Ted Lasso S2 Ep1: It’s good to be back

The ray of sunshine that is Ted Lasso has returned to our lives with the start of season two for the renowned Apple TV show, and I have what to say about it.

So, without further ado, here are some of my thoughts. Also, spoilers if you haven’t watched the first episode of Season 2 of Ted Lasso.

Biggest takeaway: Do I detect a hint of jealousy from Coach Lasso?

Ted Lasso has never been shy to offer words of encouragement to those who need it. That’s kind of his entire M.O. as a person, which bleeds into his M.O. as a coach.

Not exactly the most strategic Xs and Os tactician from the sidelines, even in the sport he’s most comfortable with back home (American football). But someone who can and often does offer the type of motivation and pick-me-up that sends a jolt through your body whenever it's needed.

That’s been his thing, but what happens when his skill-set is no longer required in the capacity he’s grown accustomed to?

Many of AFC Richmond’s players appear more willing to converse with the newly hired sports psychologist, Dr. Sharon Fieldstone than they ever did with their head coach. Ted’s noticed, and the typically cheerful spirit doesn’t seem super jazzed about it, even if it looks like a positive step in ending Richmond’s streak of ties.

Ted isn’t exactly the person to get into disputes with others. The one time I thought he might was when Rebecca came clean about why she hired him. But, he took the high road and put it past them.

The interesting part about this situation is A. It’s a one-sided beef unknown to the other side (Dr. Fieldstone). And B. There’s nothing inherently beefy worth starting anything about. It’s Ted’s ego that is stirring up a potential conflict of sorts.

I don’t know what that kind of friction would look like for a man as continuously positive as Ted Lasso. But I do know that jealousy is a color that doesn’t look good on anyone.

A clash between the two forces has the potential to take this show where it has yet to go: A place where maybe Ted Lasso’s likeability takes a hit.

Thoughts on a character: Rebecca Welton