Ted Lasso
 

Can’t find anything here written about this show although I was certain someone had commented on the show.

Not going to continue with this show after the first 2 episodes since it’s not really my cuppa tea.

But, I do think it’s rather good. Unusual original story for sure. Jason Sudeikis is putting 1000% of his being into this role. (The American guy playing his second-in-common is brilliant in his taciturnity.)

The female British owner of the club is also excellent. New to me, but, apparently, well known in the UK.

Apparently, Americans have embraced this show much more than Brits have.

If I had absolutely nothing else to watch, I would probably embrace this show. There’s loads of streaming I need to catch up on + my new DVDs so am gonna pass.

Just watched the pilot for this dark sports comedy series from Apple Original and Warner Brothers which I knew nothing about until earlier this year when I saw Jason Sudeikis win a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Comedy Series, which piqued my interest and I wish I had gotten around to it a little sooner, because this smart and sophisticated series could turn out to be something very special. Fans of the movie Major League will recognize the basic premise here, though the creators have definitely put their own spin on things. Sudeikis plays a second rate American football coach who gets hired to coach a soccer team in London, where soccer is referred to as football, which we initially think is going to be the hook for this show. The real hook is that the team's owner, Rebecca Welton, won the team in her divorce settlement and has purposely hired Ted to destroy the team in order to stick it to her ex. An added layer of fun is provided here with the fish out of water element of the story finding Ted trying to adjust to British life, but it looks like the real fun here is going to be the battle of wits between Ted and Rebecca and seeing how long it's going to take Ted to figure out what Rebecca is doing. Loved when Rebecca threw Ted in front of that baptismal fire called a press conference and pulled his fat out of the fire at the last second and the surprisingly touching ending with Ted on the phone with his wife and son was unexpectedly poignant. Loved the statuesque Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca and Juno Temple lit up the screen as one of the team member's girlfriend. Will definitely be watching this.

Re: Ted Lasso
 

Lovely show.

I was interested in the moment I heard Bill Lawrence (of Scrubs fame) was involved. Seems impossible he wouldn't make a good show, at this point, and this is no exception.

So far, fewer genuinely laugh-out-loud moments than Scrubs, tied almost entirely to the fact that it's a good deal more realistic than that show was, but it has a similar heart and is still quite funny. And yes, very interesting, well-written characters, and infectiously good-natured.

Just wrapped ep 2. It seems that Ted might not be as dim as Rebecca thinks he is. Like the fact that he's staying in her face with his morning biscuit visits. I thought putting a suggestion box in the locker room was a little corny, but loved when he was reading the suggestions in the bar. I'm liking the juxtaposing of Ted trying to keep Jamie (Phil Dunster) while possibly romancing his girlfriend, Keely (Juno Temple) behind Jamie's back. Sedeikis nailed that little scene in the office with Jamie and I am LOVING Jeremy Swift as Higgins, Rebecca's flying monkey.

As I wrap the third ep of season 1, I'm beginning to wonder if a lot of Ted's folksy corn fed charm and often confusing analogies and metaphors are no accident. This guy is a lot more intelligent than what we're being shown right now. I'm looking forward to seeing Roy take the place with the team that Jamie has right now. Also looking forward to the evolution of Nate the equipment manager becoming a major force behind Ted's coaching. Rebecca is showing just enough vulnerability to make her the perfect character you love to hate,

Loved the whole bachelor auction motif for ep 4. First of all, I have to reiterate that I am LOVING Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca. With the aid of some really deft writing, she is creating a three dimensional villainness whose greatest asset is her vulnerability. I was wondering at the end of ep 3 if we were ever going to get to meet Rebecca's ex and you could have knocked me over with a feather when he appeared in ep 4. Rebecca is clearly still in love with the man and that love is obviously the impetus for everything she does, which might signify a major change in her treatment of the team and of Ted. Loved Keely's revenge on Jamie, though I wasn't expecting their breakup this soon. Now that they've broken up, maybe Roy will stop fighting his feelings for Keely, before she turns to Ted. Loving this silly show.

Ep 5 was appointment television primarily due to the dazzling work from Jason Sudeikis as the title character, whether reuniting with his family, trying to stay two steps of Rebecca, or trying to make Jamie a team player, Sudeikis totally ruled in this episode and I wouldn't be surprised if this was the episode that was submitted to the Hollywood Foreign Press, who gave the actor his first Golden Globe. His reunion with his wife (Andrea Anders) was sweet and moving. I think he made all the right moves with Michelle, even though it was never made clear why Michelle was so unhappy. I loved the way Ted talked openly about his marital troubles with Rebecca, Coach, Nate, and Higgins. Can't wait to see Roy and Keely get together. Love this silly show.

Definitely some surprises in ep 6. Loved the way this alleged curse brought the team together in a way they had never been before. The relationship between Rebecca and Keely is definitely growing legs and I'm also loving that Rebecca seems to be losing Higgins, though I think his defection to Ted is going to cost him dearly and that's why we got a glance of Higgins' family in the last ep. Loving Sam too...what a charmer that guy is, his scene with Rebecca was lovely...definitely want to see his role beefed up. Love Dani Rojas and to get some insight into why Jamie is the way he is and I don't believe for a minute that he's gone for good. Love this silly show.

