Interview: Liza Colón-Zayas on Her Emmy Nod, Tina’s Evolution in ‘The Bear,’ and Stepping Out of Her Comfort Zone

Liza Colón-Zayas has captivated audiences with her portrayal of Tina, the resilient and complex kitchen veteran in FX’s critically lauded series The Bear. This gritty, emotionally charged show offers a raw glimpse into the frenetic world of a Chicago restaurant, but it’s the deep, human connections between the characters that truly resonate. Liza’s portrayal of Tina has brought a unique depth to the series, turning what could have been a supporting role into the heart and soul of the kitchen crew. Her outstanding performance has now earned her a well-deserved first Emmy nomination, marking a significant milestone in her already impressive career.

The Bear made history this year by securing a record-breaking number of nominations for a comedy series in a single year. The accolades span multiple categories, including acting nods for Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Liza Colón-Zayas, along with guest appearances from industry heavyweights like Olivia Colman, Jon Bernthal, and Jamie Lee Curtis. These nominations underscore the show’s status as a cultural phenomenon and cement its place as one of today’s most defining series in television.

In our conversation, the Emmy-nominated actress takes us through the whirlwind of emotions she felt upon learning of her Emmy nod—a moment she describes as almost too good to be true. She delves into Tina’s evolution from a tough, guarded worker to a character who reveals unexpected layers of vulnerability, particularly in the unforgettable episode “Pop,” where Tina takes center stage with a poignant rendition of Freddie Fender’s classic song. Liza shares how stepping into Tina’s shoes, especially in that scene, pushed her outside her comfort zone, yet the overwhelming love from fans and critics alike reaffirmed her decision to take that leap.

Beyond the screen, Colón-Zayas opens up about the supportive, family-like atmosphere on the set of The Bear, where creativity flourishes, and risks are encouraged. She hints at even more exciting developments for Tina in the seasons to come, while reflecting on the profound impact her character’s journey has had on viewers. With her Emmy nomination, Colón-Zayas’s star is undoubtedly on the rise, and her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, vulnerability, and the magic that happens when an actor fully inhabits their role.

Landon Johnson: Hi Liza. Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me. I know you’re super busy, and we truly appreciate it.

Liza Colón-Zayas: Thank you.

LJ: Congratulations on your first Emmy nomination!

LCZ: Oh my God.

LJ: What was your initial reaction when you heard the news about the nomination?

LCZ: I couldn’t process it at first. I was like, “Yeah, uh-huh.” And then it took two weeks before it landed, and then I got all weepy. First, I got giggly because it just seemed too good to be true. And then I got weepy.

LJ: I completely understand that. And the competition this year, it’s such an incredible league of extraordinary talent. What does that mean to you to be a part of these prestigious nominees?

LCZ: The feeling of validation is to the moon. I just feel like all the years of struggle and rejection to then get rewarded by being in that category with those women is surreal. It’s almost too good to be true. My respect and admiration is immeasurable.

LJ: And in season two, we really get to see Tina evolve as a character. And then in Season 2 episode five, we get to see you showcase your singing talents. And that’s so exciting. Not only do you bring Freddie Fender back to the mainstream, remind everyone about that amazing song, that amazing, extraordinary Latino talent. What did that mean to you to be able to showcase those talents?

LCZ: Well, Landon, thank you so much. I don’t sing in public. I don’t do musical theater. I’m actually terrified of singing in public. But thankfully, that song by Freddie Fender was on the radio all the time when I was a kid. So, it was just in my bones. And it was another challenge to get outside of my comfort zone, which is like what Tina is also going through. I felt it. And at first, I was so scared that I don’t have the chops and that I was going to get criticized. And yet there has been so much love for that moment. Oh, I never would’ve imagined.

LJ: It really is a spectacular song, and you sang it so beautifully. You talk a little bit about Tina’s journey, and that song is a tipping point for the character. Can you talk a little bit about the personal and professional evolution from season one to season two?

LCZ: We meet her, and she’s super guarded and rough to deal with if you’re not part of the Little Rascals of the original beef. By season two, we get to see how fiercely loyal and trusting she can be if her respect is earned. And so that’s where I think we are. I’ll ride at dawn with you, but I think she also rightfully needed to be like, “Prove it. Earn my respect.” I’ve gone through so much loss, people who your age rejected me over and over again when I was struggling and looking for a job. So, I’m not just going to roll over for more change on top of dealing with such profound loss.

