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Believe: The Untold Story Behind Ted Lasso, the Show That Kicked Its Way into Our Hearts
The definitive book on the TV show Ted Lasso, written by New York Times journalist and editor Jeremy Egner, celebrating the show’s improbable rise and cultural impact while never losing sight of the heart, friendship, and passion that have made it an enduring favorite for the ages
When Ted Lasso first aired in 2020, nobody—including those who had worked on it—knew how a show inspired by an ad, centered around soccer, filled mostly with unknown actors, and led by a wondrously mustached “nice guy” would be received. Now, eleven Emmys and one Peabody Award later, it’s safe to say that the show’s status as a pop culture phenomenon is secure. And, for the first time, New York Times television editor Jeremy Egner explores the creation, production, and potent legacy of Ted Lasso.
Drawing on dozens of interviews from key cast, creators, and more, Believe takes readers from the very first, silly NBC Premier League commercial to the pitch to Apple executives, then into the show’s writer’s room, through the brilliant international casting, and on to the unforgettable set and locations of the show itself.
Egner approaches his reporting as a journalist and as a cultural critic, but also with an affection and admiration fans will appreciate, carefully and humorously telling Ted Lasso’s story of teamwork, of hidden talent, of a group of friends looking around at the world’s increasingly nasty discourse and deciding that maybe simple decency still had the power to bring us together—a story about what happens when you dare to believe.
When Ted Lasso first aired in 2020, nobody—including those who had worked on it—knew how a show inspired by an ad, centered around soccer, filled mostly with unknown actors, and led by a wondrously mustached “nice guy” would be received. Now, eleven Emmys and one Peabody Award later, it’s safe to say that the show’s status as a pop culture phenomenon is secure. And, for the first time, New York Times television editor Jeremy Egner explores the creation, production, and potent legacy of Ted Lasso.
Drawing on dozens of interviews from key cast, creators, and more, Believe takes readers from the very first, silly NBC Premier League commercial to the pitch to Apple executives, then into the show’s writer’s room, through the brilliant international casting, and on to the unforgettable set and locations of the show itself.
Egner approaches his reporting as a journalist and as a cultural critic, but also with an affection and admiration fans will appreciate, carefully and humorously telling Ted Lasso’s story of teamwork, of hidden talent, of a group of friends looking around at the world’s increasingly nasty discourse and deciding that maybe simple decency still had the power to bring us together—a story about what happens when you dare to believe.
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2024
257 people are currently reading
7453 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
November 4, 2024
I was a latecomer to what became a favorite show of mine, Ted Lasso. I wasn’t a fan of the original ad and I kept thinking there’s no way it’ll live up to the hype. And when I finally watched it (after season 3 had ended), I binge watched the whole series and texted essays to my friend who finally convinced me to see it.
What a treat it was then to receive this ARC and gain more insight into the series as well as a heavy dose of nostalgia for all it reminded me of. I loved learning about why certain decisions were made and seeing how intentional every storyline and personality trait was.
This show is so full of depth, focusing on mental health, friendship, self-growth, and so much more. And this book helps highlight how this show was so much more than just a series about soccer.
I highly recommend this oral history for any fan of the series. And if you haven’t watched it yet, go watch and then grab this book as a companion to the show.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
What a treat it was then to receive this ARC and gain more insight into the series as well as a heavy dose of nostalgia for all it reminded me of. I loved learning about why certain decisions were made and seeing how intentional every storyline and personality trait was.
This show is so full of depth, focusing on mental health, friendship, self-growth, and so much more. And this book helps highlight how this show was so much more than just a series about soccer.
I highly recommend this oral history for any fan of the series. And if you haven’t watched it yet, go watch and then grab this book as a companion to the show.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
June 10, 2024
throughout this book, Jeremy Egner assumes that you have seen Ted Lasso. Which, to be clear, I think is a very logical assumption to make about the readers.
I had not seen Ted Lasso prior to starting this book.
Still, I have so many friends who adore it and I know enough about its popularity and basic lore that I was intrigued. I wouldn't necessarily say that this is a book ~everyone~ should read—I do think it will primarily appeal to fans of the series. But it also speaks to Jeremy Egner's skill as a storyteller that I enjoyed this so much without having seen the show (to the point that I started watching the show concurrently with my read).