Ep 7 was excellent, all kinds of stuff going on here...absolutely LOVED the scene in the lockeroom where Nate gave the team his notes...brilliantly written and directed...his comparison of Dani Rojas to Carrie Bradshaw was classic. Love the relationship that is developing between Rebecca and Keeley...they were joking about it, but I wouldn't be shocked if something sexual happened between these two...there is a subtle sexual tension between these two characters that is slowing simmering to the surface. Would love some more backstory regarding Rebecca's marriage...this Rupert guy really did a number on her. Ted's meltdown at the karaoke bar was heartbreaking. This divorce seems to be affecting him the same way Rupert affected Rebecca. Also loved Rebecca's karaoke performance...Hannah Waddingham has a serious set of pipes. Glad Roy is trying to open up to Keeley. but I see some heartbreak for him down the road...Keeley's got so much going on with other characters she will not be able to give Roy the attention he needs.
Loving this silly show.

Ep 8 was great...I am LOVING what's going on between Roy and Keeley. Keeley has never had to work this hard for a man's attention and I think it's going to be really good for her, made only more complicated by the fact that Jamie, as I suspected is not out of the picture. The dart game was fantastic...love watching Ted Have Rebecca's back with Rupert, who is a total prick! Higgins and Rebecca parting ways was no surprise, but I was sure Rebecca would fire him before Higgins would quit. Love this silly show.

Ep 9 was all about Hannah Waddingham as Rebecca and Brett Goldstein as Roy...Waddingham was brilliant in that confession scene with Ted and even though I suspected it early on, the way Ted reacted to the confession confirms for me that he knew what Rebecca was doing all along. She also nailed the scene where Rupert informed her he was about to have a baby with his girlfriend. He knows all of Rebecca's buttons and apparently this was a big one...the guy is pure slime. Goldstein and the writers are creating a deliciously complex and unpredictable character in Roy and I'm loving the fact that Keely seems to be the only one who can really get him to open up. Loving Ted's analogies and metaphors, I don't know how the writers come up with these things...loved when he said something Rebecca said was like Woody Allen playing the clarinet, I don't wanna hear it. Also loving Ted's progress in learning how to handle the press. Love this silly show.

Well, what can I say? The season one finale was nothing short of spectacular filled with enough surprises to rivet us and enough suspense to make us long for season 2. Even though it happened a lot quicker than I thought it was going to, I was thrilled that Nate was made a coach. I was surprised that Roy made Isaac captain, I have to admit I thought he was going to give it to Sam. Love Sam, hope to see his role beefed up in season two. I was surprised that the Roy/Keely/Jamie triangle still has legs because Keeley's heart really seems to be with Roy now, but she can't seem to tell Jamie that (even with that terrible haircut) and I'm surprised that Roy is putting up with it. Can't wait to see where it goes next season. The game itself was fantastic...loved when Jamie actually passed the ball and Ted sent him the note about it and the cheer for Roy when he got injured. This show is a lot of fun and can't wait to get into the second season.

Re: Ted Lasso
 

Maybe I’ll take another swing at this inspired by @Gideon58’s reviews.

I would if I were you...I think this show is fantastic...the writing is brilliant.

Will definitely consider it.

I have one for you: The White Lotus on hbo. Terrific 6-parter (renewed for a 2nd season on hbo). I think you would enjoy this show.

Just watched the second season opener and I was a little disappointed that this show fell into a trap a lot of shows like this do...there were events that happened between the first and second season played offscreen that I would have preferred to have seen played onscreen. Primarily, Roy's retirement from the team and taking a position coaching a little girls' soccer team. It was fun though watching him treat the girls just like he was coaching adult players. The whole thing with Dani Rojas was a little hard to process. I'm still finding it hard to believe that a soccer ball hitting a dog could actually kill him, but I'm glad the event has not permanently removed Dani from the team. Keely and Roy's double date with Rebecca and her new guy was a hoot and what Roy told Rebecca was absolutely correct. Also LOVED the way Jamie was reintroduced in season 2. Loving this silly show.

The second ep of season 2 featured some solid work from Phil Dunster as Jamie began his journey back to Richmond. Loved when he confronted Keeley after following her around during her lunch hour. I loved the way Ted let Sam have his say about Jamie before he told him that Jamie wasn't coming back. LOVED Roy's appearance on that sports show and I'm glad we got a glance of his retirement from Richmond. The lady psychiatrist is a real Debbie Downer and Ted may have created a real **** storm here even though we all saw it coming. Love this silly show.

Definitely could.

Nick Mohammed who plays Nate was featured in a very good NY Times article on Sunday. He said he knows nothing about football & has to have all the terms explained to him.

And he actually lives in Richmond where the show is set. Said it’s strange, but not unpleasant, being recognized there.

At one time he was pursuing a doctorate in geophysics at Cambridge.

