CHICAGO — A unique lookalike competition was held on Saturday in a Chicago park, drawing over 50 participants eager to replicate the likeness of Jeremy Allen White, the lead actor of the popular local series “The Bear.”
The event not only offered the winner the title of White’s unofficial body double but also a cash prize of $50 and a pack of cigarettes, a nod to his character, Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto. Carmy, a talented and celebrated chef, returns to Chicago to manage his family’s modest sandwich shop after a stint in the upscale dining scene.
In the series, Carmy sometimes earns the nickname “Bear,” as he harbors aspirations of opening a fine dining establishment named after this moniker.
As the crowd cheered enthusiastically, the title was awarded to 37-year-old mental health therapist Ben Shabad, as reported by the Chicago Sun-Times.
“This has been the highlight of my week,” exclaimed Shabad, who celebrated the victory amid the crowd with a crown on his head and the pack of cigarettes held triumphantly in his hand.
While the majority of the contestants were white men, the event also saw participation from women and individuals of various ethnic backgrounds, including a toddler who perfectly matched White’s appearance.
The organizers were pleasantly surprised by the impressive turnout, which also featured devoted fans such as Alexis Kline, who expressed her admiration, stating, “He’s like a Roman god to me.”
