Fat Bear Week is back. Meet this year's contenders

Fat Bear Week is returning for its 12th edition this week. This beloved annual online showdown transforms Alaska's bulkiest brown bears into internet celebrities. The event celebrates the remarkable pre-hibernation glow-ups of the contenders as they prepare for winter. This competition highlights the physical transformations of the bears, allowing the public to vote for the bulkiest animal. The event continues its tradition of showcasing the impressive size and health of these brown bears before hibernation.