I was provided a delicious surprise as the fourth ep of season 2 turned out to be the show's first holiday-themed episode as we got to watch the folks of Richmond celebrate Christmas. So glad that Rebecca got Ted out of the house...what they did was absolutely lovely. I was so impressed that Higgins actually invites the whole team to his house. Loved that Sam turned one of Higgins' kids into a believer. Sam is seriously awesome. The diagnosis regarding Phoebe's breath...is that a thing? Loved their encounter with the bully and the cue cards. And does Hannah Waddingham have serious pipes or what? Loved this show.

Okay, just realized that I somehow skipped ep 3, so I'm watching it now.

Watched ep 3 and fortunately, I don't think I messed up my comprehension of the show by watching ep 4 first. Loved everything that happened with Sam. Glad to learn that he's more than a pretty face and actually has a social conscience and loved that the entire staff and team of Richmond had his back. Jamie seems sincere about making amends with his teammates but he clearly has no idea how to do it. I'm thinking that talking to Dr. Debbie Downer will help. Rebecca's relationship with her goddaughter allowed us another peek into the vulnerability of this character, who I am growing to love more with each episode. The introduction of Led Tasso was kind of odd and even when I realized why he did it, I'm not sure it was necessary. Roy is going to be the star of that sports show before the season is over and I'm loving watching Ted handle the art of the press conference. Love this silly show.

Just finished ep 5 and it's official...Roy Kent is my favorite character on this show. This guy is so raw and funny and completely unpredictable. Loved his handling of Isaac and I have to admit that I will miss him on that TV show Soccer Saturday. Nate looked a little intimidated when Roy arrived on the sidelines and he should be. Speaking of Nate, he is behind my one minor problem with this show: Am I the only one who has trouble hearing and understanding him? I have to put closed captioning on when I watch this show because, otherwise, I would miss most of what Nate says. Really enjoyed that scene where Higgins was gushing to Rebecca about his wife because it seemed like this was the first time since he began working for Richmond that anyone has ever asked him about his personal life. We're getting a lot of change and growth from several characters and it's all because of Ted...he has a magical effect on these people that I'm not sure he's even aware of. Loved when he was paraphrasing all of those famous movie quotes to Ted and I couldn't believe we actual got the second reference to Sex and the City on this show. Seriously loving this show.

Everything that happened between Roy and Jamie was the highlight of ep 6 of season 2. I'm very pleased with Jamie's sincerity about becoming more of a team player and I love the irony of his being a team player being the exact thing the team doesn't need right now. Introducing Rebecca's new boy toy and her mother in the same episode seemed to bit of an overload. That whole thing with Higgins and Coach was a bit odd too. It just seemed so out of character for Higgins to be poking his nose in someone else's business and the fact that it seemed to work out was a little convenient. I knew eventually Ted was going to explode...he's been sitting on too much stuff for too long and am looking forward to hearing what he has to say Dr Debbie Downer. Seriously loving this show.

Just finished ep 7 and loved the reveal that Sam is the one that Rebecca has been texting with on the dating app. The ironic thing is they would be perfect for each other, but Rebecca won't be able to handle it. I'm glad that Roy and Keeley worked things out, though I never really bought that needy, clingy thing Roy was doing because it was completely out of character for him. Ted and Debbie Downer are starting to piss me off because it's becoming obvious that Ted is going to begin therapy but we are not going to be privy to any of it. I'm also glad that Nate got taken down a couple of pegs in this ep because all the attention he's been getting on social media has gone to his head and I'm starting not to like him.

Just learned that my new favorite binge has been nominated for 20 Emmys on Sunday, including four nominees in the Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy category. Impressive.

Ep 8 was freaking fantastic! The writers seem to want to give a vulnerable side to Dr Debbie Downer in order to make us like her, but I'm not feeling it. Maybe I'll feel it a little more if Ted actually talks to her regarding his big reveal. LOVED everything that happened with Sam and Rebecca...Rebecca's initially reaction to what was going on was exactly what I expected, but I'm glad Sam is not giving up, even though Rebecca is going to be fighting it tooth and nail. The Diamond Dogs confession circle was brilliantly written and performed. I was expecting the loss at Wembley, but I wish it hadn't been a blowout. I would have preferred to see them lose in the final seconds. The scene with Jamie and his father was incredible...loved the actor who played Mr. Tartt and Roy hugging Jamie was something I wouldn't have seen coming in a million years. speaking of Roy, I couldn't believe that he was actually shocked that Phoebe might be swearing because of him, or was he just pretending to be shocked that's what I love about Brett Goldstein as Roy...you're never sure where his head is at and that's what makes the character so fascinating. Would love to see Goldstein win an Emmy on Sunday. Seriously loving this show.

Happy to report that the show won four big Emmys...Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Jason Sudeikis); Outstanding Supporting Actor (Brett Goldstein) and Outstanding Supporting Actress (Hannah Waddingham). Congratulations! All richly deserved.

