The "Ted Lasso" way is comforting – and a counter to the hollow nationalism Americans have embraced

The comforting escapism of "Ted Lasso" is a balm for our frazzled nerves in these tumultuous times. The comedy's gentle humor and optimism have resonated deeply with audiences, who are seeking solace from the harsh realities of the world around them. Created by Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt, this series reminds us that being the best isn't about dominating others or succeeding at any cost – it's about self-examination, collaboration, and doing right by those we care about.

The character of Ted Lasso is a textbook example of the "ugly American" trope, but one that is slowly peeled away to reveal a complex and vulnerable individual. His optimism is not bravado; it's a genuine expression of his desire to help others become their best selves. This authenticity makes him a compelling figure, and his humility in the face of criticism only adds to his charm.

The series' portrayal of the underdog AFC Richmond football team as they navigate the treacherous waters of English Premier League soccer is expertly woven into this larger narrative of personal growth and transformation. Through Ted's efforts, the players begin to see themselves and their teammates in a new light, and the team comes together in a way that transcends their individual flaws.

One of the most striking aspects of "Ted Lasso" is its refusal to pander to our basest desires for spectacle or controversy. The humor may be lighthearted and playful, but it's never at the expense of substance. The show tackles complex themes like racism, sexism, and classism with sensitivity and nuance, refusing to offer easy answers or simplistic solutions.

In an era where American exceptionalism has become a toxic ideology, "Ted Lasso" offers a refreshing alternative – one that emphasizes empathy, kindness, and self-awareness over hubris and aggression. The show's central message – that we're all capable of doing better by doing right by others – is more relevant now than ever.

Ultimately, "Ted Lasso" is a series about finding comfort in the familiar, but also pushing ourselves to be better versions of ourselves. It's an end-of-year refueling for our spirits, and one that will leave you feeling brighter, wiser, and more compassionate.

OMG I just binged this show with my friends and we're all obsessed the main character Ted is so relatable, like who hasn't felt a little "ugly" at some point? but he's just so genuine and nice. And can we talk about how great the supporting characters are too? I love how the show tackles tough topics without being preachy or anything. It's like, totally realistic that real life isn't always easy, but we can still try to be our best selves. I'm definitely gonna be inspired to be more empathetic and stuff what do you guys think of the show?

I'm not sold on this "Ted Lasso" hype . I mean, the guy is a rich American football coach who gets hired by an English Premier League team, but somehow his sappy optimism and willingness to listen make everyone around him magically better? Yeah right! It feels like a formula that's been tried before and overplayed in TV comedies.

Don't get me wrong, Jason Sudeikis is hilarious, and Brendan Hunt is great as the dry-witted sidekick. But the show's message of "empathy, kindness, and self-awareness" sounds way too good to be true . I mean, have you seen the ratings for the Premier League? It's a bunch of overpaid athletes kicking a ball around while their owners and sponsors get rich off the side .

The show's also got that "ugly American" trope wrapped up with a bow, which feels like a lazy way to avoid exploring real issues. And don't even get me started on the lack of nuance in the show's portrayal of racism, sexism, and classism . It's all just waved away by Ted's endless charm and charisma.

Give me something that'll actually make me think about the world we live in, you know? Not just some feel-good, comfy-belly laughs .

I'm so done with all the seriousness in life rn I mean, don't get me wrong, it's great to talk about important issues and all but can we just take a breather for once? Like, Ted Lasso is literally the opposite of everything that's going on in the world right now – he's all about being humble, empathetic and working together as a team . It's so refreshing to watch someone who genuinely cares about others and isn't all about winning at any cost. The show does tackle some tough issues but it's done in a way that feels thoughtful and respectful, not just superficial or exploitative . I think what I love most about it is how it makes you feel – it's like a warm hug for your soul . Can we all just be a little more like Ted Lasso for a sec?

I gotta say, this Ted Lasso guy is a breath of fresh air . Not just 'cause he's all optimism and sunshine , but 'cause he's got substance too . The way he tackles tough topics like racism and sexism without shying away from 'em is really admirable . And let's be real, who wouldn't want a team of misfits coming together to achieve greatness? It's all about empathy and kindness over ego and aggression . Can we get more of this in our daily lives, tho?

I'm so obsessed with Ted Lasso ! The show is literally my therapy, you know? I mean, who wouldn't want to watch a football coach from the States bring positivity and kindness to the English Premier League? It's like he's showing us all how it's done. And I love how the show doesn't shy away from tough issues, but tackles them with such sensitivity. Like, they're not afraid to talk about racism, sexism, and classism – it's so refreshing! I've also gotta say, the way Ted Lasso is portrayed as a complex and vulnerable person, rather than just a one-dimensional "ugly American" character, is amazing. It's like we're seeing a real person, flaws and all.

"The best way to predict your future is to create it" - Abraham Lincoln

I'm low-key obsessed with "Ted Lasso" This show is like a warm hug for your soul – it knows exactly when to make you laugh, cry, or feel all the feels in between The way Ted's optimism slowly peels away to reveal his complexities is so beautifully done And can we talk about how refreshing it is that they tackle tough themes like racism and sexism with such sensitivity and nuance? It's not always easy, but it's always real The show reminds us that being the best isn't about being perfect – it's about doing right by others and growing together as people

I gotta say , I'm loving how "Ted Lasso" is bringing some much-needed positivity into people's lives right now. But let me correct you, it's not just about the main character being a lovable, goofy guy from America . It's actually really clever how the show balances his humor with deeper themes like racism and classism .

