‘The Wizard of Oz’ Inspired a Completely Unexpected Show

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As a long-time fan of both Apple TV+ and classic films, I must say that the connection between “Ted Lasso” and “The Wizard of Oz” is nothing short of magical! The creators of this delightful series have skillfully woven together two beloved stories in a way that truly resonates with viewers.

The popular series “Ted Lasso” concluded a year ago, yet conversations about it continue unabated. The show proved to be a monumental triumph for Apple TV+, amassing 13 Emmy awards over its three seasons. Eagle-eyed viewers have concocted their own speculations regarding the characters and sources of inspiration for the show. Recently, Brett Goldstein, who portrays soccer star Roy Kent, confirmed that one theory about the show is indeed accurate. With the musical “Wicked” still resonating, a journalist inquired if there was any link between the Apple TV+ show and “The Wizard of Oz.” Goldstein acknowledged the connection and even delved into how the film influenced the characters’ personalities.

Brett Goldstein Confirms Popular Fan Connection

Brett Goldstein, the actor behind soccer player Roy Kent in Ted Lasso, openly acknowledged that The Wizard of Oz served as a source of inspiration for the show during an interview with Entertainment Weekly. When queried about any potential links between the film and series, Goldstein’s response swiftly made it clear.

Goldstein commented, “Indeed, there are numerous references to ‘The Wizard of Oz’ in Ted Lasso. The pinball machine symbolizes ‘Ted needs to return home. There’s no place like home.’ And just as there’s no place like Oz, there’s no place like Richmond F.C.

In a creative twist, the storyline of this show is inspired by “The Wizard of Oz”. To put it simply, American football coach Ted Lasso, hailing from Kansas much like Dorothy, steps into an alien landscape – England – similar to Oz, as he takes charge of soccer coaching. Along his journey, Ted helps guide other characters towards self-discovery, and as the series progresses, it’s revealed that he yearns for home just like Dorothy did in her quest to return to Kansas.

In the show I adore, I found a fascinating connection between certain characters and those from “The Wizard of Oz”. Brett Goldstein himself hinted that the gruff, closed-off Roy Kent learns to open his heart like the Tin Man, golden-haired Rebecca Walton gains courage akin to the Lion, and self-centered Jamie Tartt learns teamwork, much like the Scarecrow. Some viewers have also noticed that Dr. Sharon M. Fieldstone in season 2 mirrors the Wizard, as she’s portrayed as the fixer of everyone’s problems, only to reveal her own humanity.

The Signs Were There All Along

Beyond sharing a broad narrative resemblance to the 1939 film, Ted Lasso incorporated numerous nods to The Wizard of Oz. For instance, there’s the pinball machine themed around The Wizard of Oz that Brett Goldstein references, which Ted Lasso plays in the pub during the final episode. Moreover, Goldstein hints at a secret slogan for Richmond F.C., “No place like home,” which is reminiscent of a line spoken by Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz.

In addition, there are hidden nods that some viewers may not catch. For instance, the shirt Roy Kent gets from his niece Phoebe in Season 3, Episode 10, sports a swirling pattern of yellow and red tie-dye, resembling the beginning of the yellow brick road in The Wizard of Oz. Likewise, Ted Lasso dons red sneakers consistently throughout the series, much like Dorothy’s red shoes in The Wizard of Oz. In one episode, Ted uncovers a yellow LEGO brick that his son left behind in his flat, an evident reference to the yellow brick road, hinting that Ted should return home.

In the final season, there are some musical nods to “The Wizard of Oz.” Specifically, during season 3, episode 11, while the Richmond F.C. team is on screen, the romantic comedy “You’ve Got Mail” featuring Tom Hanks is being watched. The scene depicts “Over the Rainbow,” a song famously from “The Wizard of Oz,” playing in the background. Interestingly, in the same episode’s credits, Brandi Carlile performs a cover of “Home,” a tune that initially came from a musical adaptation of “The Wizard of Oz” titled “The Wiz.

As a movie critic, I find it intriguing how some character names in this film echo those from The Wizard of Oz. While Ted isn’t identical to Dorothy, his short form, Theodore, shares roots with her name. The compelling parallel continues with Ted’s mother, Dottie – a name often used as a diminutive for Dorothy. Lastly, the quest to return home to Henry mirrors Dorothy’s journey in Kansas. It’s a clever touch that adds depth to the narrative.

Will Viewers See More of Ted Lasso?

If supporters of the TV show “Ted Lasso” are eagerly anticipating more appearances from character Ted Lasso, they may need to accept that this wish might not come true, as actor Jason Sudeikis has announced that the storyline for Coach Lasso has concluded. On a positive note, spectators who are primarily interested in seeing more of the Richmond F.C. team might find themselves in luck, as some cast members have hinted at the possibility of another season.

If Ted Lasso is back in Kansas, the fourth season of “Ted Lasso” might delve into the lives of other characters. In his conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Brett Goldstein shared some concepts for this potential shift in focus. His suggestions, which might not span more than a few episodes, involve a zombie high school musical featuring Roy Kent’s niece Phoebe, an “After Hours”-inspired comedy starring Coach Beard, or a religious drama centering around Leslie Higgins’ priest son.

Though Goldstein’s concepts might not work for an entire season of Ted Lasso, it’d be exciting for fans if they were included in a multi-episode anthology series, each episode exploring unique characters from Ted Lasso. Regrettably, Apple TV+ hasn’t confirmed a fourth season yet. In the meantime, devoted spectators can enjoy revisiting their favorite episodes, perhaps uncovering additional The Wizard of Oz references along the way. Stream on Apple TV+.

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2024-12-01 19:31