It’s been an emotional return for Ted Lasso on Apple TV. It’s been a different kind of season for AFC Richmond and for our stars. But it’s been a beautiful time that has featured a number of interesting moments and storylines. Now, it’s all coming to an end. That’s especially true for one of our regulars in this week’s finale, “Being Alive.”
Honoring Mae
At the end of last week, it was clear someone passed away in the midst of the Lady Greyhounds triumph. It wasn’t completely clear who, but many suspected it was Mae (Annette Badland), the feisty pub owner and women’s team champion who has been a big part of this season. Early in the finale, we get that confirmed as a wake is held at her pub. It’s a somber occasion as Ted (Jason Sudeikis), Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham), and the rest of the team bid farewell.
It’s also a moment that leaves Henry (Grant Feely) struggling with big thoughts and feelings. He wonders what is going to happen with the pub. He wonders where they’ll live, and Ted has no answer. But Henry is working through grief and loss for someone he knew. And it leads to questions about someone he didn’t—Ted’s father.
The question catches Ted off guard and he shades the truth. But, upon reflection, Ted realizes he needs to be honest. So, by episode’s end, he tells Henry the truth. He also makes a new commitment to be more present for Henry and his big moments.
Team dynamics
There is a lot going on with the Greyhounds, too. They are wrapping up the season, and they spend their final game celebrating and honor Mae. Also, thanks to some great week from Keeley (Juno Temple), they have a sell out to end the season. This team has come a long way. So, too, has coach Alice (Tanya Reynolds). She’s developed into something of a leader.
Which brings Ted back to his big decision. He missed some of Henry’s games due to his duties, and he’s committed to not letting that happen again. So, he turns to Rebecca with a proposal. He hands the top job to Alice, staying on as her assistant. It’s a happy ending for the Lady Greyhounds, but will there be a happy ending for the whole franchise?
We know that Zelda (Tracey Ullman) has made a play to buy up enough shares to own the team. As we come to the shareholders meeting, she announces her move. That leaves Rebecca and Higgins (Jeremy Swift) looking a little stunned. It means that Zelda holds the majority. And while she doesn’t want to change the women’s team, she plans to make her presence felt in the Premier League with the men’s team.
But it turns out, Rebecca wasn’t as in the dark as it seemed. She pulled a quick one to get the Milk Sisters shares, meaning she and Zelda are deadlocked at 49 percent each. That is until Mae’s will is read. Her two percent of the team goes to Rebecca, giving her 51 and allowing her to maintain majority control. Her club is safe, and she ends with what looks like a potentially uneasy partnership with Zelda.
A new beginning
Meanwhile, Keeley and Roy (Brett Goldstein) are dealing with the news that they’re becoming parents. But in the midst of that, and the grief over Mae, Roy gets a call. He’s offered the manager’s job for Chelsea. It’s enough that it causes him to join Keeley in throwing up near the sink. But it puts a lot of pressure on him and his future.
Roy is thinking about his job, but also about his new child. He turns to the Diamond Dogs, who are made whole as Nate (Nick Mohammed) is visiting. There’s also a new addition—coach Alice, who joins as a cat. Roy seeks advice about fatherhood and gets some good nuggets all around. As he mulls his future, he comes to a decision.
He goes to see Rebecca and tells her he’s going to Chelsea. She’s furious at first. After some light yelling, they come to an understanding. It’s a big new chapter for Roy and Keeley, who are building their family and pursuing a dream job.
Final thoughts on the season
I missed Ted Lasso. I would have been satisfied if the season 3 finale was it, but this season has been a delight. It was nice in this episode to see some old, familiar faces as guests. This is about a new story, focusing on some original characters. We saw big steps forward for Roy, Ted, and Rebecca, and I’m excited to see what happens next.
Every season of Ted Lasso is available to stream on Apple TV. Check out our recaps of the whole season right here at Show Snob.
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