When actor Jason Sudeikis first portrayed the Ted Lasso character in an NBC Sports promotional video for the Premier League in 2013, he probably did not know what would follow.
Four years since the release of the first episode of the comedy-drama series Ted Lasso in 2020, the show has everyone hooked with its infectious humour and enthralling storyline.
It garnered critical acclaim, earning 61 Primetime Emmy nominations and winning 11. Ted Lasso has also won two Golden Globe Awards and three Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Fans have been speculating about whether the beloved Apple TV+ show would return for a fourth season, with many people pessimistic about the chances.
However, they could be smiling soon with a few pieces of the puzzle falling into place for a much-anticipated season four.
A Highly-Anticipated Return
Since the last episode of season three aired in May 2023, there has been plenty of speculation about whether the show would be renewed for another season.
Creator and star Sudeikis had envisioned the show running for only three seasons, but the finale left open the door for more, leading fans to believe another season is coming.
Warner Bros has made concrete moves to get production back on track, picking up contract options for cast members Hannah Waddingham (Rebecca Walton), Brett Goldstein (Roy Kent) and Jeremy Swift (Leslie Higgins).
Sudeikis plays the title character and has been the driving force of the show with his eternally optimistic, fish-out-of-water portrayal of an American football coach in England.
His naivete is gut-wrenching, but his performance is so commanding that the audience cannot help but be enthralled.
There was never a plan beyond the three-year arc, but the overwhelming demand from fans and the critical reception of each season has forced powerful hands in Hollywood to act.
Reports claim production for the new season could begin as early as 2025, depending on budget approvals and scheduling.
Some cast members are already on board while negotiations are ongoing for the others, including Sudeikis, whom many people feared would leave the show.
Warner Bros has included new writers and reopened the writers’ room, which is a sign that the creative team is working to craft new stories that will hopefully live up to the standards of the first three seasons.
How Ted Lasso Became a Global Phenomenon
Ted Lasso immediately warmed its way into the hearts of fans in the United Kingdom and United States, which was unsurprising considering the storyline.
It also became watched and appreciated all across the globe, charming millions of people. For example, Ted Lasso has a massive fanbase in New Zealand.
That point was evidenced when Goldstein starred in a marketing campaign for Les Mills, a New Zealand-founded fitness company.
The advertisement was filmed in New Zealand, which gives it an air of originality. It shows the country’s breathtaking landscapes while promoting a healthier and happier approach to fitness.
In the advertisement, Goldstein goes from a gritty and gruelling intense workout to a more joyful and scenic session in New Zealand – an ode to the show’s message that positivity and joy can be found in the most unexpected places.
Ted Lasso’s influence and impact in New Zealand have gone beyond commercials, with the show generating massive interest in football among Kiwi sports fans.
Consequently, sports streaming giants DAZN has acquired exclusive broadcast rights to UEFA club competitions, much to the delight of New Zealanders.
This deal would never have happened without the rising interest in football in the country. DAZN will bring the best of European football – Champions League, Europa League and Conference League – to cater to the growing Kiwi audience.
More football interest in New Zealand will trigger an increase sports betting across the country. The new enthusiasm for football has many Kiwis exploring betting platforms.
Kiwis looking to test their knowledge of the beautiful game will turn to reliable resources such as bettingtop10.co.nz to find the best sportsbooks and odds.
Ted Lasso’s creators probably never thought they would convert New Zealand into a football haven, but such has been its influence.
The series is connecting people across cultures and sparking unexpected passions, and the odds point to season four building on the legacy it has already established.