Abby Elliott, who portrays Natalie “Sugar” Berzatto on the FX series ‘The Bear,’ has shared details about a hidden element from the show’s recently released fifth season: a lower back tattoo belonging to her character that did not make the final cut. The tattoo, a dolphin with decorative elements, was planned for a scene depicting an intimate moment between Sugar and her husband, Pete (Chris Witaske).
The scene in question occurs during a chaotic restaurant service. Sugar steps outside to find Pete on trash duty, and amidst the external quiet and rain, they share a rare peaceful and intimate encounter. While they are shown sharing a kiss and undressing each other, a shot intended to reveal Sugar’s tattoo was ultimately omitted from the final edit.
Elliott explained to Decider that the dolphin tattoo has roots in the show’s first season. "The [tattoo] goes back to Season 1, talking to costumes," Elliott said. "I’m like, ‘Sugar’s grown up in Chicago, so maybe really fantasized about the ocean her whole life. And maybe she’s kind of obsessed with dolphins. Season 1 you’ll notice I’m wearing a dolphin necklace. So we called it back." This connection to a dolphin necklace seen in the pilot episode serves as an Easter egg for dedicated viewers.
Despite the tattoo not appearing on screen, Elliott felt the intimate scene itself was significant for the characters. "I was so excited to just have this fun, joyful, sweet romantic moment where there’s no tension. Sugar’s not stressed over a bill. You have all the shit and chaos going on inside, and then they’re under the tarp and it’s peaceful for one shining moment," she reflected. Elliott also expressed her comfort and enjoyment working with co-star Chris Witaske, stating, "I had so much fun doing that scene with Chris, because I feel really comfortable with him. He’s my buddy after five years. We have so much fun together, and I couldn’t have asked for a better scene partner."