TED LASSO Season Finale Review: ‘The Hope that Kills You’

Hello, TED LASSO fans!

It’s been a pleasure to write about this show over the past few episodes (especially knowing there will be a season 2). Last week I mentioned how season finales are often used to set up plots or conflicts for the next season, and the writers did a nice job of that here with the finale, “The Hope that Kills You.”

I really liked that title and how it was applied to several characters. Last week’s episode was about taking a look in the mirror and being true to reality: Rebecca came clean with Ted and Higgins, Roy accepted his position on the bench squad, and Ted acknowledged that wanting to win (and save the team from relegation) isn’t the worst thing in the world. How did it end up? Well, read on! Read more

TED LASSO Review: ‘All Apologies’

Hello, TED LASSO fans!

Those of us who love and watch serial TV shows know that the penultimate episode is often the one to wrap up many storylines of any given season. It’s meant to allow a season finale to set up the next season or series with good cliffhangers or open questions.

This episode, “All Apologies,” was no different, and the writers took the time to deftly bring several storylines forward and to close with enough room to continue growing toward next season. Rupert drives Rebecca to a breaking point in her inner conflict of personal morals against desire for revenge. Roy starts coming to terms with an end to his starting spot on the team, and Ted learns that as much as he wants to focus on building character in his players, it’s important to respect the investment they & the coaches have made and focus on winning.

Bonus—any episode that name-drops Willie Nelson, praises Alfonso Ribeiro/The Carlton and disses the Westboro Baptist Church is a hit in my book.

Let’s talk it over! Read more

TED LASSO Review: ‘Diamond Dogs’

Hello, TED LASSO fans!

Do you think I could make an appointment with the Diamond Dogs to go over my personal life? I mean this sincerely…round these guys up for advice-giving & confidence boosting! I’m in!

As an English major, I’m also loving all of the literary references thrown in. From “A Wrinkle in Time” to Walt Whitman in this episode, the show continues to assume intelligence from the audience in that way. So, congrats to those of us in the cross section of lit majors who stan British accents, fans of comedy, and lovers of great character development!

The theme of this episode is that to win in life, you must be true to yourself and be willing to take a chance, whether in romance, friendship, or work. It moved storylines forward for many characters, and I felt personally inspired along the way. Can’t ask for much more in a 30-minute episode. Read more