In the season finale, Carmy gives a moving and emotional monologue detailing the trauma from his past, including the death of his brother, Mikey. He also recounts his brother’s addiction while seemingly disclosing his own. Carmy details how, after being rejected from his family’s restaurant by Mikey, he dove deep into the world of culinary excellence to forge his own path — out of spite.
Carmy was driven to cook in “real restaurants” and explicitly relives the grueling hard work he endured in those kitchens. He reveals himself to the audience when he says that experience was “everything” and confesses that for the first time in his life, he felt fulfilled and confident. However, this addictive and damaging pursuit of perfection led to intense competition with his fellow chefs that replaced the feelings of worthlessness he felt from his brother.
Now that Mikey’s gone, he and Carmy can never reconcile their falling out. Will Carmy return to these distracting and destructive habits in Season 2? Under the stress of a new restaurant and financial responsibilities, it’s possible, but we sincerely hope not.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).