AFC Richmond is set to make a triumphant return to the pitch with their beloved coach, as Apple TV+ has officially ordered a fourth season of the critically acclaimed comedy series Ted Lasso. This announcement comes after over a year of speculation and excitement among fans, especially following the conclusion of season three in May 2023.
At the heart of this new season's development is co-creator and star Jason Sudeikis, who has finalized a deal to reprise his iconic role as Ted Lasso, the optimistic manager of the fictional AFC Richmond soccer club based in London. Matt Cherniss, head of programming for Apple TV+, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Ted Lasso has been nothing short of a juggernaut, inspiring a passionate fanbase all over the world while spreading kindness, compassion, and unwavering belief.”
Speculation about a potential fourth season had been rampant since the end of the previous season. The creative team behind Ted Lasso had indicated that the possibility of continuing hinged on Sudeikis's commitment. Co-creator and executive producer Bill Lawrence remarked during the Writers Guild of America Awards that “Our fearless leader Jason Sudeikis will talk about that when he’s ready.”
Exciting developments for season four have begun to emerge. On the New Heights podcast, Sudeikis revealed that Ted Lasso will be coaching a women’s team, a storyline hinted at in the season three finale. This idea was introduced when Keeley Jones (played by Juno Temple) suggested to club owner Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham) the formation of a women’s team.
Although Apple TV+ has not confirmed the full cast for the upcoming season, sources indicate that several familiar faces are in negotiations to return. This includes Juno Temple, who is expected to reprise her role as Keeley, and Brendan Hunt, who is close to signing on to play Coach Beard once again. Additionally, Jack Burditt will join as an executive producer, further enhancing the creative team behind this beloved series.
Sudeikis hinted at the overarching theme for the new season, stating, “In season four, the folks at AFC Richmond learn to LEAP BEFORE THEY LOOK, discovering that wherever they land, it’s exactly where they’re meant to be.” This reflects the show's continual exploration of personal growth and resilience.
Ted Lasso season three has achieved remarkable success, becoming Apple TV+’s most-watched show to date and finishing as the No. 1 original streaming series in the United States for 2023, according to Nielsen ratings. The season featured a talented cast, including Phil Dunster, Nick Mohammed, and Toheeb Jimoh, among others.
As the creative team begins writing for season four, Sudeikis acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “It’s daunting, because we told the story we wanted to tell, but there’s more there.” The anticipation for another season of Ted Lasso reflects a global desire for the joy and positivity the show brings.
Channing Dungey, chairman and CEO of Warner Bros. TV, emphasized the significance of the show's return, stating, “If ever there was a show the world needed more of right now, it would be Ted Lasso.” The entire team, along with the fans, eagerly looks forward to the new season, which promises to deliver more heartwarming moments and laughter.
As production is expected to begin in the summer, fans can anticipate more updates and exciting news about Ted Lasso season four in the coming months. With a dynamic cast and a passionate creative team, the journey of AFC Richmond continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.