This is just a really fun look into not only the plot of the show, but the process of ideation and creating a phenomenon like this. It also goes without saying that, since Ted Lasso is such a positive show, this book is a pretty peppy read as well. Jeremy Egner is far enough removed from the subject, though, that he does offer some critical takes where necessary.
There were just a ton of fun insights into the show that I loved being able to look out for while watching. (Of course, having not been a fan before, I haven't consumed much interview/podcast content surrounding the series, so I guess I couldn't confidently say that this is all new information).
If you read this without watching Ted Lasso (which again, I don't fully know why you would do that, but also I did that), there will be spoilers. Which like... again, not the fault of a book that assumes you're probably on your fifth rewatch if you're willing to read a 350 page book about the series lol
I had not seen Ted Lasso prior to starting this book.
Still, I have so many friends who adore it and I know enough about its popularity and basic lore that I was intrigued. I wouldn't necessarily say that this is a book ~everyone~ should read—I do think it will primarily appeal to fans of the series. But it also speaks to Jeremy Egner's skill as a storyteller that I enjoyed this so much without having seen the show (to the point that I started watching the show concurrently with my read).
This is just a really fun look into not only the plot of the show, but the process of ideation and creating a phenomenon like this. It also goes without saying that, since Ted Lasso is such a positive show, this book is a pretty peppy read as well. Jeremy Egner is far enough removed from the subject, though, that he does offer some critical takes where necessary.
There were just a ton of fun insights into the show that I loved being able to look out for while watching. (Of course, having not been a fan before, I haven't consumed much interview/podcast content surrounding the series, so I guess I couldn't confidently say that this is all new information).
If you read this without watching Ted Lasso (which again, I don't fully know why you would do that, but also I did that), there will be spoilers. Which like... again, not the fault of a book that assumes you're probably on your fifth rewatch if you're willing to read a 350 page book about the series lol
December 30, 2024
Not enough time has passed between the show ending and this book coming out, which is probably why this book does not examine the show with a critical eye at all. In ten years I want everyone involved to come back and tell me what they really were thinking during the making of season 3 and how they honestly think it played out on screen.
November 20, 2024
4.5 stars. Great on audio!
February 16, 2025
I really wanted to give this book 4 stars. I loved a lot about it, and as a huge Ted Lasso fan, it was overall such a great read (well, listen, since I did it on audiobook). I had problems with the repetitiveness though. It seemed like a few little facts or scene breakdowns were repeated several times over and I was like “I’ve heard this already..”. All in all, an enjoyable read, but not a must unless you really like background facts.
November 29, 2024
Thanks to Penguin Random House and Goodreads for an advanced copy of this book.
Any fan of Ted Lasso will love the insight into the series and actors who created the unique, quirky. "pandemic" breakout series.
At first, I wasn't sure about the format of the book (quote after quote listed from producers/writers/actors from the series) since at times they came across as just list of responses about a topic, BUT by the middle I realized how true the format was to the themes of the show.
We need each other to survive, to "tell the narrative " that is life.
This is an honest look at the series while also being a love letter to the characters.
Any fan of Ted Lasso will love the insight into the series and actors who created the unique, quirky. "pandemic" breakout series.
At first, I wasn't sure about the format of the book (quote after quote listed from producers/writers/actors from the series) since at times they came across as just list of responses about a topic, BUT by the middle I realized how true the format was to the themes of the show.
We need each other to survive, to "tell the narrative " that is life.
This is an honest look at the series while also being a love letter to the characters.
December 31, 2024
Ok. I technically DNFF "Did Not Fully Finish," I did read a lot though. I read fully up to pg 120 and then started skimming and only read certain chapters or parts that peaked my interest.
It pains me to rate this book 1 star because I am a HUGE fan of Ted Lasso, HUGE. I love the show! I love the guy! I love the soundtrack! I love it all but I did not love this book.
First thing first, where are the pictures? There are 3 seasons of a show you could have taken screenshots from, actors and actresses attending galas and events and award shows you could have taken pictures from, there are behind the scene photographers on set and every single cast and crew member with a handheld mobile phone/camera in their pocket that you could have taken pictures from. I want to see glimpses and memories and photos and scenes from the show and the people I am reading about.
