Brené with Jason Sudeikis & Brendan Hunt on Ted Lasso
Oct 7, 2020
52:06
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Join Jason Sudeikis, the co-creator and star of 'Ted Lasso', and Brendan Hunt, the show's co-creator and writer, as they dive into the magic behind the beloved series. They share the show's origin story, emphasizing the importance of kindness and connection in storytelling. Discover how intention fuels creativity and hear about their unique approach to musical elements that enhance emotional impact. Their heartfelt insights on empathy and vulnerability reflect the series' transformative power, making this conversation both entertaining and inspiring.
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Quick takeaways
The podcast emphasizes the importance of intention in the creative process, which shaped the development of the heartfelt series Ted Lasso.
Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt discuss how Ted Lasso's character embodies humility and vulnerability, challenging contemporary hero stereotypes.
The creators highlight the role of music in enhancing emotional connections, using carefully selected songs to deepen viewer engagement with the show.
Deep dives
The Origins of Ted Lasso
The character of Ted Lasso was initially introduced through humorous NBC promos featuring an American football coach hired to manage an English soccer team, despite his lack of soccer knowledge. These promos showcased the character's charm and wit, going viral and successfully drawing viewers to the Premier League. Over time, Ted Lasso evolved into a full television series, reflecting themes of kindness, humor, and heart. The creators aimed to preserve the original charm while expanding on the character's narrative and the dynamics of teamwork in a comedic setting.
Cultural Impact and Reception
Ted Lasso has garnered significant appreciation for its positive portrayal of vulnerability and emotional intelligence, resonating deeply with audiences. Viewers have reported transformative personal experiences, attributing improvements in their relationships and outlooks to the show's uplifting messages. The creators acknowledged feeling both surprised and validated by the show's success and the emotional connection it fostered with fans around the world. They highlighted that themes of joy, possibility, and goodness have contributed to its widespread acclaim.
Character Development and Vulnerability
The show's central character, Ted Lasso, embodies a balance of humility, empathy, and perseverance, making him relatable and inspiring to viewers facing challenges. The dialogue often touches on themes of forgiveness and compassion, illustrating how these traits can positively impact interpersonal relationships. The creators shared insights about Ted’s character development, particularly emphasizing his imperfections and vulnerability as strengths rather than weaknesses. This approach challenges the notion of what a 'hero' looks like in contemporary storytelling.
Influences and Writing Process
The collaborative writing process for Ted Lasso drew from a variety of influences, including the creators' experiences in improv comedy and their time living abroad. The creators cited Amsterdam's cultural ethos, emphasizing acceptance and positivity, as shaping their comedic tone and character dynamics. They strived to infuse authenticity and humor into the character of Ted while addressing relatable struggles and fostering genuine connections. This thoughtfulness has resonated strongly with audiences, enriching the viewing experience beyond traditional sitcom formats.
The Role of Music and Connection
Music plays a crucial role in establishing the emotional landscape of Ted Lasso, with careful selections enhancing key moments throughout the series. The inclusion of songs that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia highlights the creators' intention to create a deeper bond with viewers. The creators shared that they aimed to leave room for spontaneity and creativity while maintaining a consistent tone throughout the show. This focus on thematic consistency and emotional resonance has contributed to Ted Lasso's unique ability to unite audiences across generations.
As the self-appointed president of the TLFC (Ted Lasso Fan Club), it was a blast to talk to Jason Sudeikis, the co-creator, writer, and executive producer who plays Ted Lasso, and Brendan Hunt, the co-creator and writer who plays Coach Beard on the Apple TV+ hit series. The show follows the adventures of a small-time college football coach from Kansas hired to coach a professional soccer team in England, despite having no experience coaching soccer. We talk about the show’s interesting origin story, writers’ room inspirations, and why intention is critical to the creative process. It’s a fun conversation about a show that is unapologetically awkward, brave, and kind.