Jason Sudeikis, the creator and star of Apple TV+'s hit series Ted Lasso, has reflected on the show's unexpected cultural impact and his recent visit to the White House. Speaking in London, the 47-year-old actor described meeting President Joe Biden as 'like meeting your good friend’s father', noting that the president made him feel at home.
The show, which premiered during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, has evolved from a traditional sports comedy into a platform for mental health advocacy and political commentary. One recent episode juxtaposed a slapstick training drill with a critique of the UK government's 'stop the boats' campaign. Sudeikis and the cast were invited to the White House to discuss mental health strategies, where a 'BELIEVE' sign, the motto of fictional club AFC Richmond, was taped above the Oval Office door.
Sudeikis admitted he felt 'nonplussed' entering the real Oval Office, having impersonated George W Bush and Joe Biden on Saturday Night Live in a mock version of the same room. He wore sneakers despite his mother's warning, a move he described as 'very Ted Lasso'. The actor, who has a salt-and-pepper beard and was dressed casually, said the show represents 'wish-fulfilment' and a desire to 'write the change you want to see in the world'.
As the third season approaches its finale, Sudeikis insists it will be the last. He remains 'pleased as pie' with the show's success, which has turned Coach Lasso into a modern-day guru for kindness and decency.