Second, this was extremely repetitive. I don't know how many times it was reiterated that Jason and Brendan are the creators, that the show isn't really about soccer much at all, that no one knew if it was going to be a hit or a flop when it started. I got the point very quickly, I didn't need it pointed out in nearly every chapter.
Third, there was nothing really new to learn about. Maybe we got a bit more insight in why the casted who they did or why they did a Coach Beard "After Hours" episode but other than a fee tidbits that could have been a fun magazine article to read, I didn't need so much filler, as in 300 PAGES of mostly filler.
Fourth, this was mostly quotes not written information. As in Jason Sudeikis: "----" Brendan Hunt: "----" Jason: "---" Tom: "---" etc. I read a physical copy, maybe the audiobook has everyone actually in their own voice? I don't know but it was longwinded hearing 6 peoples interviews broken up and interspersed with each other's to hear them all basically say the same thing.
Honestly, I am upset this is a low rating for me. I really am a big fan but I would recommend you just do a rewatch of the show instead of reading this book.
It pains me to rate this book 1 star because I am a HUGE fan of Ted Lasso, HUGE. I love the show! I love the guy! I love the soundtrack! I love it all but I did not love this book.
First thing first, where are the pictures? There are 3 seasons of a show you could have taken screenshots from, actors and actresses attending galas and events and award shows you could have taken pictures from, there are behind the scene photographers on set and every single cast and crew member with a handheld mobile phone/camera in their pocket that you could have taken pictures from. I want to see glimpses and memories and photos and scenes from the show and the people I am reading about.
Second, this was extremely repetitive. I don't know how many times it was reiterated that Jason and Brendan are the creators, that the show isn't really about soccer much at all, that no one knew if it was going to be a hit or a flop when it started. I got the point very quickly, I didn't need it pointed out in nearly every chapter.
Third, there was nothing really new to learn about. Maybe we got a bit more insight in why the casted who they did or why they did a Coach Beard "After Hours" episode but other than a fee tidbits that could have been a fun magazine article to read, I didn't need so much filler, as in 300 PAGES of mostly filler.
Fourth, this was mostly quotes not written information. As in Jason Sudeikis: "----" Brendan Hunt: "----" Jason: "---" Tom: "---" etc. I read a physical copy, maybe the audiobook has everyone actually in their own voice? I don't know but it was longwinded hearing 6 peoples interviews broken up and interspersed with each other's to hear them all basically say the same thing.
Honestly, I am upset this is a low rating for me. I really am a big fan but I would recommend you just do a rewatch of the show instead of reading this book.
November 7, 2024
3.5 stars. This book is as delightful as Ted Lasso himself.
I really enjoyed the way the author outlined the key themes of the show through interviews with the cast and crew. As warm and comforting as the show is, it was incredibly important to point out that there are a lot of dark undertones to the show - but the significant thing to point out (as both the interviewees and the author did) is that the characters are earnest and kind. They allow themselves to grow & change and support one another when they need it. It was great to read that the cast and crew felt the same way!
I do think that sometimes there was too much content, especially early on when we had a TON of interviews and a TON of exposition. But overall this was a pleasant read and a great recap of a beloved show.
Thank you to NetGalley, Jeremy Egner, and Dutton Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the way the author outlined the key themes of the show through interviews with the cast and crew. As warm and comforting as the show is, it was incredibly important to point out that there are a lot of dark undertones to the show - but the significant thing to point out (as both the interviewees and the author did) is that the characters are earnest and kind. They allow themselves to grow & change and support one another when they need it. It was great to read that the cast and crew felt the same way!
I do think that sometimes there was too much content, especially early on when we had a TON of interviews and a TON of exposition. But overall this was a pleasant read and a great recap of a beloved show.
Thank you to NetGalley, Jeremy Egner, and Dutton Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2025
Jeśli nie oglądaliście serialu „Ted Lasso”, to zdecydowanie powinniście to zmienić. To serial z bardzo rzadkiego gatunku seriali, po których chce się być dobrym dla ludzi i po którym człowiekowi jest po prostu dobrze. Wyciąga z doła i wprawia w dobry nastrój. Choć punkt wyjścia tego nie zapowiada: trener amerykańskiego futbolu przybywa do Londynu, aby zostać trenerem drużyny z Premier League. Nowa właścicielka ma plan, aby doprowadzić w ten sposób do upadku klub, który uwielbiał jej były mąż, a który przypadł jej w podziale majątku.