This show has provided eighteen episodes of sterling entertainment, but I am scratching my head trying to figure out the hot mess that was season 2 ep 9. I just don't know what was going on here. I do know that Brendan Hunt, who plays Coach, is one of the show's creators and that his character has kind of been on the periphery of things up to this point and maybe he demanded that an episode be centered around him, but they really missed the boat here. From everyone blaming Coach for the Wembley loss to getting in a fight with Jamie's father, this just didn't work for me, even if it was supposed to be a fantasy, it never fully committed to being a fantasy and just didn't work for me. This was the first episode of this show that I had difficulty getting through, but every show has a misstep and I'm hoping this is the last one for this show, especially after its big night at the Emmys. Still, seriously loving this show.

Finally just last night fired up this series. Watched eps 1 & 2. Will continue this evening. My wife loved it right away, and she's very picky...:) I thought the premise too silly, but it started to get my attention. Sudeikis has a certain charm. I could live without some of the language, but that genie is not likely to be put back into the bottle anytime soon. Looking forward to see where the series is going. Gideon, I'll be avoiding your updates until after the series..;)

Well, the season 2 finale bounced back quite nicely from the mess that was ep 9. I'm still pulling for Rebecca and Sam...Sam took it like the class act that he is. I was glad that we got a glimpse into Ted's inner demons, it was long overdue. I have a feeling this examination into what makes Ted tick could go into some dark and dangerous places, though this show isn't really about dark and dangerous. The juxtaposing of Ted's session with Rebecca's memories regarding her father was beautifully executed. Very nice that the entire team showed up for Rebecca's father's funeral, though Rupert's arrival really threw cold water on the whole thing, was that really necessary. Also LOVING that we're going to get a four alarm romantic triangle with Roy, Keeley, and Jamie...excellent work from Brett Goldstein and Juno Temple in those scenes. Looking forward to the third (and rumored final) season. Seriously loving this show.

There's actually a couple more episodes, I believe. This season's a bit longer than the first.

Oh, well the first season was ten episodes so I assumed the second was the same...thanks so much for letting me know.

Yeah they also still have quite a bit of story to tell...looks like next episode is a Roy episode and the finale is Sudekis written (he hasn't done any episodes this season).

Glad I found out there was more to season 2, I actually thought ep 10 was the last.

To me, season 2 started a little off the rails-- too scattered. Have watched the first 2 eps only, so it'll likely get back on track.

WELL... To my taste Season 2 started off shakily and went down from there. I held on for awhile, but after struggling through episode 8, I finally had to bail. I felt like I was watching a video of a grade school girls' slumber party. Just not my kind of fare.

Lot of interesting stuff going on in ep 11...they seem to be testing out possible new couplings and I'm not sure if I like anything they've proposed so far. I hope Dr. Debbie Downer is really going, but I have a feeling she's not. Brett Goldstein was brilliant as Roy Kent found himself feeling some new feelings...loved that confession scene with him and Keely. Glad to see Sam getting the attention he deserves but that last scene with Rebecca DESTROYED me...I refuse to give up on these two. Impressive work from Sam Richardson as Edwin Akufo, who made the most of a thankless role on Veep. And I knew there was a reason I've started hating Nate this season. Seriously loving this show.

Re: Ted Lasso
 

Re: Gulfport's thing about "grade school girls' slumber party." I may partially agree, depending on your precise meaning. If you mean that it's just a little too twee, I'm on board with that. I say that as someone who didn't think the first season went too far in this direction, but does feel the second has.

It may be that the first season's strong response produced many articles, and those articles reductively ascribed its quality to its general optimism, so the second season has leaned into that even though it was not the only component of what made the first season good. It could also be that season two is simultaneously touching on some darker stuff and they thought it important to counterbalance. I'm not sure.

I adored Lawrence's Scrubs, which was simultaneously very serious and very silly, but it was silly rather than schmaltzy and walked the line where all of the heartfelt stuff felt earned. Possibly because heartfelt and schmaltzy are not the same thing: characters being genuine and supportive is not the same thing as just being rote cheerleaders for one another. They need real conflict, too, and sometimes their support needs to be genuinely sad, and contain genuine pathos. This show is starting to lose that a bit, I think. It's losing the crucial element of any intimate relationship where it is occasionally hard to support someone you care about.

Anyway, still a very good show, and I have a fair bit of confidence it will find its footing again because there's a lot of genuine talent involved.

One thing to consider is that things might feel a bit off because the two "extra" episodes were added late (Apple ordered two more after they saw how the first season was being received) and shoehorned in as standalones.

Well that's it for the season, I think it was honestly a brilliant season that built up and established a pair of heavy's for next year.

The good - Sam is great in small doses, though I hope he doesn't have to get a storyline every season.

The bad - Coach Beard's solo episode was the low point of the season, I really like his relationship with his girlfriend and I hope that becomes a focus next season.

The good - Nate's arc has come full circle he's now clearly the bad guy and the show now has a worthy rival...conflict was getting a little stale this year.

The bad - I do worry the show is going to turn into Lost with to many plot points running around. This was Roy's season and Keely was a very strong part it, I don't want this to be a get together break up get together type plotline.

The good - Ted Lasso still manages the warm feels, though not as strong as season one it's still the best comedy on TV.

