Turns Out Brett Goldstein Was Up For A Different Ted Lasso Character Before Auditioning For Roy Kent, And I Can’t Even Picture It

by

It’s likely that when you hear Brett Goldstein‘s name, you instantly imagine Roy Kent from Ted Lasso. This comedian became well-known due to his two-time Emmy-winning portrayal of the gruff footballer on one of Apple TV+’s top shows, and he remains adored for this role. Interestingly enough, that wasn’t the part he had originally auditioned for, and I must admit, it’s hard for me to visualize him playing a different character he was considered for.

As a huge fan, I must share this fascinating behind-the-scenes detail: Initially, Brett Goldstein was the top pick for the character of Higgins on Ted Lasso. He was initially brought onboard as a writer and was even given a glimpse of possibility to portray AFC Richmond’s Director of Communications. However, it turned out that Jeremy Swift, with his swift entry into the picture, snatched the role away, as revealed by Goldstein himself in an interview with Jeremy Egner in the book Believe.

Initially, I joined the team as a writer under the expectation that Bill Lawrence might consider me for the role of Higgins. However, when we watched Jeremy’s audition tape during our writers’ meeting, I realized immediately that I no longer had a chance at the part.

Frankly, I find it hard to imagine anyone else playing these roles as perfectly as Goldstein does Roy Kent in Ted Lasso, and Jeremy Swift as Higgins. This is simply how they are cast in the series.

Is it conceivable for you to imagine Goldstein uttering a line from “Ted Lasso”, such as “Ceaser you later”? Can you envision him playing the bass? Frankly, I can’t picture it either. But, it’s something I would enjoy seeing. Unfortunately, we don’t inhabit a universe where that scenario unfolds.

Initially, Goldstein wasn’t the only contender for the role in question; several main cast members of Ted Lasso were also in the running to portray Rebecca’s right-hand man initially. Notably, Nick Mohammed (now known as Nate) and Phil Dunster (currently Jamie Tartt) were on that list. This fact just adds another layer of absurdity, as it’s hard for me to visualize any of them in the role of Higgins.

It’s quite an impressive testament to the exceptional performances of each actor on Ted Lasso. Every cast member left an indelible impact through their characters, and these roles continue to be fondly recalled by many.

Indeed, I’m thrilled beyond words that Jeremy Swift was chosen to play Higgins. It’s hard to imagine “Ted Lasso” without him. Interestingly, Brett Goldstein opted for Roy Kent instead of Higgins, and I must say, I’m thankful for this twist. The show wouldn’t have the same charm if they were in each other’s roles. In retrospect, I’m simply delighted that things turned out as they did, with these two brilliant actors embodying their respective characters so perfectly.

If you’d like to revisit the brilliant series, Ted Lasso, and imagine Brett Goldstein portraying Higgins rather than Roy Kent, you can do so by streaming all three seasons on Apple TV+ after subscribing to their service.

Read More

2025-01-25 20:07