Dlatego przeczytanie tej książki było nie tylko pewnego rodzaju obowiązkiem, ale i przyjemnością. Dlatego również polecam ją przede wszystkim tym, którzy widzieli serial i chcieliby zajrzeć za kulisy jego powstawania i popularności. Dla reszty będzie to po prostu jedna z tych książek o kulisach powstawania jakiejś produkcji telewizyjnej.
Dlatego przeczytanie tej książki było nie tylko pewnego rodzaju obowiązkiem, ale i przyjemnością. Dlatego również polecam ją przede wszystkim tym, którzy widzieli serial i chcieliby zajrzeć za kulisy jego powstawania i popularności. Dla reszty będzie to po prostu jedna z tych książek o kulisach powstawania jakiejś produkcji telewizyjnej.
February 8, 2025
If you haven’t watched Ted Lasso yet, you should (ideally yesterday). This was a fun add-on and had some interesting details I couldn’t have gotten elsewhere.
December 28, 2024
I love Ted
December 29, 2024
anyone who's a ted lasso fan will absolutely love reading this book.
January 22, 2025
A little on the dry side but lots of interesting stories and tidbits from the show!
May 29, 2024
this is definitely a must-read and going to be a bookshelf staple for ted lasso fans when it comes out! the interviews and scene paraphrases are blended almost seamlessly, and episode recaps feel more fun than just a “what went well and what didn’t”. fun facts that i wasn’t aware of before are sprinkled in throughout, and the only reason i marked it down from five stars is that we get everyone’s perspective— other than the fans. i think that would’ve been a really interesting addition to the narrative.
but i loved what was here. i really did.
(i was given an ARC of this book by netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.)
but i loved what was here. i really did.
(i was given an ARC of this book by netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.)
January 15, 2025
This book brought me so much joy and made me smile real big, while also all along making me a better human and artist each step of the way. The interviews with the Ted Lasso team were wonderful, and largely read like an oral history, which is one of my favorite things to read.
That said, my only real ~quibble~ with this book is that there were a few things that felt quite surface level, and I wanted them to go deeper, whether it be in production and creative details or story analysis. There were also moments that felt like the author just wanted to close read an episode or a moment to get his opinions out there, rather than dive into the exploration of how those moments came to be, which is what I would have preferred. But I also do this stuff for a living, and think about these questions every day, so those pieces might not have been written for me, and that’s okay!
All in all, this book really highlighted what I always try and champion in my own work, and my book is now filled with little notes and hearts. It’s for sure going to become a work bible for me as I continue to direct (or write, or produce, or do any work with other people!).
Oh — and Jason Sudeikis and Brett Goldstein are clearly gifts to this world and we need to protect them at all costs. Now I’m done :)
That said, my only real ~quibble~ with this book is that there were a few things that felt quite surface level, and I wanted them to go deeper, whether it be in production and creative details or story analysis. There were also moments that felt like the author just wanted to close read an episode or a moment to get his opinions out there, rather than dive into the exploration of how those moments came to be, which is what I would have preferred. But I also do this stuff for a living, and think about these questions every day, so those pieces might not have been written for me, and that’s okay!
All in all, this book really highlighted what I always try and champion in my own work, and my book is now filled with little notes and hearts. It’s for sure going to become a work bible for me as I continue to direct (or write, or produce, or do any work with other people!).
Oh — and Jason Sudeikis and Brett Goldstein are clearly gifts to this world and we need to protect them at all costs. Now I’m done :)
January 28, 2025
Maybe I’ll appreciate this many years down the road but for now … it felt very repetitive and lacked real substance. This was just a compilation of unpacking some key episodes & major topics surrounding the show. The book is basically written in interview format so imagine my disappointment when the audio was one author the entire time.
Love the show and maybe I knew too much about it going in but this could’ve easily been a podcast instead.
Love the show and maybe I knew too much about it going in but this could’ve easily been a podcast instead.
June 6, 2025
I love Ted Lasso.
June 25, 2025
Great show and a book up to bar to talk about all the elements. When my best friend recommended me watch this show on Apple Plus with the dumb name, I was hesitant but then was pleasantly surprised on just how darn good the show is.
