‘Emmys Watch 2025’ showcases critical responses to the series nominated for Outstanding Drama, Outstanding Comedy, and Outstanding Limited Series at that 77th Primetime Emmy Awards. Contributions to this theme explore critical understandings of some series nominated in these categories. This contribution by Chris Comerford compares the mix of comedy and drama in The Bear and Shrinking. Though it may have started as one, The Bear no longer feels like a comedy, nor even a “dramedy”. Despite its nomination once again for Outstanding Comedy Series at this year’s Emmy Awards, this article argues that The Bear has slipped further from its comedic roots in favour of prioritising drama and introspection. By contrast, the article examines fellow nominee Shrinking’s second season and its successful intertwining of comedy and drama even as its tone and subject matter get increasingly heavier.