LJ: I think that’s absolutely what’s portrayed on screen. And that musical number is a very intimate and vulnerable moment for Tina. What did the team do to make you feel safe and supported through that? As you know, you’re stepping outside of your comfort zone. What did they do on set to make you feel supported in that?

LCZ: They’ve done what they always do every day. It’s a healthy, respectful, loving set. The actors, the crew, our showrunner directors, it literally is that safe. And I’ve been trained to allow, I can get dragged as an actor and do it eight times a week. That’s what I’ve been trained to do. Tina’s journey mirrors my journey. How did I feel protected? I just always feel protected by these guys. It almost feels like I could purge whatever stress and everything I was able to, as an actor. I feel like I can release it in a healthier way by playing these roles that are so emotionally demanding.

LJ: The cast and crew do seem like a very strong family, and that really does, I think, help come across in the show and make it more valuable to people, more appealing. Can you talk a little bit about some of the behind-the-scenes moments that maybe we don’t see?

LCZ: Oh wow. That’s a tough question. I’ll just say when I’m behind the scenes and watching these actors work, I’m learning, I’m moved. It’s a masterclass. And I laugh a lot. Anything that the Fak Brothers do, I’m hysterical laughing. Evan getting stabbed in the behind. It’s hard to pinpoint. And I also, I don’t know, I just feel I want to protect what goes on backstage. Behind the scenes.

LJ: As far as looking back on your journey with The Bear and your career as a whole, how does the Emmy nomination, looking at your career going forward, even at this season going forward, are we going to be able to see any more talents from Tina? Are we going to see dancing? Are we going to see more singing?

LCZ: You’re going to see me kickboxing.

LJ: Oh wow.

LCZ: The little-known other side of Tina. No, I just don’t want to give anything away.

LJ: Tina is going to the Olympics.

LCZ: There’s more. There will be more.

LJ: 2028, you’re going to be in the Olympics.

LCZ: Not break dancing though, that I know.

LJ: Yeah, I know. Well, apparently anyone can do it.

LCZ: Apparently (Laughs)

LJ: You’ve got this. We think you can do it.

LCZ: Yes. Yes.

LJ: How has Tina’s role in The Bear influenced your approach to future roles?

LCZ: I would say that I knew so little about her starting out. I’ve learned that when you have good writers, you can just trust them. Tina was a mystery to me. Why does she operate the way she does? But I was able to say, “Listen, I’m a little concerned.” And they were just like, “Hey, no, we got trust.” And that was all I needed. And they knew. So, they were much smarter than me. They knew what they were doing.

LJ: What do you hope audiences ultimately will take away from Tina and her emotional journey, her evolution, her arc through season two, season three, and throughout? What’s the overall takeaway that you’re hoping for?

LCZ: I feel that if they are moved and identify with Tina’s struggle, then I’ve done my job. If they can find empathy, then I’ve done my job. I think ultimately that’s what it’s about. Tina is finally shown empathy by Mikey, then Ayo and Carmen. And so, hey, can we do that for other people? Do that for ourselves and hopefully dream again, maybe re-examine whatever passion you wish you’d pursued, and find the courage to take a stab at it.

LJ: That’s wonderful. I know you’re super busy. Any Future projects that you want to talk about? What can we look forward to in the future?

LCZ: I’m not going anywhere, and I can’t really talk about it right now.

LJ: Well, we know you’re busy, and we know people saw that episode, and you’re probably going to have a lot more offers that are going to take you outside your comfort zone and to many different places now. We’re excited to see you thrive on Emmy night and through the season. It’s been a long time coming, and we’re very glad that these accolades have made their way.

LCZ: Thank you so much. I really appreciate that, Landon.

LJ: Absolutely. And thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me.

LCZ: You’re so welcome.

LJ: And we look forward to seeing you on Emmy night. Have a wonderful rest of your day.

LCZ: Thank you. You too, baby. Bye-bye.

Liza Colón-Zayas is Emmy-nominated in the category Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for The Bear where she has submitted the episode “Pop.”