Ramy Youssef, the cocreator and star of the hit series Ramy, describes guest-directing in television as akin to being a surrogate parent. He shares that typically, when an external director works on a single episode, they must adapt to the established style and tone of the show, often without the freedom to inject their unique creative vision. “The parents say, ‘Do this, eat that, but once you give birth, return the baby immediately,’” Youssef explains, emphasizing the limitations this brings.
However, his experience directing the season two episode “Honeydew” of The Bear was markedly different. This episode focuses on Lionel Boyce’s character Marcus as he travels to Copenhagen to seek inspiration for the dessert menu of his Chicago restaurant. Moving away from the show’s usual high-energy feel, this installment embraces a more reflective, subdued pace that aligns with Marcus’s character, allowing Youssef to create something distinctively special.
Youssef reflected on how the food scene in Copenhagen left a profound impact on him. “I learned so much about how people discover their voice,” he conveyed. He described Marcus as a character exploring life beyond the responsibilities of caring for his mother. Youssef noted the tranquility of Copenhagen, suggesting it provided the perfect backdrop for Marcus’s journey.
In contrast to his usual hectic schedule of co-creating, writing, directing, and starring in Ramy, Youssef enjoyed a quieter atmosphere while working on The Bear. Now nominated for a best-director Emmy for his directing efforts in this show, he shared some photographs from his two-week stay in Copenhagen, a period that significantly influenced him.
In a conversation with Vanity Fair, Youssef discussed how the mood and colors of Copenhagen played a crucial role in shaping Marcus’s story. He emphasized how the vibrant surroundings inspired the aesthetic of the dishes in the episode. “Being in an open place fosters creativity,” he stated, highlighting how nature and culinary experiences informed his direction.
The selection of the houseboat that Marcus stays in was also noteworthy. Youssef credited a conversation with line producer Tyson Bidner for the idea. They had previously filmed on a houseboat in Cairo and humorously acknowledged their recurring theme as they explored unique living spaces in Copenhagen. He explained that the houseboat offered privacy, intimacy, and a feeling of quiet solitude, blurring the lines between loneliness and peace.
Ultimately, Youssef believes that Marcus returns from his journey enriched with a new aspect of himself, showcasing the transformative experience he undergoes throughout the episode.