Beloved Character Dies in Heartbreaking 'Ted Lasso' Episode

The penultimate episode of "Ted Lasso" Season 4, titled "Mae Rides the Bus," concluded with a devastating twist: the apparent death of Mae Greene.

The episode, which largely celebrated the AFC Women's Team's crucial match and featured a joyous moment for Keeley, took a sharp turn in its final minutes. Mae, portrayed by Annette Badland, had accompanied the team on a bus trip to a game, fulfilling her own past football dreams. She shared life lessons with the younger players, gave an inspiring locker room speech, and cheered from the supporters' section.

However, after the Lady Greyhounds secured their victory, the camera panned to Mae's empty seat in the stands, revealing she had collapsed. A steward rushed to her side, and shortly after, a man informed Rebecca that there had been an incident involving "Ms. Green," confirming Mae's identity.

While the show left Mae's fate ambiguous in the episode, leaving viewers to question if she had truly died, interviews with the show's stars have confirmed the tragic turn. Actress Annette Badland, who plays Mae, along with co-stars Abbie Hern and Tanya Reynolds, spoke with DECIDER. Reynolds described the news as "devastating," while Hern noted that Mae is "so beloved" and an "essential part of Ted Lasso."

Badland confirmed that Jason Sudeikis presented her with the storyline for Mae's Season 4 arc, indicating that the departure was a planned narrative choice. Hern added that the writers found a "beautiful way" to honor Mae's character in Episode 9, giving her a memorable pre-game speech.

Mae Greene's presence on "Ted Lasso" spanned 29 episodes across all four seasons, where she became known for her vibrant personality, humor, and unwavering support for the game. Her exit marks the end of Badland's time on the series. "Ted Lasso's" Season 4 finale is scheduled to premiere on October 7.