Major character developments and unresolved plotlines leave fans eager for more from AFC Richmond
Category: Arts & Culture
The season four finale of Apple TV’s acclaimed series *Ted Lasso*, titled "Being Alive," delivers a mix of emotional farewells and new beginnings, leaving viewers speculating about the future of the beloved characters. The episode, which aired on October 7, 2026, features Roy Kent’s (Brett Goldstein) decision to accept the head coach position at Chelsea, marking a major turning point for AFC Richmond.
The episode opens with a poignant celebration of life for Mae (Annette Badland), the owner of the Crown & Anchor pub, who passed away unexpectedly earlier in the season. This moment of mourning sets a somber tone as the characters grapple with loss, particularly as they prepare for the Lady Greyhounds' final game of the season. Ted’s son, Henry (Grant Feely), asks Ted about his father’s death, prompting Ted to initially lie but later reveal the truth off-screen—that his father died by suicide. This moment adds depth to Ted's character, who has spent much of the season guiding others with heartfelt advice.
Roy Kent's acceptance of the Chelsea job comes as he anticipates becoming a father with Keeley (Juno Temple). His decision, though fraught with anxiety about being a bad dad, highlights his growth throughout the series. In a heartfelt scene, he confides in Ted, Beard (Brendan Hunt), Higgins (Jeremy Swift), Nate (Nick Mohammed), and Alice (Tanya Reynolds) about Keeley’s pregnancy and his fears. This moment resonates with viewers, showing Roy's vulnerability as he prepares to leave Richmond.
As Roy cleans out his office, he discovers a note from Ted promising that he will be a great dad, alongside one of Ted’s little green Army men. This gesture captures the supportive friendship between the two characters, emphasizing the themes of camaraderie and personal growth that have been central to the series.
Meanwhile, Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham) is devastated by Roy’s departure but finds clarity through Mae’s death, prompting her to propose to her boyfriend Matthijs (Matteo van der Grijn). This personal development reflects the show's exploration of life’s unpredictability and the importance of seizing opportunities.
As the episode progresses, it becomes evident that changes are afoot at AFC Richmond. With Roy leaving, speculation arises about who will take over as the men’s team manager. Ted, who has been managing the women’s team this season, hints at his interest in the newly opened position during a visit to Rebecca’s office. He arrives with his famous biscuits, symbolizing his continued connection to the club and its people.
Though Ted does not explicitly state his desire to replace Roy, the implication is clear, setting the stage for potential narrative developments in a fifth season. Meanwhile, Nate’s character, who previously managed Richmond before moving to West Ham, is now coaching the Polish national team, complicating the managerial picture.
As the finale wraps up, Alice receives a promotion to head coach of the Lady Greyhounds, marking a triumphant moment for her character after a season of hard work and emotional growth. This development suggests a focus on her struggles as a new coach, which could provide a rich storyline in future episodes.
As of now, Apple TV has yet to confirm a fifth season of *Ted Lasso*, but the show remains one of its most popular offerings. The finale leaves several plot threads open, including Alice’s coaching challenges, Roy’s transition into fatherhood and a new role at Chelsea, and Rebecca’s upcoming wedding. The potential for these storylines to evolve suggests that fans may not have seen the last of AFC Richmond.
Jason Sudeikis, who plays Ted Lasso, has previously hinted at a three-season arc for the show, which could mean that the story is far from over. In a cover story for *The Hollywood Reporter*, he mentioned plans for a new chapter that would mirror the structure of the previous seasons, potentially allowing for a continued exploration of both the men’s and women’s teams.
Apple TV's executive Matt Cherniss has also expressed optimism about the show's future, indicating that the team is eager to jump into the next season soon. The series' cast members have hinted at the possibility of more stories, with Tanya Reynolds (who plays Alice) noting that the ending of season four felt like the beginning of something new.
As the dust settles from the finale, fans are left to ponder the implications of these character arcs and the potential for future seasons. Will Ted return to manage the men’s team? How will Roy navigate his new role at Chelsea? And what challenges await Alice as she steps into her new position? With unresolved storylines and a strong fan base, the anticipation for *Ted Lasso* season five continues to build.