Richie right from the begining, that he was profound, warm and a good person with a lot of struggles. And similarly I got a feeling about Ebon Moss Bachrach as an actor, his talent resilience and versatility. Nice to see both confirmed. Awesome video ❤

[@Magdalena8008s]

He's spectacular. I can't wait to see what he brings to Fantastic Four. It's Kevin Feige's baby. That alone gives me faith in the film. But the cast they got. That tells me there is something special in that script. And you'd be silly not to say yes to it. And I loved Fringe. Forgot he was in that. And hey, I know those who know love Fringe. And it has become a cult hit. But I'm baffled more people haven't gone back to watch, and it become bigger than ever. I'm not saying every season was spectacular. But almost. I watched it all again recently and it holds up for the most part. Regarding Girls. It's great. No matter how you feel about Lena. It's objectively a well made show. And you have to give credit where it's due. It's not for everyone. Absolutely. But any reasonable film fan should at least give it props.

[@djstarsign]

This is an outstanding video. And I just want to get up out of my seat, applaud and salute this channel for nailing it so perfectly. It’s the first video I’ve seen and I liked and subscribed. Excellent job (bowing out of respect). With that said, I didn’t realize how many movies and shows I’d seen this actor in for decades and he really only got my attention for his role in Andor. I had no idea he was the bellhop in Tennenbaums and I always loved that scene. I should give Girls a shot, knowing he’s in it. But when he first appeared in Andor, my immediate thought was “who is this Chris Martin from Coldplay lookalike?” but quickly became impressed by how brilliant he was. I thought he was a British actor (doing an American accent) for some reason but in a show that had no shortage of standout episodes and an incredible cast and in my opinion is a gem of a project, he really left a big impression. I’ve always been a fan of character actors who have a naturalistic quality and there was a grounded, effortless quality to his performance. I will definitely pick up on The Bear because I’ve only seen the first few episodes and have been busy to catch up, despite its surge in popularity and acclaim. It’s really great to see such a great actor get the recognition he deserves. I felt that way about Ryan Gosling after seeing him in Half Nelson. I was clueless to the other work he had done and thought who is this guy and why is he so great. I became a fan and felt this personal sense of pride when he started getting more roles and more popularity. Now that he’s become an A lister, (as weird and ridiculous as this sounds) it feels like seeing one of your friends succeed and just being super happy for them.

[@dudebrian]

One of my favorite recent docus youve done, really appreciate this guy a lot more now!

[@TheBackFocus]

Had so much fun making it. I was cackling laughing at his stuff in Girls

[@Thebearmre7]

Big fan of his so glad he is getting his glow up. Every second counts

[@nuggz720]

I agree "Forks" is one of my favorite episodes of television ever. Its quiet and intense; its slow and fast paced like restaurants sometimes; and the mushroom peeling is very good advice

[@031Productions]

Richie's episode Forks is one of the best I've ever seen, it truly hit me in the chest. All the little bits afterwards which aren't mentioned as much made me smile though, like his simple "I wear suits now." and Neil Fak just accepting it, saying he looks good. His sincere apology to Sugar which everyone thought was going to be bullshit. Sugar gave him every opportunity to slip back to old Ritchie, but he stuck to what he was going to do and apologized anyway, despite her making it super awkward thinking it was going to be a bit. Him interviewing candidates with the turned napkin. Him yelling I love you through the freezer door. Just, so much of what he does after Forks made me so happy.

[@safernandez02]

Your style is very reminiscent of Lemmino's style. Informative with great tone and a good sense of humor. Great watch!! New sub outta me.

[@sunnyshealthcoaching]

I just found your channel and I really enjoyed this review! Looking forward to the others thank you!🎉

[@GoFidoGo]

Years later, I still think about his performance in Andor. The nuance and ambiguity he brought is pitch perfect for the story that was told. I was so happy to see him again when the Bear started.

[@LibraryCake]

Love that he had already worked with Oliver Platt and Jon Bernthal

[@alberttsang1521]

The way you are portraying him in his roles and the way his characters are written he almost comes off like a Matthew Lillard almost.

[@yutyuiiu]

I have watched two vids of yours this channel is great..Thanks

[@Shaktar]

Nice and surprising. I didnt remember him from any films and tv shows Ive seen with him. Except the one that made me watch The Bear, NOS4A2, I liked his character, I heard good things about the bear but I decided to give a try only after I learned he was in it.

[@kekz0r]

Great episode as always and oh my Satan I didn't know that about him. I'll push The Bear more now to my friends since his character is awesome.

[@ramblinman07]

I remember first saw Ebon in season one of The Punisher, but The Bear is where he broke out. He is an amazing presence.

[@lucasrhys0363]

I first saw him acting in the punisher, was upset when i saw he wasnt in the second season

[@andrewoodsspiderman4220]

You needed to talk about Joseph Quinn his performance in Quiet Place Day One was so wonderful and valuable ❤️ and also, Joe Keery, i been watching fargo he really amazing in the show

[@Eligoth66y]

Wow! Great video!

[@christopherb.5350]

Excellent video.

[@StonedSpagooter]

Going on to become the most respected front of house manager in the city is the best arch in the show

[@smokejc]

He was great in The Punisher.

[@scottymacdewder5229]

Micro had zero buisness being that compelling

[@jeffeidson2526]

Thank you.

[@thexsound6627]

Such a good character on the punisher and amazing on the bear.

[@psypsy751]

Definitely my favorite character on The Bear. He's just so human. His arc and just the whole show cures you of any sense of misanthropy.

[@harborwolf22]

Hearing that he's playing 'The Thing' is the first piece of news that's made me have some optimism about The Fantastic Four

[@tiffanypersaud3518]

Good for him, honestly❤.

