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Benny Shields inked The Bear actors after reviewing character scripts

Tattoo artist Benny Shields created designs for Jeremy Allen White and Will Poulter while filming the series The Bear in Los Angeles.

An empty auditorium with wooden seats facing a blank theater screen.
File photo An empty auditorium with wooden seats facing a blank theater screen. Photo: Adrien Olichon

Shields worked with actor friends

The tattooist received scripts from the production team before finalizing character details. He stated that he tried to accept every request unless there was a valid reason to decline. Jeremy Allen White described Shields as a longtime friend who had previously done permanent ink for him.

Designs defined the characters

White noted that the tattoos were integral to understanding Carmen Berzatto early in development. The artist asked about family history and what made the character feel safe during their conversations. Fifteen sketches ultimately made the cut for the show, including a Pyrex measuring glass on the left forearm.

Early career included Ryan Gosling

Shields created designs for Ryan Gosling in 2011 when self-drawn concepts did not work. The actor had asked Shields to help because his brother was a member of Gosling's band. This collaboration marked the tattooist's first screen credit.

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