How "Ted Lasso" became a television phenomenon

The television show "Ted Lasso" evolved from a simple commercial concept into a critically acclaimed comedy, resonating deeply with audiences and earning 61 Emmy nominations across its three seasons. The series centers on an American football coach from Kansas who navigates the world of professional English soccer, despite his lack of knowledge about the sport.

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To play the character was intentional. To play someone that was kindhearted, that didn't swear-- be like Teflon towards people's negativity or-- or-- or sarcasm, 100% intentional.

Jason Sudeikis, who stars as Ted Lasso and co-created the show, intentionally crafted the character to embody positivity and kindness. Sudeikis explained that he aimed to portray someone "kindhearted, that didn't swear-- be like Teflon towards people's negativity or-- or-- or sarcasm." He believed that kindness and positivity possess a transformative power, a sentiment that became central to the show's appeal, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic.

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Yeah. And so can the opposite. But I mean, if you had to choose one at the-- at that point of writing it and wanting to play it, I'd much rather try to view the world, you know, as Ted Lasso.

The show's origins trace back over a decade to NBC Sports' need for a compelling advertising campaign to promote the English Premier League in the United States. Sudeikis, then finishing a long tenure on "Saturday Night Live," was brought in for the project. He found the job enjoyable, particularly with the freedom to collaborate with friends.

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I saw this quote by Walt Whitman, it was painted on the wall there and it said, "Be curious, not judgmental." I like that.

"Ted Lasso" defied expectations, offering a blend of farcical humor and heartfelt wisdom. Sudeikis described the comedy as a "Trojan horse," carrying profound messages within its often lighthearted narrative. He also shared a personal anecdote about a quote attributed to Walt Whitman, "Be curious, not judgmental," which became a significant touchstone for the character, though Sudeikis humorously noted his mother's bible study class might have been the true source of such wisdom.

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My mom's parish-- in the South Side of Chicago, Christ the King, you know, had, like a bible study class.