[@Bigspoonzz]

First, great job! I got emotional at just your descriptions of Richie in the Bear, and for sure when you capped off what an incredible journey both the character and Ebon have been on. As an aside, Ebon has 2 lost on the shelves films. The Gods film, and also Porn N Chicken. PnC aired once on MTV - at least as the internet has determined - and never re-aired or went to release or disc. The only copies that seem to exist were those made by people who just happened to record it to VHS during its original airing... I'm sure it's not a topic Ebon talks about, but wow I'd love to hear his take -

[@TheBackFocus]

I tried finding Porn N Chicken, but I couldn’t find it! That’s why lol. Thanks for the kind words.

[@felirenebongolan566]

This makes me want to rewatch "Forks". The acting was incredible.

[@willienelsongonzalez4609]

Don’t forget folks he was also in The Last Ship where he plays a misguided evil scientist Neils, as well as the TV version of The Punisher where he’s an NSA IT specialist who helps The Punisher. We all know him from Damages and Girls but he’s also been in Interrogation, The Dropout, No Hard Feelings ….. Great actor whose work speaks for itself and long may his success continue to entertain all. I’m looking forward to seeing him play Ben Grimm in the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot due for release in 2025.

[@Eleonoor]

I've had a bit of a crush on this guy since the first time I saw him in Mona Lisa smile.

[@henrycrawford3107]

Underated channel

[@devak45167]

My favorite character on The Bear by a mile. His performance in season 2 was career defining.

[@harborwolf22]

The way he puts his hand through the window in Girls is unsettling.

[@iamnoone4918]

He deserved that emmy

[@joseluki]

That guy eat all the scenes he is in, he has a presence that is hypnotizing.

[@mitchelsmith7782]

he was great in the punisher

[@niklasra669]

He is such an amazing actor

[@Affenzunge]

First noticed and fell in love with him in The Punisher

[@spacegoat0133]

So frank and Micro might have possibly opened up a restaurant in Chicago as best friends

[@ThreadlyStringss]

I first saw him in NOS4A2 and only realized I saw him there while watching The Bear.

[@Epok97]

Yes suprise!!!! Feliz cumpleaños a ti!! 😂 seen it before and it still made me laugh.

[@AmericanHorse-sg9oc]

This dude is a Day Lewis level unit! He nailed Quincy Adams.

[@justgary2471]

Ebon is a beast.

[@bananaslammer1605]

ebon moss was really good in the punisher

[@mistermatix8241]

I remember him as Tim in Stealth

[@laurakojobeecham4872]

YES.

[@gabgabatz]

Walton Goggins next please!

[@cherylmaden5989]

I loved him in that HBO Evangelical show... righteous gems?

[@miriammohan130]

Fuck it I’m rewatching forks

[@Liolia22]

Wait, isn’t the actor playing Frank Castle in The Punisher…the same actor who played Mikey in The Bear? He and Ebon are reunited! 😄

[@csen96]

Woah! He’s like a chameleon with all these characters! Like real range!

[@cutekittens6]

THE WAY I REWOUND BECAUSE HES IN THE PUNISHER!?!??!?!??!

[@nik1987o]

but he got the Emmy for season 1. this year season 2 is on the Emmy ballot.

[@TheBackFocus]

Oh snap… that fell through the cracks of my brain when I made this. Welp, he should win again for S2!!

[@skatedurr]

I wear suits now.

[@grantlee4331]

My man, you gotta do a video on Glenn Fleshler some time. Not really a name that'd draw in views, but the guy's fantastic.

[@a.KniteOwl]

What's The Song at the end?

[@a89952]

I like him in the punisher

[@snowyalice]

I'm surprised at the amount of films I've seen him in. Also, Come Out and Play is a remake of a 70s horror film, Who Can Kill a Child?

[@MakzFishin]

I swear he reminded me of judge reinhold at times.

[@coyoboyo]

Wait. Did this video slip that Fantastic Four is incoming? Also, Ritchie is our cousin now.

[@oscart4983]

he was good in the Punisher

[@AdrianMendoza23]

Wow

[@niccage6375]

Ebon moss 👍 Elon musk 👎

[@a_r-rm2ym]

David Lieberman is my goat

[@TheLetsPlayHeros10]

i cant wait to see him as the thing COUSIN

[@savegraysoncats]

I feel like Richie is a hard character to play and make it real

[@4zn1nv4zn3]

I first saw him as a lead in a comedy central movie called porn and chicken about Harvard students starting a student club centered around porn

[@quinnlewis5286]

Reminds me of andy serkis

[@BlueJarth]

he was the shit in Punisher

[@noevazquez-west5796]

You’re telling me this wasn’t Dave Portnoy the whole time…damn I’m dumb

[@spacegoat0133]

He’s gonna be fantastic for Ben Grimm (pun intended)

[@ualreadykno2K]

so no one's gonna talk about makinov?

[@joygernautm6641]

He looks like a skinny Bert Kreischer

[@MrKinghuman]

seems like he was always a decent actor but he had a baby face, now his face is a little older and it shows more emotion.

[@mrninjaninjaman]

I feel like he could’ve played a great Scott Weiland

[@ktxed]

star wars lol

[@IanLai]

WOW, he resembles a young Keanu

[@joaocorreiamedia]

Why do they keep making Fantastic 4 films? Even the best one was mid at best. Just give it up already lol

[@StealingWinter]

Probably because there wasn't a good one and there is potential for one. Although like you I am skeptical. What one do you think was best so far the 1st early 2000s one?

[@joaocorreiamedia]

@@StealingWinter It was the best one. But it wasn't a great film. But at this point I'm beyond done with Superhero films.

[@user-kw7rt9zl4e]

Wow didn’t even realize he was in girls and I watched every episode