When Does Ted Lasso Get Good?
Fans of Ted Lasso discuss that they were hooked after the first episode. The feel-good show captured hearts immediately with a strong run through the first two seasons, with a dip in quality in the third (agreed upon by both by fans and critics). That being said, the three-season length of the series feels accessible for anyone who enjoys the early episodes.
What Fans Say:
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Fans love Ted Lasso for its refreshing optimism and warmth, describing it as the “show we need right now.” Many viewers appreciate the depth of the characters, who evolve beyond initial stereotypes to reveal complexities, vulnerabilities, and moments of personal triumph. Ted’s positive attitude, while often tested, is a highlight for fans who value how the show handles sensitive topics like mental health and masculinity without falling into clichés. The humor, sincerity, and heartwarming moments make it feel like a comfort show, and its emphasis on kindness and resilience resonates deeply with fans.
What Haters Say:
Some detractors of Ted Lasso feel that the show’s optimism can come across as unrealistic or overly sentimental. Critics argue that certain plotlines or character arcs may feel predictable, leaning into “feel-good” moments at the expense of realistic character development. There are also viewers who find the show’s pacing slower in later seasons, with some episodes seeming to prioritize character moments over advancing the plot. Additionally, some critics note that the fish-out-of-water dynamic, while charming initially, loses impact as Ted grows more accustomed to British culture, occasionally causing the humor to feel repetitive.
Does Ted Lasso Fall Off in Quality at Any Point?
While Ted Lasso has been generally well-received across its seasons, some fans and critics note a slight dip in pacing and narrative tension in the third season. As the storyline expands and explores deeper topics like personal relationships, mental health, and redemption arcs for various characters, some fans feel the show takes on too much, which can make the storylines feel crowded or dispersed. However, the series continues to receive praise for its emotional resonance and character growth, maintaining a strong following despite these critiques. For many, any shift in tone is seen as a natural evolution rather than a drop in quality.
Aggregated Critic Commentary:
| Season | Rotten Tomatoes Score | IMDb Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 92% | 8.7 |
| 2 | 97% | 8.6 |
| 3 | 80% | 8.3 |
Each season of Ted Lasso received generally positive reviews, with Seasons 1 and 2 standing out for critical acclaim. Season 3 saw a slight dip in ratings, although it still maintained a high IMDb average score due to sustained viewer enjoyment. Rotten Tomatoes scores reflect similar trends, especially noting the show’s strong debut and slightly more mixed reception for the final season as the storyline expanded and took creative risks.
Critics have generally lauded Ted Lasso as a groundbreaking series that challenges traditional television norms by centering kindness and positivity. The show’s writing and Sudeikis’s performance have earned widespread acclaim, winning numerous awards and reshaping how modern comedies approach character development and thematic exploration. Critics praise its approach to mental health and masculinity, emphasizing how the show encourages vulnerability in male characters, a rarity in many mainstream series. Some critics argue that the later seasons may lean too heavily on sentimentality, but most agree that Ted Lasso remains unique in its optimistic outlook and narrative depth.
Overview of Ted Lasso:
Ted Lasso is a heartfelt sports-comedy series developed by Jason Sudeikis, Bill Lawrence, Joe Kelly, and Brendan Hunt, premiering on Apple TV+ in 2020. The show follows Ted Lasso (Sudeikis), an optimistic, small-time college football coach from Kansas, who is recruited to coach AFC Richmond, a struggling British soccer team. The twist? Ted has no experience with soccer, but he brings his unwavering positivity, people skills, and quirky charm to the job. Created in a world where kindness, empathy, and resilience are at the core, Ted Lasso has struck a chord with viewers for its warmth, humor, and emotional depth.
The series tackles themes like personal growth, teamwork, and mental health with a comedic touch, all while capturing the complexities of human relationships. Its unique blend of comedy and drama makes it more than a standard sports show, offering heartfelt stories and resonant moments that explore vulnerability and leadership. Through Ted’s journey, the series portrays a man struggling to keep his cheerful demeanor while dealing with his own personal challenges and the skepticism of his new team and the English public. By focusing on compassion and connection, Ted Lasso challenges the norms of modern television, offering a fresh take on the “fish out of water” narrative with a series that feels hopeful, endearing, and relatable.
Season-by-Season Highlights:
Season 1:
Season 1 introduces viewers to Ted Lasso, a perpetually cheerful and sincere American football coach hired by Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham) to coach her struggling soccer team. The season focuses on Ted’s uphill battle to win over the skeptical British press, the cynical players, and the complex club owner herself. With each episode, Ted’s influence begins to change the team’s culture, bringing out the best in characters like Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein), Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster), and Keeley Jones (Juno Temple). This season establishes the show’s distinct tone, combining humor and emotional vulnerability, and culminates in a nail-biting relegation battle.
Season 2:
In Season 2, Ted Lasso deepens its focus on mental health, as Ted grapples with his own struggles while seeking therapy. The introduction of sports psychologist Dr. Sharon Fieldstone (Sarah Niles) adds a new dimension to the team’s dynamics. This season emphasizes personal growth, with characters like Roy and Jamie evolving significantly. Themes of redemption, forgiveness, and self-discovery take center stage, as does Ted’s own vulnerability. While some fans appreciate this introspective turn, others feel that the show’s pace slows down as it delves into more serious territory, especially in subplots that focus on Ted’s mental health journey.
Season 3:
Season 3 sees Ted Lasso further exploring complex relationships, particularly as AFC Richmond faces higher stakes on the field and Ted faces challenges in his personal life. Character arcs continue to intertwine, revealing new layers of vulnerability and ambition. As Rebecca’s journey for self-empowerment intensifies and Jamie works to prove himself as a team player, the show delves into deeper themes of identity and purpose. Although some viewers feel the season stretches itself by tackling numerous character arcs, it remains grounded in its core message of empathy and growth, creating a satisfying conclusion for many fans.
Similar Shows to Ted Lasso
- Schitt’s Creek – Another series that balances humor with warmth, focusing on personal growth and community.
- Parks and Recreation – Known for its upbeat tone, Parks and Rec offers a similar feel-good vibe and quirky characters.
- The Good Place – Both shows explore moral and ethical questions with a humorous touch.
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine – A workplace comedy with a positive tone and close-knit ensemble cast.
- Mythic Quest – While more tech-focused, it shares a similar blend of humor and complex character dynamics.
If You Liked These, You’ll Like “Ted Lasso”:
- Schitt’s Creek – Like Ted Lasso, it champions kindness and personal growth in a comedic format.
- The Good Place – Its exploration of moral themes and character development echoes Ted Lasso’s depth.
- Parks and Recreation – Fans of earnest, optimistic comedy will appreciate this show’s tone and focus on community.
- Brooklyn Nine-Nine – Its positive, supportive team dynamic and humor make it a natural fit for Ted Lasso fans.