I also think it's cool how they're tackling these tough topics in a way that's approachable for everyone. I mean, let's be real, the EPL is still one of the most competitive leagues in the world ️, but the show doesn't shy away from exploring its complexities. And yeah, Ted Lasso's optimism might seem cheesy at first, but it's actually a really nuanced and relatable portrayal of someone who's trying to make a difference .

And can we talk about how awesome it is that the show is all about collaboration and self-examination? It's not just about individual success or winning at all costs – it's about working together towards a common goal .

People don't care how many times you hit 'em in the head with a baseball bat if they can't get out from under it! - Yogi Berra Just kidding sorta about that one, AFC Richmond does suck... just kidding again! But seriously, Ted Lasso really shows us that teamwork and being true to ourselves is way more powerful than trying to be the best at all costs. I mean who doesn't need a reminder of that in these wild times?

I gotta say , I'm not sold on this "Ted Lasso" hype . I mean, the guy's a total fish-out-of-water in England, but instead of being cringeworthy, it's just seen as charming? How about when his American ways start to clash with British culture and sensibilities? Don't get me wrong, I love a good underdog story, but this one feels too easy-peasy. And what's up with all the positivity vibes? Sometimes things aren't that simple, you know? The show's trying to sell us on some feel-good formulaic stuff, but can it really tackle those deeper issues without getting watered down?

I think the show is way too preachy . Ted Lasso comes across as a try-hard "feel-good" character who's always spouting off about self-improvement and togetherness. It's like he's trying to guilt trip us into being better people or something . And don't even get me started on the lack of real conflict – the team always magically comes together in the end, no drama or tension whatsoever . The humor is cute, I'll give it that, but it feels forced and artificial at times . Overall, I'm just not buying the whole "Ted Lasso" vibe

idk if i'd watch a show just cuz it's "comforting" lol what's with the term anyway? is it like a mental health thing now like, we need this much comfort in our lives? i'm all about that feel good vibes tho but like, can't they just make something funny without all the deep stuff too? like, is it too much to ask for just a silly sitcom where no one dies or anything

omg i just binge watched ted lasso and i gotta say its like the most wholesome thing ive seen all year! the humor is so dry but in a good way and the characters are all so lovable its hard not to root for ted lol his optimism is super inspiring and idk if im crying or laughing every episode what i love about this show too is how it tackles tough topics like racism and sexism with such sensitivity its not preachy at all, jason sudeikis did an amazing job of making the characters complex and relatable

I think what really resonates with people about "Ted Lasso" is how it presents a hero who isn't just a perfect, macho figure , but someone who's genuinely vulnerable and willing to learn from others. His optimism isn't this forced, cheesy thing, but more like a deep-seated desire to make a positive impact. And I love how the show tackles tough issues like racism and sexism, but does it in a way that's still super funny and entertaining . It's like they're saying, "Hey, we get it's not always easy to talk about these things, but let's do it with some humor and heart instead of just anger or frustration." The AFC Richmond team is also a great example of how even the underdog can come together and achieve greatness when everyone works towards a common goal . Overall, I think "Ted Lasso" is like a big ol' hug for our frazzled nerves .

I mean, I get why people love Ted Lasso - he's like the ultimate nice guy . But is he really a hero? Like, what if we take away his charm factor and look at him as a character? He's got some major privilege going on, being an American in charge of a British football team... doesn't that raise some red flags? And don't even get me started on the whole "fixing" the underdog team thing - sounds like some lazy plot device to me . I'm all for a good underdog story, but can we be more nuanced about this stuff?

I'm loving this show ! I think it's so refreshing to see a comedy that doesn't rely on shock value or controversy. The way Ted Lasso approaches problems with empathy and kindness is really inspiring . And can we talk about how much I love the characters? They're all so well-developed and relatable, especially Jamie Tartt . But what really gets me is the show's refusal to offer easy answers or simplistic solutions. It's like, yeah, life is complicated, but that's okay . We can still find ways to be better versions of ourselves and make a positive impact on those around us. I'm all about that self-examination, collaboration vibe .

I'm telling ya, have you noticed how all those football matches are being rigged? Like, what's the real reason AFC Richmond is winning all these games? It's not just about their skills, it's about Ted Lasso's secret influence on the referees! And don't even get me started on the 'ugly American' trope - I'm convinced Jason Sudeikis is a CIA operative using comedy to gather intel on British Premier League soccer players. The way they tackle racism and sexism in the show is super suspicious, if you ask me... like, what's really going on behind those closed doors?

I'm so glad this show exists! It's like a warm hug for your soul . The way it tackles tough topics with empathy and nuance is just amazing. And Ted Lasso himself? He's the ultimate anti-hero - all charm and humility at the same time . What I love most about this show is that it makes you feel good without being cheesy or over-the-top. It's like a big ol' plate of comfort food for your emotions .

omg I know what u mean 'Ted Lasso' is literally my go-to show when I'm having a bad day the main character Ted is so relatable, he's like us but better and Brendan Hunt is genius for making him so lovable yet flawed his optimism might be cheesy at times but it's also super infectious AFC Richmond is more than just a football team, they're a family and the way Ted brings them together with his coach vibes is pure magic what I love most about this show is that it tackles real issues like racism, sexism, and classism without being preachy or condescending it's like Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt are having a conversation with us directly