AppleTV+ has officially announced the much-anticipated return of Jason Sudeikis as everyone’s favorite football coach with the confirmation of Ted Lasso for its fourth season. This announcement brings excitement to fans as the series has become synonymous with positivity during trying times.
The news was broken during the March 14 episode of the New Heights podcast, co-hosted by brothers Travis and Jason Kelce. During this episode, Sudeikis, who plays the titular coach of AFC Richmond, shared significant details about what fans can expect from the upcoming season. "That's the official word," he clarified, confirming, "Ted's coaching a women's team, so there, that's it." This shift signals exciting changes for both the character and the storyline.
Fans are already familiar with the conclusion of season three, which saw the beloved coach return to America to be with his son, Henry, after spending time coaching the fictional Premier League side. The storyline hinted at new beginnings, especially with Keeley Jones (Juno Temple) pitching the idea for AFC Richmond's women’s team to Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham).
Despite earlier fears of the show concluding after season three, Sudeikis and the creative team have been steadily writing season four since the series last aired, which wrapped up in June 2023. The series has won numerous accolades, including 13 Primetime Emmys, and has garnered immense fan loyalty.
Sudeikis expressed his enthusiasm for the writing process on the podcast, saying it is both “exciting” and “daunting.” He noted, "We told the story we wanted to tell, but there's more there and it is a neat group of people to work with." His sentiments reflect the emotional connection and respect he has for the show's fanbase, and his desire to develop the characters they love.
"The universe kept just saying things," Sudeikis reminisced, referring to how feedback and encouragement from fans and industry professionals continued to inspire the creative team amid the 2023 actors' and writers' strike. Such connections have undoubtedly contributed to the decision to continue the series.
The show's co-creator, Bill Lawrence, also previously hinted at the potential for season four, siding with Sudeikis and allowing him the freedom to decide. "Everyone would say the same thing, which is: whatever Jason feels like doing and whatever his decision is, we're all down with it," he stated. This collaborative spirit among the creative team remains ever-present as they gear up for this next installment.
Fans have already speculated heavily about the new season, particularly with Sudeikis's multifaceted portrayal of Coach Ted Lasso—who blends earnestness with humor. The transition for Ted to coach a women's team offers fresh storylines and character dynamics, showcasing empowerment and female leadership.
Notably, the core cast is expected to return, with names linked to the new season including Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, and Jeremy Swift. Goldstein is also set to contribute as both writer and executive producer, indicating continuity and quality control within the creative team.
The company head of programming for Apple TV+, Matt Cherniss, remarked on the series' impact, stating, "Ted Lasso has been nothing short of a juggernaut, inspiring a passionate fanbase all over the world, and delivering endless joy and laughter, all whilst spreading kindness, compassion, and unwavering belief." Such acknowledgments reinforce Ted Lasso's cultural significance and the show's mission to uplift its audience.
Despite the lack of specific details about the release date for the new season, anticipation is high. The energy surrounding the announcement has reignited discussions and excitement among fans, who are eager to see what direction the writers will take.
"Learning to leap before they look" is the thematic mantra Sudeikis encapsulated about the fourth season's approach. “Wherever they land, it’s exactly where they’re meant to be,” he said, echoing the positive and resilient ethos of the show. This encapsulation may resonate well with viewers, especially during times of uncertainty.
Interestingly, Sudeikis' character also returned to social media on the same day as the announcement with his first post since October 2023, humorously mentioning he’d "finally found the dang password" and asking, "What'd I miss?" This return to social media surely spurred excitement and engagement among fans.
Although no specific plot details have been revealed, the series' success and evolution remain firmly anchored to the heartwarming and humorous ambiances established throughout its previous seasons. The optimistic outlook of Ted Lasso endeared audiences to the show, prompting not just laughter, but reflection on the human experience.
With all signs pointing toward the new season, AppleTV+ is poised to deliver another round of impactful storytelling with Ted Lasso. Having aired its last episode last summer, the suspense around new plotlines is palpable, and viewers are ready for more heartwarming laughs infused with the show's signature charm.
Indeed, the return of Ted Lasso is set to reaffirm viewers’ faith not just in the series, but also the power of kindness and community through sport. Apple has already teased the series will deliver new adventures and lessons with the beloved characters, and fans can expect to be delighted once again under Sudeikis's comedic helm. The bright future of AFC Richmond awaits.