The book goes into all the aspects you would expect and appreciate. It is written so well, or the quotes from the people in the show are so insightful, it would be hard to give any insightful review of the insightful review of the amazing TV show. One phrase really stuck out to me though, 'finely crafted.' After listening to the book on audible, you fully realize that the show didn't just naturally fall together so perfectly, but that each part, line, and song was carefully selected.
One thing I would like to discuss from the book was references to COVID. There was a lot of discussion in the book on COVID restrictions and also on how it may have contributed to it's early success during the lockdown where people were looking for release. What bothers me is the elephant in the room about COVID is that so much of what we were told about COVID was a lie. We were told it mutated from a bat virus in a marketplace in China, we were told it was more deadly to normal healthy people and given inflated numbers, we were told that an inexpensive existing drug good for virus's didn't work and a new expensive drug would, we were told the vaccine and boosters were safe and effective at preventing getting COVID, and we were told that cloth and paper masks would stop a virus. The book mentions the phrase 'Be curious, not judgmental' about dealing with people, but regarding COVID, there was a lot of people who were not curious to anything contrary to the talking points on COVID and judgmental on anyone who doubted or were paying attention to information to the contrary. I know from my favorite books on psychology that people don't like to think and people are easily influenced, but I keep hoping people would learn and be more curious about finding the truth of things which means not being judgmental on those who believe differently.
Getting back to the book, although I hate the term 'must read,' if you are a fan of the Ted Lasso show I would want to use that phrase regarding this book.
The book goes into all the aspects you would expect and appreciate. It is written so well, or the quotes from the people in the show are so insightful, it would be hard to give any insightful review of the insightful review of the amazing TV show. One phrase really stuck out to me though, 'finely crafted.' After listening to the book on audible, you fully realize that the show didn't just naturally fall together so perfectly, but that each part, line, and song was carefully selected.
One thing I would like to discuss from the book was references to COVID. There was a lot of discussion in the book on COVID restrictions and also on how it may have contributed to it's early success during the lockdown where people were looking for release. What bothers me is the elephant in the room about COVID is that so much of what we were told about COVID was a lie. We were told it mutated from a bat virus in a marketplace in China, we were told it was more deadly to normal healthy people and given inflated numbers, we were told that an inexpensive existing drug good for virus's didn't work and a new expensive drug would, we were told the vaccine and boosters were safe and effective at preventing getting COVID, and we were told that cloth and paper masks would stop a virus. The book mentions the phrase 'Be curious, not judgmental' about dealing with people, but regarding COVID, there was a lot of people who were not curious to anything contrary to the talking points on COVID and judgmental on anyone who doubted or were paying attention to information to the contrary. I know from my favorite books on psychology that people don't like to think and people are easily influenced, but I keep hoping people would learn and be more curious about finding the truth of things which means not being judgmental on those who believe differently.
Getting back to the book, although I hate the term 'must read,' if you are a fan of the Ted Lasso show I would want to use that phrase regarding this book.
August 19, 2025
I put this on my TBR list as soon as I first heard about it - we're big Ted Lasso fans. And I knew this would be the only book I'd consider for the PopSugar soccer prompt!
Published in 2024 before a Season 4 was officially announced, this book is a comprehensive look at Seasons 1 -3. Starting from the unlikely origins as an NBC Premier League TV ad, through the development process which began well before the pandemic, and recapping each season's storylines/key character moments with plenty of behind-the-scenes accounts - the author leaves no stone unturned. I especially enjoyed all of the Star Wars references and analogies.
For me, this was another great choice for a non-fiction audiobook. My only quibble was that each cast or crew member was reintroduced the first time they were quoted/cited in a chapter - I think that after a few chapters that was really unnecessary especially with the lead cast. Maybe the print version did this as well? I just found it a little annoying - we know who Jason, Hannah, Brett, Juno, etc. are!
A must read for Ted Lasso fans!
This book fulfilled the 2025 PopSugar prompt #22 - A book about soccer.
Published in 2024 before a Season 4 was officially announced, this book is a comprehensive look at Seasons 1 -3. Starting from the unlikely origins as an NBC Premier League TV ad, through the development process which began well before the pandemic, and recapping each season's storylines/key character moments with plenty of behind-the-scenes accounts - the author leaves no stone unturned. I especially enjoyed all of the Star Wars references and analogies.
