Since its debut on Apple TV+, Ted Lasso has generated waves of enthusiasm, earning the title of one of the best comedy series in recent times. Initially, I wasn't particularly drawn to the show—my lack of interest in soccer and a hesitance to subscribe to yet another streaming service kept me from watching.

However, a recent purchase of a MacBook came with a free three-month subscription to Apple TV+, and curiosity got the better of me. When I finally clicked play on Ted Lasso, I quickly regretted not watching it sooner.

In case you're unfamiliar, Ted Lasso follows the journey of an American football coach, Ted Lasso, played by Jason Sudeikis, who is hired to lead the struggling English Premier League soccer team, AFC Richmond.

With talks of a new season on the way, despite having previously been announced to have been finished, the show has garnered a dedicated fan base and sparked meaningful conversations. But what truly makes Ted Lasso an amazing show? Here are my observations from binge-watching the first three seasons.

Authenticity

One of the standout features of Ted Lasso is its authenticity. The show realistically portrays the life of a newcomer adapting to a foreign culture, capturing Ted's struggles to understand British customs and soccer jargon. The characters are depicted as flawed yet complex individuals, making them relatable and endearing. This genuine depiction drew me in and kept me hooked from the very first episode.

Optimism

While some might argue that optimism can be misleading, Ted Lasso offers a refreshing take on this quality. Ted’s infectious optimism shines through as he consistently seeks to bring out the best in those around him—whether they are players, staff, or simply those he interacts with. Unlike typical portrayals of blind positivity, Lasso's brand of optimism is rooted in reality, making it one of the many reasons the show resonates deeply.

For an uninterrupted viewing experience, I suggest you ensure your internet connection is up to speed—trust me, you won't want to miss a moment.

Dry Humor

The subtlety of dry humor permeates Ted Lasso, creating a tone that either resonates with viewers or falls flat. As a fan of understated wit, I found myself laughing deeply at the clever wordplay, witty banter, and perfectly timed one-liners, notably from character Roy Kent. The skillful execution of this humor provides comedic relief and a keen sense of timing that elevated each episode.

Character Development

Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of Ted Lasso is the character development over the seasons. The show doesn’t rush the transformation of its characters; instead, it showcases their journeys and the personal growth that arises from their struggles. Jamie Tartt, Roy Kent, and Rebecca Wilson are just a few examples of individuals who evolve beautifully thanks to the influence of Ted Lasso. Though he appears naïve and carefree, it's enlightening to see how Ted's small gestures ignite significant transformations in those around him.

Final Thoughts

As Ted Lasso concluded its latest season, I’ve gained invaluable insights from its portrayal of leadership, empathy, and the power of positivity. Critics might argue that the show lost some of its initial spark from season one to three, but I would disagree. The pivot from Ted’s individual journey to a broader exploration of the characters around him illustrates the profound impact that one person can have on others, even while facing personal challenges.

Despite my usual preference for different genres, the buzz surrounding Ted Lasso compelled me to tune in, and I can confidently say it was a worthwhile decision. I leave every episode feeling uplifted, taking away essential lessons about leadership and the importance of caring for those around us. As the show beautifully reminds us, when you care about people and have love in your heart, transcending life’s hurdles together becomes an achievable goal. If you haven't yet experienced the charm of Ted Lasso, now might be the perfect time to start.