TED LASSO: Episode 4.1: “Home”

TED LASSO returns to Apple TV+, and the first episode of Season Four drops viewers into Ted’s life in Kansas City, Missouri, where he works as the Assistant Manager at Fowche’s Fine Groceries. Everyone’s favorite football coach fills his time taking care of his son Henry, after giving up coaching to raise him with his ex-wife. Ted’s infectious optimism still shines as he’s a natural leader, sharing kindness and life lessons with co-workers and customers.

Familiar faces show up at Ted’s doorstep as Keely, Rebecca, and Higgins travel from West London to make a surprise stop by his house. Ted shows them hospitality by taking the trio to eat Kansas City Barbeque, where they feast on ribs and catch up. Turns out, they’re in town to attend the KC Current Football match to view the state-of-the-art facilities. The wheels are in motion for Rebecca to head the AFC Richmond Football team. Yet, Ted’s old friends have another important mission in mind and ask Ted to coach the team.

There’s only one problem. Ted doesn’t want to leave Henry’s side again. As he grapples with the decision, he invites them to Henry’s soccer game, which turns into a family affair when his ex-wife and mom attend too. It’s clear that being there for Henry is Ted’s priority, but there may be a tug pulling him back to Richmond. Meanwhile, in a refreshing turn of events, the Richmond gang embrace American culture throughout their visit.

Ted joins them at the KC Current Football match, where the energy is electric. Will it be enough for him to decide to head back to London to coach the AFC Richmond Football team, or will his family ties keep him in Kansas City?

The first episode of Season Four of TED LASSO serves as a departure for the series as it’s less about action on the field and more about the characters reacquainting themselves with each other and setting up the plot for the rest of the unfolding season. Jason Sudakis continues to drop hilarious one-liners, and the supporting cast carry their roles with ease. TED LASSSO fans may find the episode underwhelming as the slow pace eases viewers back into the story.

The episode contains a strong moral and pro-family worldview as Ted commits himself selflessly to raise his son. We see supportive divorced parents co-parenting their child, and a grandmother plays a prominent role in the family. The series captures heartwarming moments with characters supporting each other, highlighting the impotence of being a good role model, upholding morals, and having a positive attitude.

hat being said, the first episode of Season Four of TED LASSO also contains a Romantic worldview where characters follow their heart and try to be good people without leaning on God for guidance. Other concerning content includes strong foul language, scatological humor, sexual innuendos, and feminist elements. MOVIEGUIDE® advises caution for older children, teenagers, and sensitive adults.