AceShowbiz - Brett Goldstein, the acclaimed writer and star of "Ted Lasso", has confirmed a long-held fan theory: the Apple TV+ comedy is heavily inspired by "The Wizard of Oz".

"Oh yeah, there's loads and loads of 'The Wizard of Oz' in Ted Lasso," Goldstein told Entertainment Weekly. "The pinball machine is the one that's always 'Ted has to go home. There's no place like home.' And then, there's no place like Richmond F.C. Yes, that's all Wizard of Oz."

Goldstein elaborated by revealing the character parallels: his Roy Kent is the Tin Man, Jason Sudeikis' Ted is Dorothy, Hannah Waddingham's Rebecca is the Lion, and Phil Dunster's Jamie is the Scarecrow.

This theory has gained traction since Ted Lasso's 2020 debut, with fans noting similarities such as Ted's Kansas origins and his red sneakers reminiscent of Dorothy's ruby slippers.

Despite speculation that 'Ted Lasso' concluded after three seasons, a fourth season may be in the works. Deadline reported in August that Apple and Warner Bros. TV have picked up the options of key U.K. cast members. However, the show's future hinges on Sudeikis' decision.

"Jason Sudeikis, is the voice, heart, driving factor behind the show, not only professionally, but on a personal level," co-creator Bill Lawrence said. "The only sure bet in Hollywood is that nobody involved with 'Ted Lasso' will ever speak about it until Jason makes his decision of who he wants to talk to and what he wants to tell."