For me, this was another great choice for a non-fiction audiobook. My only quibble was that each cast or crew member was reintroduced the first time they were quoted/cited in a chapter - I think that after a few chapters that was really unnecessary especially with the lead cast. Maybe the print version did this as well? I just found it a little annoying - we know who Jason, Hannah, Brett, Juno, etc. are!
A must read for Ted Lasso fans!
This book fulfilled the 2025 PopSugar prompt #22 - A book about soccer.
October 3, 2025
As a fan of Ted Lasso, this book made for a really great reading experience. I enjoyed watching the show but didn’t know very much about its origins when I watched it, so I actually feel like I learned a lot from this book. This is another show where I knew the cast was close in real life, but reading about what they really accomplished together and how they found one another was delightful. It was also kinda funny reading it knowing what the future of the show is, so it makes me curious is there will be a follow-up to or updated version of this book one day. If you’re a fan of Richmond, I’d recommend it!
4/5 ⭐️
4/5 ⭐️
April 15, 2025
Listened to on audio, so the format took a minute for me to get a feel for (specifically how the quotes and authors were organized).
But overall a great read/listen and would be a great gift for a fan of the show. A fun look behind the scenes of everything from the show’s conception to casting to music choices to character arcs.
But overall a great read/listen and would be a great gift for a fan of the show. A fun look behind the scenes of everything from the show’s conception to casting to music choices to character arcs.
December 5, 2024
I have never read a book quite like this, but it was easy and fun to read and to feel reconnected with such an amazing show!
December 1, 2024
I don’t know about “untold” but certainly never been collected — all the various and piecemeal interviews, appearances, and soundbites — and collated into a cohesive narrative. The book chronicles the hard work, processes, and many delays that serendipitously brought forth the show into a climate and audience in which it thrived. It’s a formula that can’t be predicted but can be appreciated. A whole lot of talent, a sprinkle of luck, and a damn good idea expanded into a winning show. If you’re a fan, this one is a must.
My favorite parts were hearing about the casting process and how different characters were conceived or evolved. It was fascinating to see how actors and other persons influenced the directions of a character or the show as a whole. I also loved learning about their on location shooting and how and when they could film in real football clubs. Incredibly interesting.
Overall, it’s a feel good show with incredible substance and this is a feel good book. A winner when you need a winner and to recapture some Ted Lasso magic in your life.
A note: I listened to the audiobook, and while I understand this book isn’t the type to have tons of money backing the production, I still think it deserved having multiple narrators. A few who could attempt, even softly, the various accents of all the people who are quoted and speaking throughout. The flat American reading of every person definitely detracted from the experience. I’d recommend just going with a physical reading instead.
* I received a free audiobook from the publisher
My favorite parts were hearing about the casting process and how different characters were conceived or evolved. It was fascinating to see how actors and other persons influenced the directions of a character or the show as a whole. I also loved learning about their on location shooting and how and when they could film in real football clubs. Incredibly interesting.
Overall, it’s a feel good show with incredible substance and this is a feel good book. A winner when you need a winner and to recapture some Ted Lasso magic in your life.
A note: I listened to the audiobook, and while I understand this book isn’t the type to have tons of money backing the production, I still think it deserved having multiple narrators. A few who could attempt, even softly, the various accents of all the people who are quoted and speaking throughout. The flat American reading of every person definitely detracted from the experience. I’d recommend just going with a physical reading instead.
* I received a free audiobook from the publisher
January 9, 2025
I would have enjoyed this more if I read it after just having watched Ted Lasso so I better remembered certain scenes and episodes. Enjoyed getting behind the stories of the writing & acting in this series. Lots of very talented people.
December 23, 2024
really repetitive throughout, but interesting enough as a fan of the show
September 4, 2024
This book is filled to the brim with so many fun tidbits about the cast, production & filming of Ted Lasso! Reading this made me want to do a rewatch of the show, so I could try and pick up all the little references to other pieces of pop culture scattered throughout that I missed the first time around. And honestly, this would make a great rewatch companion guide with the way the author laid the book out by season & with chapters dedicated to individual episodes.
