The New Season of Ted Lasso Is Actually … Good?

The surprise return of Ted Lasso has left many wondering if the creative team behind the beloved sitcom has taken heed of criticisms and is attempting to course-correct. The original run, which concluded with its third season in 2023, was starting to feel like a tired retread of familiar tropes and character beats.

One of the most striking aspects of this new season is its willingness to tackle more concrete issues. Gone are the vague New Age platitudes about self-empowerment and positive thinking that dominated the show’s early seasons. Instead, we’re presented with characters facing real-world obstacles, such as a single mother struggling to balance childcare responsibilities with her role as a soccer player.

The introduction of new supporting cast members, particularly Tanya Reynolds’ Alice Chilton, adds fresh energy to the show. Her portrayal of an acting coach who’s both confident and skeptical of Ted’s involvement raises questions about sexism in the soccer world that are all too relevant today. The dynamic between Alice and Rebecca, played by Hannah Waddingham, is also noteworthy for its lack of sentimentality.

The show’s newfound focus on problem-solving over pop psychology is a welcome change. Rather than relying on convenient plot devices or contrived obstacles, the writers allow the characters to navigate real-world challenges. This approach may result in a lighter, more satisfying viewing experience but risks undermining the show’s core message about the power of positive thinking.

The elephant in the room, however, is why Ted Lasso needed to return at all. The original run was already feeling overstayed by its third season, and the intervening years have done little to address the criticisms leveled against it. With so many other excellent shows vying for attention, one can’t help but wonder if this fourth season is simply a cash-grab or a genuine attempt to reinvigorate the franchise.

The introduction of a women’s team at AFC Richmond marks a significant shift in the show’s focus. No longer is the primary concern centered around Ted’s struggles as a foreign coach in a male-dominated world; instead, we’re presented with a new cast of characters and storylines that explore the challenges faced by women in professional soccer.

Reviving a beloved franchise like Ted Lasso is no easy feat. With so many variables at play – character development, plot progression, tone – it’s surprising that the creative team has managed to hit some high notes already. But as we’re reminded time and again, success in television is often predicated on its ability to adapt and evolve.

For now, Ted Lasso’s second act remains a mixed bag. While there are clear signs of improvement, it’s unclear whether the show can sustain this momentum or will fall back into its earlier patterns. As we continue to watch Season 4 unfold, one thing is certain: only time will tell if this revival will prove worthy of the original series.

Ultimately, the question remains – will Ted Lasso be able to defy expectations and rise above its predecessors, or will it succumb to the same pitfalls that plagued its first season?