How ‘Ted Lasso’ Paid Tribute to Anthony Head in Season 4

The penultimate episode of Ted Lasso Season 4 delivered a heartbreaking revelation in its final moments, but a twist surrounding a beloved character isn’t the only thing likely to make fans shed tears. Warning: Spoilers for Ted Lasso Season 4 Episode 9!

If you haven’t tuned into “Mae Rides the Bus” yet, now is your time to turn back…

As those who did watch know, the pub owner traveled with Ted (Jason Sudeikis) and the women’s team to Bristol for an away game, but she did not make it back as she collapsed and died in the match’s final moments, coinciding with the Lady Greyhounds’ fourth goal. It’s a bittersweet balance as Mae experiences her best day with the ultimate cost.

But it also turns out that the episode’s shocking death was also used to memorialize one of the OG cast members with a touching dedication to late star Anthony Head. The actor, who died earlier this year, memorably portrayed the villainous Rupert, ex-husband to Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham).

Apple TV

After Rebecca reveals what happened to Mae following the team’s victory, the poignant moment was punctuated with a title card, “In Memory of Anthony Head.”

Head’s death occurred in June of this year, and the actor was 72 years old at the time. Along with his role as Rupert, Head was best known for his work in shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and most recently appeared in Prime Video‘s made-for-streaming flick, Upgraded, which was released in 2023.

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'Ted Lasso': Does Rupert Have an Evil Plan?

This latest episode of Ted Lasso also debunked the theory that Rupert was aiming to buy up stocks in A.F.C. Richmond, and it is, in fact, Zelda (Tracey Ullman) who is trying to scoop up the team for herself. Can she be stopped? Fans will have to tune into the Season 4 finale to find out.

In the meantime, let us know what you thought of the show’s dedication to Anthony Head in the comments section below, and stay tuned for more on Ted Lasso as this season continues to unfold.

Ted Lasso, Season 4, Wednesdays, Apple TV