A Unique Competition at Humboldt Park

This past Saturday, the sledding hill at Humboldt Park transformed into a vibrant stage for over 50 Jeremy Allen White lookalikes competing for a unique prize pack: $50 and a box of Marlboro Red cigarettes. The event attracted hundreds of enthusiastic spectators who cheered as each contestant showcased their best imitation of the star, famously known for his role as Chef Carmy Berzatto on the critically acclaimed Chicago-based series "The Bear."

Impressive Imitations and Unique Participants

Participants came dressed to impress, donning aprons, flaunting curly hair, and embracing the character's smoking habit that has become synonymous with his on-screen persona. Interestingly, the array of lookalikes didn’t just mirror the physical appearance of White; the event also included a delightful toddler lookalike, adding to the quirky charm of the day.

Crowning the Winner

The contest crowned 37-year-old mental health therapist Ben Shabad from Glenview as the winner, determined by the raucous applause of the crowd. Shabad beamed with joy as he was hoisted high above the cheering audience, exclaiming, "I’m so happy! This is the coolest thing I’ve done all week."

Inspired Organizers

The contest was organized by Albany Park roommates Kelsey Cassaro and Taylor Vaske, both of whom were inspired to host this playful homage to celebrity lookalikes after observing similar events in other cities. They came up with the idea as a lighthearted joke, crafting a flyer that quickly gained traction on social media and in the Logan Square neighborhood. "People were saying, 'Why doesn’t Chicago have one?' I thought it was the perfect opportunity to celebrate Jeremy Allen White," said Cassaro, 29, highlighting the Chicagoan's down-to-earth appeal and the familiarity many locals have with his look.

Celebrating Local Culture

Echoing a celebration of local culture, many contestants were fans of both "The Bear" and White’s previous hit show, "Shameless." Among the competitors was Michael Dudka, a Glen Ellyn resident and actual chef, who humorously noted that he was recognized for resembling White even before he knew who the actor was. Encouraged to participate by his father, Dudka joined the contest for a fun father-son outing in Humboldt Park, a neighborhood rich with memories for his dad.

Youthful Energy at the Contest

Students from Columbia College Chicago also added a youthful energy to the competition. Claire Filipiak, 20, eager to enjoy the experience, shared her admiration for "The Bear," noting its engaging cinematography and relatable storyline. Along with her friend Skylar Youngberg, they sported homemade aprons and planned to spend any winnings on their favorite hot pot or ramen restaurants, a fitting tribute to their shared love for food.

Community and Companionship

The lookalike contest also encouraged friendships, with David Moulin, 26, getting advice from his friend Juan Ortiz on perfecting his portrayal of White. While they worked on capturing the right look, the friendly banter showcased the joy of community engagement through a shared love of television.

Admiration for the Star

Amidst the excitement, attendees like Josephine Krieger and Alexis Kline reveled in the chance to celebrate not only the actor's looks but also his connection to places they recognize and cherish. Kline expressed admiration for White, affectionately referring to him as “like a Roman god” for his charm and talent.

More Than Just a Lookalike

In a delightful twist, for Ben Shabad, the win was about more than just his appearance. "I'm just impressed by his acting ability," he noted, acknowledging the skill that makes Jeremy Allen White a standout performer. "It’s a huge compliment that people think I look like him."

A Spirited Celebration

As the sun set on this joyful, spirited event, Chicagoans proved once again that they know how to celebrate their local stars, whether through admiration or through playful competition. Here’s hoping for another round of lookalikes in the near future!