The Season 3 finale of Apple TV+’s beloved comedy series, Ted Lasso, left fans pondering whether it was also the show’s series finale. Titled “So Long, Farewell,” the episode felt like a series finale in how it tied up loose ends. However, the show could potentially continue, with or without its titular character, Ted (Jason Sudeikis), who made the decision to move back to Kansas and be with his family.
The episode begins with Ted’s excitement as he looks forward to reuniting with his son, Henry, exchanging cute texts and funny gifs. Meanwhile, Rebecca catches up with Keeley and Leslie, discussing Ted’s replacement as coach for AFC Richmond. The trio swiftly changes the subject to Rebecca’s contemplation of selling the club. Leslie suggests a staggering offer of $2 billion for the entire club, leaving everyone shocked.
News of Ted’s departure spreads across London, and AFC Richmond bids him farewell in a heartwarming moment when the team breaks into song and dance during their final practice together. They perform a rendition of “So Long, Farewell” from The Sound of Music, paying tribute to their leader.
Nate finds his place at team headquarters, witnessing Roy and Jamie making plans to hang out, which surprises him. Later, Roy and Jamie share a touching moment over beers, expressing their pride in each other’s growth. However, tensions arise when Roy reveals he and Keeley have been talking again. The competition between Roy and Jamie is reignited, leading them to confront Keeley at her house. Keeley resolves the situation by asking them to leave and sort things out themselves.
Rebecca meets Ted at the AFC Richmond stadium, where she confesses her plan to sell the club. However, she presents Ted with a second option: a lucrative offer that would make him one of the highest-paid coaches in the league. Tearfully, she realizes that none of it matters because Ted has already made his decision.
In a heartfelt scene, Ted and Nate reconcile in the locker room, finally resolving their differences. The team prepares for the crucial match against West Ham, with emotions running high. Although Richmond initially struggles, they manage to equalize and eventually score the winning goal. The team celebrates their victory, and love is in the air as various characters find happiness and connection.
As Ted prepares to leave for Kansas, he crosses paths with Rebecca at the airport. They share a heartfelt goodbye, embracing and shedding tears. Meanwhile, Beard contemplates his future and decides to stay in the UK with his partner, Jane. Rebecca encounters a familiar face and finds her own happy ending.
The finale wraps up various storylines, with Roy becoming AFC Richmond’s new manager, Keeley thriving in her agency, and a potential spinoff brewing with the proposition of an AFC Richmond Women’s Team. Nate finds love, Beard gets married, and the characters move forward in their lives.
While the story could continue, the Season 3 finale provides a satisfying conclusion if it serves as the series finale. Ted Lasso’s journey has inspired many, especially during challenging times. It’s difficult to bid farewell to such a beloved character, but seeing him triumph is a joyous moment.