Ted Lasso season 3's ending felt like a series finale, Apple TV+, as well as those involved in the series, left hope alive for season 4.

It took some time, but star/co-creator Ted Lasso season 4's story will begin in Kansas before shifting back to the UK, hinting at what's in store for the show's return.

Ted Lasso Season 4 Was Inevitable, But It Hurts Season 3's "Ending"

The Season 4 Renewal Isn't Much Of A Surprise

Seeing as Ted Lasso has been a massive hit for Apple TV+ since it debuted in 2020, it's not very surprising that the sports comedy is coming back for season 4. While the reception surrounding Ted Lasso season 3 collapsed compared to previous seasons, the show was a major success for the streamer. During its first three seasons, Ted Lasso garnered 11 Emmy Awards and broke Apple TV+ viewership records. That said, Ted Lasso's return will undoubtedly hurt season 3's conclusion considering how much it felt like the series finale.

In addition to Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, and Jeremy Swift are expected to return for Ted Lasso season 4. Juno Temple is also in discussion to reprise her role.

With an unclear future and no official renewal, many viewers went into Ted Lasso season 3's finale episode like it was the end. The episode itself was titled "So Long, Farewell" and played out as if this would be the end for Ted, Rebecca, and the rest of the AFC Richmond crew. Whereas season 3 ended with Ted going back to his family in the US, Rebecca had shifted focus to developing a women's team, while Beard, Roy, and Nate prepared to lead the team without Ted. Still, Apple TV+ wouldn't it if the show ended for good.

Why Ted Lasso Season 4 Should Conclude The Apple TV+ Show

The Show Must Avoid Hurting Its Legacy By Overstaying Its Welcome

Now, Ted is heading right back to AFC Richmond to coach the teased women's team, erasing some of the significance of his decision to leave his previous gig to be there for his son back home. Ted Lasso season 4 actually happening will now have some wondering what's to come beyond that for the show. Rather than the constant "the show might return" discussions that happened after season 3, Ted Lasso season 4 should be treated as the real ending, giving all characters a satisfying sendoff. The approach would also give the show (and its fans) time to prepare to say goodbye.

There's no doubt Ted Lasso season 3 was in a tough spot. Some felt the pacing was off, rushing storylines in case it was the conclusion of the series. Perhaps Apple TV+ greenlit season 4 to give the story a proper ending since season 3 didn't fully stick its landing. Whatever the case, Ted Lasso season 4 is tasked with backtracking a bit, but it still has potential. The hope, however, is that one of Apple TV+'s best shows doesn't overstay its welcome, leaning into quality over quantity, even if that means the show's return is brief.