Ted Lasso’s Finale Perfectly Tied Up All Loose Ends

Ted Lasso Finale: A Perfect Ending for a Charming Tale.

“Ted Lasso,” the heartwarming comedy series on Apple TV+, has officially wrapped its third season. The question on everyone’s mind was whether this season finale would also serve as the series finale. Despite the sense of conclusion that permeated the final episode titled “So Long, Farewell,” the show could very well carry on with or without Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis), who decided to move back to Kansas to be with his family.

The episode kicks off with Ted already anticipating his return to his son Henry (Gus Turner), as they exchange humorous gifs. Meanwhile, in Rebecca’s (Hannah Waddingham) office, discussions about Ted’s replacement and the potential sale of the club are ongoing. Leslie (Jeremy Swift), who advocated selling 49% of Richmond to maintain control while raising necessary funds, estimates the club’s worth at a staggering $2 billion.

MORE: This Ted Lasso Character Was Inspired by Jason Sudeikis’ Girfriend Keeley Hazell

News of Ted’s departure is the talk of London, culminating in a rendition of “So Long, Farewell” from The Sound of Music by the AFC Richmond team during his final practice. Nate (Nick Mohammed), former assistant coach, is adjusting to his return to the team headquarters and navigating changed dynamics. A touching moment unfolds when Roy (Brett Goldstein) praises Jamie (Phil Dunster) over beers for his hard work throughout the season.

During a meeting with Ted in the empty stands of the AFC Richmond stadium, Rebecca brings up two potential futures: selling the club or both of them staying. Despite her financial offer that would make him one of the highest-paid coaches in the league, she knows it doesn’t matter; Ted has already made up his mind.

Ted and Nate patch things up in another heartfelt locker room scene, marking Nate’s long-awaited redemption. Meanwhile, AFC Richmond prepares for a game against West Ham. After an emotional first half trailing 0-2, Ted motivates the team during half-time with his final speech as their manager.

The rest of the match is filled with thrilling moments, including the game-winning goal executed perfectly from Nate’s strategic play in Season 1. Ted leaves for Kansas soon after this triumphant victory, not before he spots a headline announcing “Richmond For All! Welton sells 49% of the Club to Fans.”

Other notable events include Beard’s (Brendan Hunt) decision to stay in London with his girlfriend Jane (Phoebe Walsh), Rebecca’s chance meeting with a pilot whose houseboat she stayed on in Amsterdam, and Roy Kent’s appointment as AFC Richmond’s new manager. A proposed AFC Richmond Women’s Team, Rebecca’s new romance, and Nate’s blissful moments with his girlfriend Jade (Edyta Budnik) further hint at future possibilities.

However, the most heartwarming moment arrives when Ted reaches Kansas and reunites with his son Henry. Coaching Henry on the soccer field while Michelle (Andrea Anders) watches, Ted looks utterly content.

As a viewer and a football enthusiast, I think the finale was the best possible ending one could write. Yes, winning the title would have been cliché. But securing a Champions League spot for a club like Richmond, as portrayed, is magical. Roy becoming the manager was a fitting ending for his character arc. And the way they tied in the Champions League to give Rebecca a proper ending to her arc was genius writing.

The finale wasn’t perfect, but it was a wonderful ending to the series. The story could certainly continue, but even if it doesn’t, it concluded beautifully. In Ted’s own words, “Just listen to your gut, and on the way down to your gut, check in with your heart. Between those two things, they’ll let you know what’s what.”

The finale was reflective of the series as a whole – full of heart, humor, and charm. A masterstroke of character development and storytelling, it tied up loose ends without feeling rushed or contrived. The narrative arc of every character was wrapped up satisfyingly, creating a sense of closure while leaving the door open for potential future developments.

Ted Lasso’s influence extended beyond the world of AFC Richmond, resonating with viewers globally. The show and its endearing protagonist provided a beacon of hope and positivity during challenging times. Though it’s hard to bid farewell to such an uplifting character, watching him achieve his well-deserved victory was a joy.

The twist of Rebecca selling 49% of the club to the fans exemplified her character’s growth and was a masterful touch. It turned the club into a symbol of community ownership and fan power, providing a creative solution to her initial dilemma.

The proposition of launching an AFC Richmond Women’s Team was another unexpected yet fitting development. It hinted at a potential spinoff, and considering the charm and appeal of “Ted Lasso,” it’s a concept that could definitely hit the back of the net.

From Roy Kent taking over as the new manager of Richmond to Beard’s surprise wedding at Stonehenge, the finale was packed with surprises, laughs, and tears. Even minor characters were given their moments, such as Colin (Billy Harris) publicly embracing his boyfriend, a small yet poignant statement about love and acceptance.

As Sudeikis noted, this was the end of the story they wanted to tell. The season ended with a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and personal growth that “Ted Lasso” exemplified. The narrative could carry on, but if it doesn’t, viewers can find solace in the fact that it was a tale well told, ending on the perfect note.