Few shows manage to blend heart, humor, and genuine character growth as effortlessly as Ted Lasso. After a long hiatus, the Apple TV+ hit returned for a fourth season in 2025, much to the delight of fans. This time around, Ted (Jason Sudeikis) is not only back with Richmond AFC but also takes on a new challenge: coaching the women's team. The series continues to tackle important themes, from mental health in men's sports to the biases women's sports face, while introducing fresh faces and revisiting beloved ones. With so many memorable personalities, ranking the best characters is no easy task, but here's our take on the standouts so far.
13. Michelle Lasso
TV often paints exes as bitter adversaries, but Ted Lasso subverts that trope with Michelle (Andrea Anders). She remains supportive of Ted even after their divorce, and her actions in Season 4's premiere are nothing short of heroic. Recognizing the pain beneath Ted's cheerful facade, she makes a selfless decision: she agrees to move to England with their son Henry (Grant Feely) so Ted can pursue his coaching dream while staying close to his child. It's a rare portrayal of an ex-wife who genuinely wants her former partner to be happy, making her one of the most refreshing characters on TV.
12. Mae Green
Annette Badland brings to life Mae, the no-nonsense owner of the local pub where fans gather to watch matches. She runs her establishment with an iron fist, but beneath that stern exterior lies a warm heart. Mae offers Ted sage advice, treats her regulars like family, and is as passionate about football as any fan. She's the kind of pub owner you wish existed in every town—someone who makes you feel at home, whether there's a game on or not.
11. Sam Obisanya
Sam (Toheeb Jimoh) is the kind of person you'd want in your corner. His genuine kindness is evident when he risks a lucrative deal to honor his Nigerian heritage and when he chooses loyalty to Richmond over personal gain. His brief romance with Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham) highlighted his charm, and his journey to open a restaurant in Season 3 was heartwarming. Though his role in Season 4 is uncertain, fans would love to see him again.
10. Dani Rojas
Dani (Cristo Fernández) is pure sunshine on screen. His infectious love for football—"Football is life!"—became a rallying cry for fans. Beyond his optimism, he's a talented player whose vulnerability when he accidentally killed the team's mascot showed depth. His sessions with Dr. Sharon Fieldstone (Sarah Niles) were pivotal in proving therapy's value. While Dani isn't in Season 4 (Fernández is pursuing a real-life soccer career), his spirit remains a highlight of the series.
9. Alice Chilton
Newcomer Alice (Tanya Reynolds) is like a gender-swapped Roy Kent—brash, prickly, and initially resistant to Ted's presence. As the interim coach of the women's team, she feels threatened by Ted's arrival, but glimpses of her softer side suggest she'll be a key player this season. Her clash of coaching styles with Ted promises compelling drama, making her one of the most intriguing additions to the cast.
While these characters shine, the show's true magic lies in its ensemble. From the ever-loyal Coach Beard to the fiercely independent Keeley Jones, each character brings something unique. As Season 4 unfolds, we're reminded why Ted Lasso remains a beacon of positivity in television. For more on the show's recent developments, check out our analysis of Roy and Keeley's reunion and the Tarantino easter egg in the latest episode.
As we await the rest of the season, one thing is clear: Ted Lasso continues to deliver characters we love, root for, and see a bit of ourselves in. Whether it's the wisdom of Mae or the fire of Alice, there's no shortage of memorable moments. And if you're craving more rankings, check out our list of top noir video games or soft sci-fi books for more entertainment picks.
