In a revelation that would make even Ted Lasso proud, Brendan Hunt - the man behind the quietly brilliant Coach Beard - has confirmed he's officially off the market after secretly marrying his long-term partner, actress Shannon Nelson.
The couple, who have been together for nearly two decades, decided to make things official in a beautifully understated London ceremony that flew completely under the radar. Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, Hunt shared the delightful news that even their closest friends were kept in the dark about their nuptials.
The Secret London Celebration
'We got married in London, just the two of us,' Hunt revealed with the same dry wit that makes Coach Beard so beloved. 'We didn't tell anybody, so it was a surprise to everybody when we finally let them know.'
The low-key approach perfectly reflects Hunt's personality - a world away from the typical Hollywood extravaganza. The ceremony took place earlier this year, though Hunt remained characteristically coy about the exact date, keeping some mystery around their special day.
A Love Two Decades in the Making
Hunt and Nelson's relationship spans an impressive eighteen years, proving that sometimes the best love stories are the ones that develop quietly away from the spotlight. The couple first met in Chicago's vibrant theatre scene, where both were building their careers before Hollywood came calling.
Their connection has weathered cross-continental moves, career changes, and the incredible success of Ted Lasso, which transformed Hunt from respected character actor to internationally recognised star.
From Chicago to London: A Transatlantic Romance
The couple's journey from Chicago to London mirrors Hunt's own career trajectory. While Hunt became a household name through Ted Lasso's London setting, Nelson has built an impressive career of her own with roles in shows like Boardwalk Empire and The Good Wife.
Their decision to marry in London feels particularly poignant given how the city has become such a significant part of their lives during the filming of the hit Apple TV+ series.
What's Next for the Newlyweds?
While Hunt's future with Ted Lasso remains uncertain following the show's apparent conclusion, his personal life is clearly entering an exciting new chapter. The couple haven't revealed whether they plan a larger celebration with family and friends, but for now, they're content with their intimate London ceremony.
As Hunt put it with typical understatement: 'We just decided it was time.' And for fans who've followed his career, there's something beautifully fitting about Coach Beard finding his happy ending away from the spotlight, in the city that brought him global fame.
