Annette Badland Reflects on Mae Green's 'Tremendous' Journey and Devastating Exit in 'Ted Lasso'

Annette Badland, the actress behind the beloved pub owner Mae Green in "Ted Lasso," has opened up about the character's unexpected departure in Season 4, Episode 9. The episode, titled "Mae Rides the Bus," saw Mae fulfill a lifelong dream of joining AFC Richmond's women's team on the road, delivering an inspiring pregame speech and celebrating their victory. However, the celebratory mood took a tragic turn by the episode's end.

Badland learned about Mae's fate directly from Jason Sudeikis, who plays Ted Lasso. "He came to my dressing room and told me the storyline," Badland recalled. While initially processing the news of her character's passing, she discussed ideas with Sudeikis, suggesting a potential for Mae to reappear in a manner similar to Clarence in "It's a Wonderful Life," a film Sudeikis has openly admired. "Maybe Mae can pop back up as a sort of conscience," Badland mused.

The actress described her final days on set as "tricky" and acknowledged the emotional impact of Mae's death on fans. She also shared her enthusiasm for Mae's expanded role in Season 4, particularly her involvement with the women's team. "They were tremendous, because I support women’s football, and I’m thrilled that the guys do," Badland said. "Mae came from a time when she couldn’t play, and that happened to a lot of women. And the girls are just fabulous."

"Ted Lasso" Season 4, Episode 9 also featured a tribute card honoring the late Anthony Head, who played Rupert Manion. Badland remembered Head as "funny, bright, inclusive, generous," with a "wry humor." She expressed sadness at his passing and pride in being part of the episode that paid tribute to him.

Reflecting on her favorite aspects of playing Mae over the past four seasons, Badland cited the freedom to be "very rude on television" and Mae's unwavering spirit. "She doesn’t give in. I respect Mae enormously. I think she’s probably been there, done it, had a difficult time, got through," Badland said. She also highlighted Mae's ability to see people for who they truly are, a quality she believes Mae shares with Ted.

When asked about the potential implications of Mae's absence on the show's plot, particularly regarding her shares in the club and the future of The Crown & Anchor pub, Badland remained coy. "She had a large pile of shares, as well. She had a significant amount. No spoilers about what happens in Episode 10, I’m afraid," she teased. She also commented on her scenes with Grant Feely, who plays Henry, calling him "terrific" and noting that "the unexpected happens."

Badland hopes Mae's legacy will inspire viewers to "stay feisty. Stay engaged. Don’t sit in a back room. Get out there and live." She also shared that she was gifted a "very Mae" item from the set, though she declined to reveal its identity, suggesting it might be a clue for the season finale.

The season finale of "Ted Lasso" is set to premiere on October 7 on Apple TV+.