I'm assuming with everything that happened in ep 12, that it was the season 2 finale and it did not disappoint. Don't really understand Nate's complete 180 turn to villain this season and that scene where Nate confronts Ted, though wonderfully acted by Nick Mohammed, didn't justify Nate's behavior, which has been borderline childish, so I'm happy with how the story wrapped. The conclusion of Sam's story satisfied as well. Hated the way the fans and social media tramped all over Ted. LOVED his speech to the team though...brilliantly written. Hope Ted can honestly and openly work on his issues...the act of going public is a nice start, but he has to do some work now. And on the flip side of Nate, I love the evolution of Jamie Tart's character this season, the growth in this character has been remarkable and believable for the most part. It wasn't clear as to whether or not Keeley is gone, but if she is, I'm good with that. Looking forward to season 3.

Re: Ted Lasso
 

Re: Ted Lasso
 

They're coming out with a Ted Lasso ice cream in a couple weeks and it sounds...pretty good. Probably gonna try it out.

Ted's farewell to his son was a lovely and low-key opening to season 3. Loved the soccer game made out of legos. Who is Ted's shrink sleeping with and is it even relevant? Noticed Brett Goldstein, Emmy winner last year for playing Roy, is now billed as executive producer. I see everyone is still feeling the sting of Nate's betrayal last season. How is he even still of the coaching staff? "People typing and being awkward and everything." I love that her friendship with Keeley has continued to soften Rebecca. The TLC reference was classic. Loved when Rupert had Nate's car towed. "it's a good rule of thumb to never ask a hippie to come in on his day off." Loved when Nate answered a question at the press conference with lyrics from The King & I. Have a feeling that Ted's sewer analogy went by most of the team, even if they wouldn't admit it. It's really time for Rebecca to start caring about this team more than sticking it to Rupert. As he always does, Ted nailed his press conference.

The opening of ep 2 clearly proved that a parting of the ways between Keeley and her new job is just a matter of time. This Crimm guy writing a book was a terrible idea even before w eknew everyone else was against it, but it could be an interesting storyline and I'm sure Ted only said yes because everyone else said no. "He goes through teams like you go through manicurists." Why would they discuss the acquisition of a new player in front of Crimm? Even if he is writing a book, that shouldn't allow him complete access to everything about the team. I don't know why, but Isaac's little exchange with Keeley about the shoes had me on the floor. If they're breaking up Keeley and Roy to put her back with Jamie , that's a big mistake. The Roy/Jamie encounter was excellent. "Beg to differ, Claudia Schiffer." That You Tube video was hysterical. LOVED Roy's warning to the team about Crimm and I totally agree with him. "I saw you...in Vanity Fair...fully clothed...and I cried...I'm so proud." Rebecca's mother is a waste of screentime. Crimm and Roy sharing an office? No good can come of that. Roy's balloon popping was brilliant. I guess Barbara icing out Shandy was supposed to make her more villainous, but I completely agreed with her. And I think, deep down, Keeley knew she was right. Not happy that Barbara caved. The actress playing Barbara reminds me of Melanie Lynskey. Loved Rebecca's outfit at the game...very smart. Very gracious of Roy to acknowledge the shout out from his old team, did not see that coming. Love Richmond's away uniforms, don't think we've ever seen those before. "It bounced off my face...but my face almost scored." My hope that Rebecca might start to care more about them than sticking it to her e-husband seems to have been dashed...for now. Rebecca's restroom speech to Zava was brilliant though Zava''s change of heart could have taken a little longer and what does Jamie have against Zava? Another beautiful monologue from Brett Goldstein at the end of the show. This episode was so entertaining and so much happened I was shocked to see is running time was only 46 minutes.

Re: Ted Lasso
 

Trent Crimm, formerly of The Independent, is a good character and I am glad he has an expanded role this season. I don't find him to be at all untrustworthy. He is presented as a good journalist, and a fair one. The exception being his early days which coincided with Roy Kent's debut, thus Roy carrying around the article that haunted him for all of these years and Crimm's owning up to it as an example of a gotchya and provocative style that he abandoned long ago. I wouldn't even be surprised if Trent Crimm is brought in, formally or informally, as one of the Diamond Dogs. James Lance is terrific playing him, Crimm's perspective is good, and he will continue to prove ultimately to be an ally, not a villain.

