
image credit by www.brit.co
The beloved American football coach is officially back on British screens. Ted Lasso season four has begun production this month, sending fans across the UK into raptures. Apple TV+ confirmed filming commenced in Kansas City on 21st July, with London shoots scheduled next.
The Emotional Resurrection of Ted Lasso
Hannah Waddingham perfectly captured fans’ feelings about Ted Lasso’s unexpected return. The Emmy-winning actress described the show as “the most beautiful, beloved dog that was buried”. She continued: “Now we’ve exhumed it, and I am here for it.”
Apple initially positioned season three as the series finale in May 2023. Jason Sudeikis suggested the story had reached its natural conclusion. However, overwhelming fan demand and creative possibilities changed everything.
The streaming giant announced the renewal in March 2025. Sudeikis immediately confirmed his return as star and executive producer. Production began just four months later, marking unprecedented speed for television development.
Major Cast Departures Rock AFC Richmond
Ted Lasso faces significant changes as several beloved characters won’t return regularly. Phil Dunster, who portrayed Jamie Tartt, has scheduling conflicts with an HBO comedy series. His absence creates a massive gap in the Richmond squad.
Nick Mohammed’s Nate Shelley also appears unlikely to return as a series regular. Other departing characters include Sarah Niles’ Dr Sharon Fieldstone and Anthony Head’s Rupert Mannion. These exits fundamentally alter the show’s dynamic.
Apple confirmed returning cast members during the production announcement. Jason Sudeikis leads the group alongside Hannah Waddingham, Juno Temple, Brett Goldstein, Jeremy Swift, and Brendan Hunt. Their chemistry remains the show’s emotional core.
Ted Tackles Women’s Football Revolution
Season four introduces Ted Lasso to women’s football coaching. The official synopsis reveals Ted “returns to Richmond, taking on his biggest challenge yet”. He’ll coach a second-division women’s team, marking a significant narrative shift.
This storyline emerged naturally from season three’s finale. Keeley Jones suggested AFC Richmond launch a women’s team to Rebecca Welton. The idea perfectly positions Ted Lasso for fresh storytelling opportunities.
Women’s football has exploded in popularity across the UK recently. The Lionesses’ European Championship victory and World Cup success created unprecedented interest. Ted Lasso’s timing appears perfect for capitalising on this momentum.
New Faces Join the Richmond Family
Seven new cast members bring fresh energy to Ted Lasso season four. Tanya Reynolds from Sex Education headlines the newcomers alongside Jude Mack from Such Brave Girls. Faye Marsay, Rex Hayes, Aisling Sharkey, and Abbie Hern complete the additions.
Grant Feely assumes the role of Henry Lasso, Ted’s son, replacing previous actor Gus Turner. This recasting suggests Henry plays a more significant role in upcoming storylines. The character’s expanded presence could explore Ted’s parenting journey.
Apple TV+ keeps specific character details under wraps for now. However, these casting choices suggest Ted Lasso prioritises both established talent and promising newcomers. The blend should maintain the show’s authentic British flavour.
Behind-the-Scenes Creative Evolution
Jack Burditt joins Ted Lasso as executive producer under his Apple TV+ overall deal. The Modern Family and 30 Rock veteran brings extensive comedy experience. His involvement suggests the show maintains its award-winning writing quality.
Brett Goldstein continues dual roles as Roy Kent and executive producer-writer. His creative input proved crucial during the first three seasons. Leanne Bowen, Sara Walker, and Phoebe Walsh return as writers and producers.
Bill Lawrence remains executive producer through his Doozer Productions company. Warner Bros Television and Universal Television continue their production partnership. This stability ensures Ted Lasso maintains its distinctive voice.
Filming Locations Bridge Two Continents
Ted Lasso season four splits filming between Kansas City and London. The Missouri location holds special significance as Sudeikis’s hometown. Opening scenes likely establish Ted’s American roots before returning to Richmond.
The Kansas City sequences probably show Rebecca, Keeley, and Higgins visiting Ted stateside. First-look images reveal the characters sharing a meal at an American diner. This setting suggests they’re convincing Ted to return to coaching.
London filming will capture Ted Lasso’s signature British atmosphere. The show’s authentic portrayal of English football culture became legendary. Maintaining this authenticity remains crucial for UK audiences who embraced the series.
Emmy Legacy and Cultural Impact
Ted Lasso dominated awards ceremonies during its original run. The series earned 61 Emmy nominations and won 13 awards across three seasons. Sudeikis claimed consecutive Outstanding Lead Actor wins in 2021 and 2022.
British audiences particularly connected with the show’s respectful American perspective on English football. Ted Lasso avoided typical stereotypes while celebrating genuine football passion. This approach earned widespread UK critical acclaim.
The series influenced real football culture significantly. Several Premier League clubs adopted Ted’s optimistic coaching philosophy. Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola publicly praised the show’s positive messaging about sports leadership.
Release Timeline and Future Expectations
Apple TV+ hasn’t announced an official Ted Lasso season four premiere date. Industry experts predict early-to-mid 2026 based on current production schedules. The gap allows for extensive post-production and promotional planning.
Season four likely represents Ted Lasso’s final chapter. Sudeikis previously indicated his desire to conclude the story appropriately. However, spinoff possibilities remain open, particularly focusing on women’s football storylines.
UK streaming figures consistently ranked Ted Lasso among Apple TV+’s most-watched content. Season four should generate similar interest, especially given the two-year anticipation period.
The return of Ted Lasso offers British audiences comfort during uncertain times. Ted’s relentless optimism and “believe” philosophy resonates deeply across cultural boundaries. Season four promises to continue this uplifting tradition while exploring fresh narrative territory.
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