Apple’s Ted Lasso may be the best show to watch during this crazy time. A character with endless positivity and optimism may help us remember how to enjoy the little things in life. This half-hour comedy is the story of an American football coach becoming the coach of a British football (soccer) club. The basis of the show comes from a 2013 commercial starring Jason Sudeikis created for NBC Sports.
A Big Win
Ted Lasso’s lack of knowledge of the British football game should disqualify him from the position, but his best coaching skills don’t just apply to the game. Jason Sudeikis’ performance is spot-on as this character could be played far too silly. Instead, Sudeikis uses a midwest attitude and a can-do spirit to build a support system that footballers and viewers can get behind.
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A Balance Exercise
The real success of this series is balance. The characters are taken seriously and the comedy is organic and very well-written. As ridiculous as the situation sounds on paper, the show never feels contrived. The drama of the story comes from people asking Ted to be someone he is not. Ted’s endless enthusiasm pushed away his wife and disconnects him from people who are less than cheery. Despite this, he is showing others why they don’t need to be anyone, but themselves.
Because of this dynamic, Ted meets characters that find his tactics tacky and pointless. Yet, the story builds to the final episode where you can see how Ted has influenced everyone around him for the better. This isn’t a show about a dystopian future or a man with a dark secret like so many others. Happily, this is a show that makes you feel hopeful. Nice people being nice to everyone can create real, positive change. What a beautiful thought right now.
Apple's Ted Lasso is the nicest show on TV that proves that a good coach, in sport and life, can carry anyone to a much-needed victory. Jason Sudeikis is perfect as the title character. This show is a must-watch.
- Included with Apple TV+