OK, was that Jamie in the opening scene of ep 3, and if so, all I can say is WTF? why would Ted allow Crimm to be present during that meeting? Even if he is writing a book on the team, this guy is being allowed way too much access to the team. "Don't sell yourself shot, if anything sell yourself tall and get you altered later." LOVED the staff's discussion of their favorite Julie Andrews performance. Glad to see that someone on the team is way about Zava...the way most of the team is worshiping this guy doesn't feel right. Not feeling Keeley's friend, Shandy yet...so far, she seems like a waste of screentime. What happened with Zava's contract made the entire company look like idiots. Loved Zava's kicks. Lost it when Zava asked the team to breathe with him. My first thought when Rebecca visited her psychic was that it was her shrink, which wouldn't have surprised me. Don't really understand why Rebecca sees a psychic. Why is her mother paying for Rebecca to see a psychic? Loved Rebecca's reaction to her prediction though. I guess something's going to happen between Shandy and Roy...Shandy is not even being subtle about her attraction to the man. "Nice to a put a face to the...hair.": Glad the team is finally getting that they're just going to be window dressing for Zava. Seemed kind of odd that they would bring Ted's ex back to the canvas after all this time...just to show us that she has moved on? Jason Sudeikis played the hell out of that scene though. Why do we care that one of the barflies that follows Richmond got a job? OK, Ted's ex is dating their former marriage counselor? That's funny, but it's the last thing that Ted needs right now. Not happy that it triggered the return of Dr Debbie Donwer. It's probably a ways off, but Zava is going to destroy this team as the rest of the team begins feeling shut out. OK, the guy in the opening scene wasn't Jamie and do any of his teammates know Coliin is gay? Loved Roy's distinction between "frowning" and "never smiling." The Roy/Jamie scene was excellent. Is Collin the reason Crimm has been given access to Richmond? Excellent episode.

Impressed that Brett Goldstein (Roy) wrote ep 4. Roy waking up Jamie was a very funny opening. Glad to see Ted got laid, he really needed it. Loved the references to No Strings Attached and Friends with Benefits, two movies with practically identical plots released the same year. That outfit Keeley had on in her first scene was hideous. "You fellas need to calm down and just kiss." The spell that Zava is casting over the team continues to amuse, but something's got to give. Didn't really get that thing with the "Believe" sign. What was the point of blocking the players' faces on those little dating tapes? Loved Shandy's instant attraction to Jamie, that could definitely go somewhere. OK, what did Nate think messing with that sign and how did he get into the locker room even though he doesn't work there anymore? "Thank you for the help Trim...may young Robert Redford portray you in a film someday." Really trying to figure out where Nate's head is right now, he seems to be all over the place. Hate that, after everything that has happened, Rupert still seems to have so much control over Rebecca. Loved the slo-mo entrance of the team into the stadium. Didn't get the point of the Keeley and the tampon in the bathroom scene. That was an interesting moment when Rupert interrupted Nate's talk with Ted in the elevator, can't help but wonder what Nate was going to say if they hadn't been interrupted. If I haven't said before, I love Richmond's away uniforms. Why would Nate be on the same side of the field as the Richmond staff? Wouldn't he be across the field? Hannah Waddingham nailed that scene with Jason Sudeikus at halftime in the hallway. I guess somewhere along the way I missed the true significance of that believe sign. Understand the team's anger but taking on the field the way they did was stupid. Loved the reveal about Rupert that Rebecca witnessed and can't wait to see how she's going to use it against him and you know she will. That final face time scene with Ted and his ex (Andrea Anders) was lovely.

In (original flavor) football the benches are both on the same side of the pitch (or "field", if you will), so you periodically get this sort of thing: x

That said, the show's overall portrayal of football is questionable at best. It's a workplace show that's tangentially about football.

OK, thanks, I didn't know that.

There was a genuine tension to the opening scene of ep 5....everyone leaving the field trying to figure out how they lost. Tension to humor quickly as the staff discussed which way was north. The Scene with Rebecca running into her old boyfriend and his new fiancee seemed like so much filler, hopefully it will become important later. I'm glad to see the powers that be see that Shandy is in the wrong business and you just know they're going to leave it to Kelley to get rid of her. I'm getting bored with Zava and his pretentious ramblings already. LOVED Roy's plan on how to deal with bullies. Even though I could see it coming, why does that guy think the problem with Richmond is Ted? Ted is not the problem with Richmond, but I'm not sure what is. Another hideous outfit for Juno Temple...that lime green floor length skirt was the worst. Shandy's Jerry Maguire firing was funny, but went on a little longer than needed. A little surprised by the reveal that Rebecca wants a child, did not see that coming for some reason. Really starting to hate Barbara. "Gentle reminder to cancel her security badge." Didn't really care about Nate nd his date with supemodel Anatasia. The disappearance of Zava came off as kind of contrived; no athletic team in any sport should be that dependent on a single player anyway. The way Zava walked away from the team was unprofessional and childish. Ted did have a point that Zava didn't really want to be with Richmond. Jason Sudeikus nailed Ted's final lockerroom speech. Love the vulnerability Sudeikus brings to the character.

Brett has been a writer on the show all along.

Roy's handling of that reporter during the opening ep 6 was classic Roy. Glad they didn't forget about Roy training Jamie. How odd that that guy didn't jump in to help Rebecca. "I would like to single tulip,,,an entire field of tulips would be overwhelming." Isaac was really funny in that scene in the hotel lobby. Everything with Higgins and he equipment manager brought the show to a halt. :That's like hiding poop inside a smoothie of barf." Liking this possible new romantic interest for Rebecca...there's some chemistry going on there. "I can call a cab for you and your ag of wet clothes." Loved the name of the gay bar Collin entered. It was weird and a little convenient that Ted was so interested in going out with Rebecca now. Lost it when Jamie was trying to teach Roy how to ride a bank with "Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head" on the audio...awesome. Loved the reveal about Trim. Like the bonding between Roy and Jamie but don't have a clue where it's going. Am I the only one who thought it was odd that restaurant was showing a game that originally aired when Ted was a child? Didn't really understand Ted's little triangle fantasy. A pillow fight? Really? Everything Coach did in this episode was so weird.

