‘Ted Lasso’ Reflects Non-Toxic Masculinity In Series Finale

Over the course of its three-season run, “Ted Lasso” and its titular protagonist (played by Jason Sudeikis) have evolved in some unmistakable ways. Perhaps most notable is the emphasis on showcasing men in an unstereotypical way.

There’s room for emotion

Whereas men have long been portrayed in films, on TV, and too often in real life as “toxic.” But the predominantly male cast of characters in this AppleTV+ series offers a different narrative — and it was on full display in the final episode.

Sure, they’re a bunch of jocks who spend a lot of the show in a locker room. Nevertheless, they were willing to reveal a little vulnerability when it came time to say goodbye to one another.

In addition to the team he led, Lasso’s character included insight into the struggles he experienced in his relationship as a son and a father.

Then there’s the character of Rupert, who embodies those traits that the rest of the show makes an effort to eschew. Whereas most of the characters have been inching toward a new take on masculinity, he finished out the series as an exception to the rule.

Final words to live by

Pretty much all of the men portrayed in the series have encountered their own challenges along the way, and while they might have shown an instinctive tendency to bottle things up or become angry, they ultimately decided to deal with their issues in a healthy and healing way.

That all built up to a touching and poignant finale in which the character of Leslie provided some advice we can all take to heart.

“The best we can do is to keep asking for help and accepting it when you can,” he said. “And if you keep on doing that you’ll always be moving toward better.”

Chris Agee June 2nd, 2023

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