The chapters about specific episodes that provided a deep dive into the plot, and included stories/thoughts from the actors regarding their characters in that episode, were definitely my favorite! One of my absolute favorite chapters discussed how the actresses that played Rebecca & Keeley formed a real life friendship early on in filming. So the way you see them in the show is how they are off camera as well & I just love that so much 🥹
It did feel somewhat repetitive at times, as the author would briefly mention something in one chapter & then use very similar wording when he began to expand upon that same thing in a later chapter. But all the memories shared by the cast members were so funny & moving that I was able to quickly move past that.
This is kind of obvious but, I wouldn’t recommend reading this if you haven’t watched the show yet, or watched but did not enjoy (which, let’s be real… that second one’s highly unlikely). All you Lasso fans though— run to your nearest bookstore on November 12th to grab a copy of this behind the scenes goldmine!
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group - Dutton for this ARC
The chapters about specific episodes that provided a deep dive into the plot, and included stories/thoughts from the actors regarding their characters in that episode, were definitely my favorite! One of my absolute favorite chapters discussed how the actresses that played Rebecca & Keeley formed a real life friendship early on in filming. So the way you see them in the show is how they are off camera as well & I just love that so much 🥹
It did feel somewhat repetitive at times, as the author would briefly mention something in one chapter & then use very similar wording when he began to expand upon that same thing in a later chapter. But all the memories shared by the cast members were so funny & moving that I was able to quickly move past that.
This is kind of obvious but, I wouldn’t recommend reading this if you haven’t watched the show yet, or watched but did not enjoy (which, let’s be real… that second one’s highly unlikely). All you Lasso fans though— run to your nearest bookstore on November 12th to grab a copy of this behind the scenes goldmine!
Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group - Dutton for this ARC
May 2, 2025
If you love Ted Lasso, you're bound to at the very least enjoy this.
I had a lot of fun reading it. It brought back memories of the show and had me on YouTube rewatching clips. I loved all of the input from the cast, creators, and crew, which was presented in a format similar to those in oral histories. It is really interesting to hear about how people came to their parts and about the differences in filming the show as a whole over the three seasons. Without question, my favorite piece of trivia is how many people auditioned to play Higgins. It's wild.
I am a little less enthusiastic about the episode recaps. I don't mind them necessarily. I just don't like how the best save/best line/best assist format gels with the rest of the book. It feels a bit gimmicky. I also feel like while we addressed the criticism over season three, we didn't delve into it, and I'd have liked to have read more of the cast and crew takes on that, though I can understand if they were reluctant to speak on that topic.
So yeah, this is not the greatest pop culture history I've read, but as I said, if you enjoyed Ted Lasso, I don't see how you could not enjoy this book.
I had a lot of fun reading it. It brought back memories of the show and had me on YouTube rewatching clips. I loved all of the input from the cast, creators, and crew, which was presented in a format similar to those in oral histories. It is really interesting to hear about how people came to their parts and about the differences in filming the show as a whole over the three seasons. Without question, my favorite piece of trivia is how many people auditioned to play Higgins. It's wild.
I am a little less enthusiastic about the episode recaps. I don't mind them necessarily. I just don't like how the best save/best line/best assist format gels with the rest of the book. It feels a bit gimmicky. I also feel like while we addressed the criticism over season three, we didn't delve into it, and I'd have liked to have read more of the cast and crew takes on that, though I can understand if they were reluctant to speak on that topic.
So yeah, this is not the greatest pop culture history I've read, but as I said, if you enjoyed Ted Lasso, I don't see how you could not enjoy this book.
November 13, 2024
Book Review 📖🕶️📺
Believe: The Untold Story Behind Ted Lasso, the Show That Kicked Its Way Into Our Hearts
by Jeremy Egner
thank you so much partner @duttonbooks #duttonpartner for the gifted copy!
About the book 👇🏽
When Ted Lasso first aired in 2020, nobody—including those who had worked on it—knew how a show inspired by an ad, centered around soccer, filled mostly with unknown actors, and led by a wondrously mustachioed “nice guy” would be received. Eleven Emmys and one Peabody Award later, it’s safe to say that the show’s status as a pop-culture phenomenon is secure.
In Believe, entertainment journalist and Ted Lasso fan Jeremy Egner traces the show’s creation and legacy through the words of the people at its center. Drawing on dozens of interviews from key cast, creators, and more, Believe takes readers from the first, silly NBC Premier League commercial to the pitch to Apple executives, then into the show’s writers’ room, through the brilliant international casting, and on to the unforgettable set and locations of the show itself.