Meaning Coach Beard? Who was tripping on acid? Yeah.

It was nice to see Sam at the opening of ep 7, I was beginning to think the show had forgotten about him. Coach's speech about total football is strange. "Miss Jones, we have a problem...oh no we don't, force of habit." Ted inviting those fans to practice has trouble written all over it. Barbara is straight up evil. Until we met them, I didn't realize that I really don't care about Nate's family. Isaac and Rojas imitating each other was hilarious. Looks like Keeley's new girlfriend might be a little cray-cray. First episode in a LONG time where I've seen Roy crack a smile. The penis ropes had me on the floor. Keeley's ensemble at the outdoor cafe was ridiculous? Why are they dressing her so weird? I feel terrible for Sam, he doesn't deserve what's happening to him. Loved what his father was wearing though. Dad's advice to Sam was perfection. "Don't fight back...fight forward." Does Sam's father know he slept with Rebecca? It was hard to tell when they met. Ted referencing the Blue Collar Comedy Tour was funny as hell, not to mention the blank expressions it elicited from the team. Didn't really see it until this episode, but I'm impressed with the growth of Jamie since season 1. LOVED the team cleaning up Sam's restaurant, that was so sweet and unexpected. Hope we get to see more of Sam's father, I really like him.

The tense meeting between Ted, his ex, and her new boyfriend was a lot of fun. Loved that neither Jake nor Ted had change for Henry. Poor Ted...his heart sank when he learned Jake was taking his ex to Paris, superbly played by Jason Sudeikis. Not really feeling Keeley and her new girlfriend. Not feeling Nate and his new girlfriend either. The writers seem to be trying to redeem Nate from his new villain position established at the end of last season. Surprised how long it took for Keeley's past to catch up to her and why now? Not crazy that Trim has been welcomed so comfortably into the coaching inner circle...something I don't like about that guy. " Ted, I ran down the stairs for this and up some other stairs." Loved that Rupert chose not to attend Nate's meeting. Nate's attempt to duplicate the diamond Dogs was kind of lame. "Now I have to find out if I'm right before I flip out when I do." Interesting that Jack took it upon himself to write statement for Keeley. The team's discussion of privacy and the internet was interesting. Loved Isaac's sweatsuit. Very classy the way he took the high road with Collin. Loved Keeley's reply when Rebecca asked if she could do anything to help. "Just think how many women you are going to help to learn to masturbate properly." Roy was fantastic with Keeley until he asked who the video was for...great work by Brett Goldstein in that scene though. Is it just me, or is Ted's son, Henry a little old for bedtime stories? It's kind of hard to read exactly what Ted is feeling about Jake, and Jason has to take a lot of the credit for that with this wonderfully subtle underplay. Coach was so creepy in that scene with Ted and Henry. How does Henry know Nate? It's a little hard to believe that a kid Henry's age would be so knowledgeable about the Beatles. Loved the phone call between Ted and Rebecca. Didn't see the Jamie reveal coming.

:Just because they're dirty doesn't mean they don't deserve to have a friend." So is it the entire team icing out Collin or is it just Isaac? That was funny when Ted put the money in the biscuit box for Keeley. Loved Ted's country song "Heart Bent". Roy really seems to be trying to change, but I'm not so sure that's a good thing. Looks like Rupert is going to try and steal Jade from Nate. Coach was a little much at the press conference, but why were they discussing rock guitarists? "Everyone of you knows my ass isn't hairy, yet none of you spoke up." Loved the Roy/Rebecca scene. Rupert is so creepy, can he be hit by a bus? Collin need to let Isaac be where he is. Isaac attacking that fan was all kinds of wrong. Loved Ted's story and the fact that Jamie didn't know who the Denver Broncos are. Loved that Isaac's absence made Sam the captain. Loved Nate's suit. That thing with Rupert and the girls was creepy and I'm glad that Nate got out of there. Brett Goldstein nailed Roy's press conference. That final scene between Collin and Isaac was awesome.

