AceShowbiz - The return of Ted Lasso is officially underway, as Apple TV has released a new teaser confirming the comeback of a key original character for season 4. After wrapping up its third season in 2023, the sports comedy-drama series is slated to return later this year. While much about the new season remains under wraps, the recent teaser sheds light on the involvement of Coach Beard, played by Brendan Hunt.

The teaser begins with a film clapboard indicating it is for season 4, episode 4, before pulling back to reveal Coach Beard engrossed in a book titled Soccer Women. The scene captures Beard giving a subtle, inquisitive glance over his shoulder. This visual confirmation affirms that Beard will be part of the new season’s narrative.

Coach Beard has been a component of Ted Lasso since its inception. As Ted’s longtime assistant coach and confidant, Beard brings a grounded perspective to the team. The conclusion of season 3 saw Beard fabricating an appendicitis diagnosis to avoid flying back to the United States with Ted. Instead, he chooses to stay in London to build a future with his girlfriend Jane, whom he marries in a pagan ceremony. This decision marks a turning point for the character.

Beyond Beard’s return, several other original cast members have been confirmed to reprise their roles in season 4. Jason Sudeikis will return as the titular Ted Lasso, while Hannah Waddingham will once again portray Rebecca Welton. Additional confirmed returning characters include Annette Badland’s Mae Green, Juno Temple’s Keeley Jones, Brett Goldstein’s Roy Kent, and Jeremy Swift’s Leslie Higgins.

Season 4 will also introduce a fresh set of characters played by new cast members such as Rex Hayes, Abbie Hern, Jude Mack, Faye Marsay, Tanya Reynolds, and Aisling Sharkey. Notably, the role of Ted’s son Henry will be recast with Grant Feely taking over from Gus Turner.

Details about the plot of Ted Lasso season 4 are currently scarce, with the creators maintaining a tight lid on the story’s direction. However, considering Ted’s return to coaching, it is logical to infer that Beard will continue to be his trusted partner throughout the season.

The official release window for season 4 has been announced as summer 2026. With Beard’s role confirmed and the cast largely intact, anticipation is building for the new episodes.

As the summer approaches, viewers can look forward to uncovering the full scope of Beard’s involvement and how his personal choices will impact the season’s narrative. Until then, the teaser serves as a glimpse into the future of Ted Lasso and its characters.