📺 My thoughts:
This is for the existing fans and for the future fans! But if you haven’t watched it YET, just know there are spoilers. Also If you haven’t watched the show, this book right here will give you the push you didn’t know you needed to go watch. It makes you feel good and it’s an absolute delight to read. With a look into the plot and the characters, this book doubles down on all the reasons the show is a huge hit and completely loveable. Happy to have read this for one of my Nonfiction November choices this month. Happy Publication week, Believe: The Untold Story Behind Ted Lasso, the Show That Kicked Its Way into Our Hearts is out NOW!
Happy reading 📖 📺✨
Believe: The Untold Story Behind Ted Lasso, the Show That Kicked Its Way Into Our Hearts
by Jeremy Egner
thank you so much partner @duttonbooks #duttonpartner for the gifted copy!
About the book 👇🏽
When Ted Lasso first aired in 2020, nobody—including those who had worked on it—knew how a show inspired by an ad, centered around soccer, filled mostly with unknown actors, and led by a wondrously mustachioed “nice guy” would be received. Eleven Emmys and one Peabody Award later, it’s safe to say that the show’s status as a pop-culture phenomenon is secure.
In Believe, entertainment journalist and Ted Lasso fan Jeremy Egner traces the show’s creation and legacy through the words of the people at its center. Drawing on dozens of interviews from key cast, creators, and more, Believe takes readers from the first, silly NBC Premier League commercial to the pitch to Apple executives, then into the show’s writers’ room, through the brilliant international casting, and on to the unforgettable set and locations of the show itself.
📺 My thoughts:
This is for the existing fans and for the future fans! But if you haven’t watched it YET, just know there are spoilers. Also If you haven’t watched the show, this book right here will give you the push you didn’t know you needed to go watch. It makes you feel good and it’s an absolute delight to read. With a look into the plot and the characters, this book doubles down on all the reasons the show is a huge hit and completely loveable. Happy to have read this for one of my Nonfiction November choices this month. Happy Publication week, Believe: The Untold Story Behind Ted Lasso, the Show That Kicked Its Way into Our Hearts is out NOW!
Happy reading 📖 📺✨
May 12, 2025
Much like the show, the book was amazing, an oral history of the creation and running of one of the best shows in the 21st century Ted Lasso.
Arriving at a much needed time in our history the upbeat Ted Lasso ran on hope, but there were well rounded characters and kind of realism where everything wasn’t great but the show and their characters dig to bring that hope to light even going through dark patches themselves.
The book is for fans of the show, or if you were contemplating watching the show but not sure.
I learned some new and interesting things, I liked how they broke down certain episodes, and again the oral history is the best history because it comes from the mouths of the creators and actors.
The writer does make his feelings known on a lot of things, it’s a great book, a good follow up after you watched all of Ted lasso (for now) or are just contemplating it.
In the end if you are a fan of the show you will be a fan of the book.
Arriving at a much needed time in our history the upbeat Ted Lasso ran on hope, but there were well rounded characters and kind of realism where everything wasn’t great but the show and their characters dig to bring that hope to light even going through dark patches themselves.
The book is for fans of the show, or if you were contemplating watching the show but not sure.
I learned some new and interesting things, I liked how they broke down certain episodes, and again the oral history is the best history because it comes from the mouths of the creators and actors.
The writer does make his feelings known on a lot of things, it’s a great book, a good follow up after you watched all of Ted lasso (for now) or are just contemplating it.
In the end if you are a fan of the show you will be a fan of the book.
June 14, 2024
I enjoy the show Ted Lasso and was looking forward to reading this book about the show. The book tells how the show started as a commercial campaign and evolved into the series that ran for three seasons. There are interviews with the cast and crew talking about their time on the show and about their time working with their fellow castmates. The first season was filmed before the pandemic, so part of the book talks about the difficulties of filming the second season and all the restrictions that were in place during that time. The book highlights certain episodes from each season and little tidbits about filming those episodes. It was fun to see what the cast had to say about filming this show and how they felt about their characters.
Overall, this was a fun read that any Ted Lasso fan might enjoy.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Overall, this was a fun read that any Ted Lasso fan might enjoy.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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