Ted Lasso Finale Swaps Theme Song for Brandi Carlile Cover Amid Major Coaching Shifts

Key points

• Brandi Carlile performed a 30-second cover of the 'Ted Lasso' theme song in the Season 4 finale, replacing the original version by Marcus Mumford.
• Co-creator Brendan Hunt stated the change was needed to avoid an abrupt transition after the death of character Mae, and Carlile’s version is the first performed by a woman.
• Hunt described Carlile’s full version as 'incredible' and 'funereal,' suggesting it may not be used for every episode in a potential Season 5.
• The finale concluded with Ted Lasso stepping down as head coach to become an assistant to Alice Chilton, who was promoted to lead the women's team.
• Roy Kent left the show to manage Chelsea, and Rebecca Welton secured majority ownership of the club while becoming engaged to Matthijs.
• IndieWire critic Ben Travers noted that Season 4 embraced a more traditional sitcom format after a disjointed third season, though the series has not been renewed for Season 5.

Background

The Season 4 finale, titled 'Being Alive,' marked a significant shift for the Apple TV series after a challenging third season. Previous episodes had focused on the Lady Greyhounds women's team and the club's ownership crisis. The finale resolved these arcs by promoting Alice Chilton and restructuring the coaching staff. The use of an alternate theme song is not new; Jeff Tweedy performed a cover for the Season 2 episode 'Beard After Hours.'

How outlets are covering it

Deadline focused on the creative decision behind the theme song change, highlighting Brendan Hunt's interview and the significance of Carlile’s performance as the first female vocalist for the theme. IndieWire provided a critical review, emphasizing that Season 4 successfully returned to a traditional sitcom format after a difficult third season, though it noted the series cut corners on some emotional scenes. Both outlets agreed that the finale set up potential storylines for a future season, but Deadline emphasized the emotional impact of the theme song, while IndieWire focused on the structural changes and the show's return to its sitcom roots.

Why it matters

The finale's major coaching shifts and the use of a new theme song signal a potential new direction for 'Ted Lasso' if it is renewed for Season 5. The promotion of Alice Chilton and the focus on the women's team suggest a shift in the show's narrative focus. The use of Carlile’s theme song, while likely a one-time thing, highlights the show's willingness to adapt its tone to match significant story developments.

What to watch

The series has not been renewed for Season 5 as of the publication date. If renewed, the show may continue to focus on Alice Chilton and the women's team, with Ted Lasso in a supporting role. The use of Carlile’s theme song may or may not continue, depending on the tone of future episodes.