The Season 4 finale of Apple TV's Ted Lasso, titled «The Departing Lass,» delivered a major coaching shakeup and a symbolic passing of the torch, according to co-creator and star Brendan Hunt. The episode ended with Ted Lasso, played by Jason Sudeikis, handing the AFC Richmond women's team manager job to someone else — a moment Hunt describes as a deliberate new beginning for the series.
Hunt, who also plays Coach Beard, broke down the finale's biggest developments in interviews following the episode's release. The coaching team underwent significant changes, with Roy Kent making a major move and Rebecca Welton's future left open-ended. The finale also featured the departure of a key character, though Hunt remained coy about who might be leaving the show permanently amid ongoing renewal discussions.
The «passing the torch» moment, as Hunt called it, signals a potential shift in the show's focus. Rather than centering on Ted's journey, the finale positions the women's team and its new leadership as the next chapter. Hunt explained that this was intentional, allowing the series to evolve while honoring its original spirit. The finale's title, «The Departing Lass,» underscores the theme of transition and new beginnings.
Viewers also noticed a change in the show's opening credits, with Brandi Carlile taking over the theme song from Marcus Mumford for the finale. Hunt did not confirm whether this change is permanent, but the switch added to the episode's sense of transformation. The finale's events have fueled speculation about a potential Season 5, though no official renewal has been announced.
Hunt's comments suggest that the creative team is open to continuing the story, but only if it serves the characters and their arcs. The finale's blend of closure and open-ended possibilities leaves room for future seasons while providing a satisfying conclusion to the current chapter. Fans of the show are now left to speculate about what comes next for AFC Richmond and its beloved characters.