Jason Sudeikis, star and co-creator of the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso, has opened up about the challenging conversations he had with actors from the show's original cast. The upcoming fourth season, which premieres on August 5, will introduce a significant creative change, centring on an all-female football team, meaning many of the familiar faces from the fictional AFC Richmond men's squad will not be returning.
Sudeikis, who plays the titular American football coach, reportedly made individual phone calls to the affected actors to deliver the news personally. He told The Hollywood Reporter that these conversations were "very difficult" but essential, explaining, "Because I didn't want them to hear it on the internet. And because I love those guys and we all went through something together." This move reflects the close bond formed among the cast during the show's initial three seasons, which saw Ted Lasso coach a British men's team after moving to the UK.
Despite the departure of many supporting actors, key figures such as Sudeikis himself, Hannah Waddingham (who won a BAFTA TV Award for her role), Jeremy Swift, Juno Temple, and Brett Goldstein (a multiple Emmy and Critics' Choice Award winner) are all confirmed to return for the highly anticipated fourth instalment. However, some fan favourites, including Toheeb Jimoh (Sam), Cristo Fernández (Dani), Kola Bokinni (Isaac), and Billy Harris (Colin), are not yet confirmed to return, though guest appearances have not been ruled out. Phil Dunster, who portrayed the popular character Jamie Tartt, will also be absent due to prior scheduling commitments with another comedy series, Rooster.
The decision to continue the series came after the third season, which concluded in 2023, was widely believed to be the show's finale, with Sudeikis's character seemingly returning to the US. However, Sudeikis and his co-creators began exploring ideas for a continuation, eventually settling on the new direction. The official logline for season four states: "Ted returns to Richmond, taking on his biggest challenge yet: coaching a second division women's football team. Throughout the course of the season, Ted and the team learn to leap before they look, taking chances they never thought they would." This shift promises a fresh narrative while retaining the show's signature blend of humour and heart.
Adding another minor change, the role of Henry, Ted Lasso's son, has been recast, with Grant Feely taking over from the previous child actor. The show has garnered significant critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase in the UK, resonating with audiences for its optimistic tone and exploration of themes like mental health and community, all set against the backdrop of British football culture. Its return has been eagerly awaited by many.