Ted Lasso: How the power of positivity earned the freshman comedy 20 Emmy nods

By Erin Hayhurst

With the insanity of current world events constantly influencing media, it’s easy for television to fall into the same pessimistic tropes used by dramas and comedies alike. Apple TV’s series “Ted Lasso” breaks this cycle in the most delightful way, earning the freshman comedy a record breaking 20 Emmy Award nominations and seven wins. 

Based on a series of NBC promotional skits, the show depicts an American Football coach who is recruited to coach a Premier Football League Team in England- having no knowledge of soccer whatsoever. The title character, however, doesn’t let this stand in his way. Instead, he uses his upbeat and optimistic demeanor to connect with his players and make them work as a team, giving them lessons that expand out of the training room and into their lives.  

Ted’s positivity reaches characters and audiences alike. From the icy club owner, Rebbecca, to the grumpy team captain, Roy, this show gives viewers characters we want to root for. They feel like real people that audiences can connect with. It’s these portrayals that earned the cast seven acting nominations and wins in three of the four acting categories: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. 

After such a whirlwind of a year, “Ted Lasso” is the perfect show to both liven and enlighten the spirits of everyone in need of a little positivity. With genuinely funny characters, engaging storylines, and countless inspirational moments, this award-winning series teaches us to never settle for fine, to take on challenges, and- most of all- to believe in miracles.