What was that thing with Dani Rojas in the opening scene? Love that Rebecca has Rupert on her phone as "The Devil," Nate leaving his job felt like there was a lot of stuff payed offscreen that should have played on...what happened? "That's a complicated compliment." Another outrageous ensemble from Keeley...that green suit was the worst. "Keep your head up. Be a goldfish." The chemistry between Rebecca and Sam is still there...definitely. "Any day that annoys Roy, holiday for me!" Loved Jamie's gift to Roy. Sam's handling of Edwin was classy, but did I miss something/ Why does this guy hate Sam so much? Loved that Leslie thinks the kids in Willie Wonka died. The reactions to Roy's tie dye were a bit much. This thing of Keeley acting like she's the only person in the history of time to lose her job is tiresome and a waste of screentime. Didn't get the thing of Rebecca and the mirror either. So glad that Rebecca didn't fall for Edwin's pitch. Didn't really get the Nate on the violin thing, but I would bet my next paycheck that Nick Mohommed wasn't really playing. The actor playing Nate's father was excellent. The aftermath of the food fight or whatever it was would have been better if the entire thing had played out...just showing everyone covered in food made no sense. Brett Goldstein was fantastic in that scene with Keeley. "would you mind loosening your grip, I need to get the slip so you can reimburse me." That dress Rebecca had on in the last scene with Ted was breathtaking. Odd, but watchable episode...hope we're going to find out exactly what happened with Nate and Rupert.

Ted's mother? For some reason, the last character I thought we'd be meeting on this show. Why does the team want Nate back now? What was up with Jamie at that press conference? "This one popped out and immediately asked the doctor if he needed anything." "No...shouting is Roy's love language." I'm glad at least Coach doesn't want Nate to come back to Richmond. Barbara was looking at Roy like he was a hot fudge sundae. "That is not my cup of tea. And you know I love my tea." Are we ever going to learn exactly what's going on with Nate? Did Keeley actually use the word "precipice" ? Loved the team tearing up over You've Got Mail and the glimmer of hope provided for fans of Sam and Rebecca. Loved that Jamie had posters of both Roy and Keeley in his bedroom? Really liked the actress who played Jamie's mother. Rebecca's story about Freddie Mercury was the best. Loved the opposing team coach...he looked like a Bond villain. That was sad what happened with Jamie at the game. That was the closest thing we've ever gotten to backstory regarding Coach. Jason Sudeikis and Becky Ann Baker were wonderful in that final scene with Ted and his mom.

Re: Ted Lasso
 

I know plenty of fans had problems with the third season of "Ted Lasso" but I enjoyed it and got all of the requisite laughs and tears from it that I expected. It seems the main complaint is that everything was rushed or tied up too conveniently, but I went with it and enjoyed it all.

OK, really don't get what the opening of ep 12 was all about. Coach in a thong? Did we really need to see that? I'm a little troubled that Nate has been welcomed back to the team with no questions or recriminations at all. It seems like a bunch of stuff between ep 11 and this one was played offscreen. When did Ted's leaving his job come about? ":So Long Farewell" was beautifully staged and performed. This whole episode seems to be making a 360 degree revolve back to season 1. The actress playing Rebecca's mother looks just like the actress playing the siblings' mom on Succession. Like that Crimm is being brought down to earth by learning that his book is not the gold he thinks it is. The obligatory scene of Rebecca trying to talk Ted out of leaving was beautifully written and executed. Loved that Keeley kicked both Roy and Jamie out of her apartment. "I was trying to come in soft like a human cottonball." "I'm like Michael Flatley at 11:59 PM on St Patrick's Day...I'm tapped out." Loved the team weeping before the final game. What was the point of the shot of Ted's downer therapist during the game when we haven't seen her for over a season? "Loved meeting the men you were and getting front row seats to the men you've become." Don't really understand why they would tear down that sign but keep the pieces. Crossed fingers? Even Roy? Seriously? LOVE that Roy was made new manager of the team. Really sad to see this show wrapping up, I could easily seen three or four more seasons. Jason Sudeikis and company...thank you, for three seasons of rich and glorious entertainment.

Re: Ted Lasso
 

Watched an episode of this for the first time and couldnt get into it...I'm a sports fan, but Sudeikis's accent was distracting to me, and the jokes weren't really my style.

This is months later, but for what it's worth, I had a similar reaction at first but I liked it more as it went on. It's very much character-based comedy, so it needs the viewer to get a sense of everyone to find their interactions funny or, in this case, funny because they're so apropos.

Anyway, few episodes into the third season now, should be caught up soon.

It was okay.

Fans of the series might be interested in checking out an Apple TV musical special headlined by Hannah Waddingham, who played Rebecca on the show, called Hannah Waddingham:
Home for Christmas, which features the actress showing off her powerhouse pipes and guest appearances from Leslie Odom Jr and cameos from several Ted Lasso cast members. I've reviewed the show on my review thread.

What accent?

Re: Ted Lasso
 

Assuming that's a real question, I think it was some kind of southern accent, but it came off odd to me.

Oh, ok, didn't really bother me, I just thought it effectively reminded us that Ted Lasso was basically a fish out of water here, evidenced in the expressions and stories he would tell the team that would just draw blank expressions from the team.

Re: Ted Lasso
 

The character Ted Lasso, as well as Jason Sudeikis in real life, are both from Kansas City, MO. I reckon it is a regional Midwest-ish American accent, likely exaggerated for comic effect, though I can't vouch for how accurate it is or isn't. For a fictional character on a dramady I had zero issues with it. It is nowhere near as pronounced nor heavy as say Julia Garner's portrayal of Ruth Langmore's accent on "Ozark", which is set in a much more rural (fictional) section of Missouri.