The new season of the Apple TV+ series 'Ted Lasso,' premiering August 5, will feature the addition of actor Rex Hayes to its cast. Hayes will portray an Irish character, distinct from his Welsh heritage, as part of a newly introduced female football team.
Hayes expressed his enthusiasm for joining the ensemble, noting the welcoming atmosphere fostered by the show's established cast, including Jason Sudeikis and Brendan Hunt, who plays Coach Beard. "It's such a privilege to be a part of something like this," Hayes stated, reflecting on the support from the series regulars. "These people have been doing this for a long time, and have really honed their craft. They know what it takes to be good people, both on set and off."
The new female team, dubbed the Lady Greyhounds, includes 'Game of Thrones' actress Faye Marsay, Abbie Hern, Jude Mack, and Tanya Reynolds, with Hayes's on-screen sister played byered Sharkey. Hayes described their on-screen relationship as mirroring their real-life friendship, stating, "We are best mates. What you see on screen is very much our real life relationship, we adore each other."
Hayes shared his personal experience of joining the show, describing the moment of trying on the team's kit and stepping onto the pitch as a surreal and deeply appreciated experience. He hopes audiences will embrace the new characters and the expanded storyline with the same open-mindedness that defined the show's initial reception. "I would ask audiences to meet us the same way you met the men's team – with open hearts, in the way that Ted Lasso meets everyone," Hayes said. "One of my favourite quotes from the show is: 'be curious, not judgemental.' That's my ethos for anyone meeting the show this season."