PROPS

A lot of people ask me, as a Prop Buyer/Manager, what it was that I actually DID. Well, it is still extremely hard to describe but here is one of my favorite prop stories from Season 2 of The Bear.

Believe it or not, it is not safe to throw real forks at actors so we set out to have 3 “dummy” forks custom made to match the real silverware that was on the Berzatto table. After several meetings and trials of foam, rubber, plastic, metal (you name it!) we landed on a material that was just right. Safe, but heavy enough to fly across the room like a real fork.

All of this for just one prop in one episode of television. Multiply that by 100+ items in a production and you’ve got a small idea of what a prop buyer/manager job entails.

Which of the 4 forks is the real one?

meijer on-set

On Set

2023

2024

Three women enjoy a outdoor meal with vegetables, pineapple, and grilled corn on a table, with a large blue Meijer store shopping bag among the food. Overlaid text reads, 'Bring More Good to Life.'

On Screen

SET DRESSING

A bohemian-style living room decorated with draped fabric on the ceiling, a large hanging geometric lamp, and a tapestry of astrologic symbols on the wall. The space includes a variety of cushions, plants, and eclectic furniture with colorful textiles and string lights.

On Set

A woman with dark curly hair sitting on a sofa in a warmly decorated room, holding a pen and looking thoughtfully upward.

On Screen

Deli Boys - Season 1

CARPENTER

Interior of a building under construction with wooden walls and arched openings, scaffolding, ladders, and construction tools.

On Set

Interior of a historic courtroom or municipal building with large arched windows, wooden paneling, and overhanging lights. There are rows of wooden benches and a desk with scattered papers and office supplies.

On Screen

Chicago Justice - Season 1