Previously on Ted Lasso, coach seemed conflicted but eventually made the big decision to bring back club antagonist, Jamie Tartt. There is a huge upside if he can take AFC Richmond out of its funk of ties but his introduction also has the potential to disrupt the team’s chemistry. He wasn’t necessarily the best teammate and he was responsible for their relegation. How will Tartt round two go?
Jamie begins doing all the right things. He’s willing to start from the bottom on the practice squad and earn his way to the first team. He tries to clear all the air by apologizing but then we see the true extent of his previous toxicity. It’s more than bullying and disparaging remarks with even hitting on a teammate’s mother. If you can’t win them over with kindness, maybe buy their love. The former Man City star contemplates gifting PS5s to the whole team.
Shockingly, integrating Jamie back into the team isn’t the biggest drama of “Do the Right-est Thing.” Sam receives his biggest spotlight of Ted Lasso yet as he’s embroiled in a controversy. After a seemingly nice PR gig promoting the Greyhound’s sponsor, Dubai Air, he learns that their parent company is responsible for polluting the environment in his home country and is involved in corruption scandals with Nigeria’s leaders.
In the first season, actor, Toheeb Jimoh, brought a lot of wholesome nice guy vibes to his character. In the most recent episodes, Sam has matured and found himself in a leadership position taking a more active and vocal role in the clubhouse. He is even confident enough to stand up to Jamie. He still retains his “Aww shucks” mentality but is more assertive and as the episode’s title mentions, he tries to do the “right-est” thing.
Ted Lasso tries to be relevant as it rejects the “stick to sports” mantra and pursues social activism. The issue at hand is a wise move since it could be less polarizing to viewers than taking a knee. More importantly though, it demonstrates how close and tight-knit the entire operation is complementing the feel-good story of the series.
From the top with the owner, and all the way to the bottom, everyone is so supportive of Sam’s crusade. Jamie being the first non-Nigerian AFC Richmond member to stand beside his teammate is a touching gesture especially since he probably is still the highest profile player despite his current setbacks. Lasso provides the platform to speak his mind and Jimoh shines in the moment as his character addresses the media. Sam has such pride in speaking out and taking a stand.
You better believe Dubai Air isn’t happy with the stunt and it could jeopardize their partnership. Higgins alludes to the financial trouble the club is facing and it adds another hardship to overcome. It’s stacking the odds against the little team that could placing their backs against the wall. That way it feels even sweeter if they make it out on top. They can earn promotion and get that Premier League money to offset the loss of a sponsor. The show couldn’t possibly break our hearts two season finales in a row, could they?
Aside from the great plot developments, there are some nice character moments. Rebecca seems a freer woman compared to last year and we see a softer side of her as she spends time with her god daughter, Nora. She receives some sage advice from Roy about trying too hard to impress because all kids want is to be involved in their lives. Case in point, Phoebe’s excitement to tag-a-long during Roy’s podiatrist appointment.
Ted Lasso partakes in more shenanigans unleashing “That Guy,” Led Tasso. It’s a weak attempt to galvanize his team. It’s funnier that Doctor Fieldstone easily breaks down its purpose while Ted and Coach Beard readily admit the gimmick hasn’t been successful in the past.
This is a superb episode that provides actor, Toheeb Jimoh, a true opportunity to shine while also establishing a major conflict that could have lasting repercussions for the entire club.
New episodes of Ted Lasso are released Fridays on Apple TV+.
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