‘Ted Lasso’ Recap: ‘Make Rebecca Great Again’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 107 of ‘Ted Lasso’.
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One particular element that is truly fascinating about the important decisions that we make in life, is how they are viewed. For often times, our friends and family will applaud the call we’ve made or are about to make; simply because the actions we are about to undertake seem quite brave in nature. Because change isn’t easy and sticking to it takes a certain level of resolve that so many believe they are incapable of. But therein lies the big surprise when it comes to change, in that, while others see us as some kind of a hero for embarking upon a brave and challenging journey; deep down we feel quite differently about the decision we are about to make. Simply because change is, in reality, quite the terrifying experience when all is said and done. 

For we are creatures of habit, the kind that work hard to obtain a routine that brings us a sense of comfort and calm. So, when we feel the need to upend that status quo, fear settles in and it leaves us out of sorts and nervous as to what our lives are going to look like without those familiar elements surrounding us Which is why some folks back way from the change they initially wanted to make, because the horrifying potential of the unknown was simply too much to bear. But change is critical to life, and without it we cannot grow and try new things, and if by chance we stick to our guns and execute this daring plan, well we might find newfound growth and a happiness that we never thought we were capable of experiencing. And it just so happens that this all-important moment, where one has to decide to go through with a new beginning, served as the focal point for the next episode of Ted Lasso.

Because ‘Make Rebecca Great Again’ saw our intrepid coach staring down the finality of a big decision he made a couple of weeks ago; his divorce from Michelle. And while he certainly knew deep down that letting her go was the right decision since the love in their marriage had all but disappeared, the reality of letting that love go, shook him to his core. For this meant that his dream of staying with Michelle forever and having that perfect family life, was about to evaporate before his eyes, leaving him on a path unknown and the resulting fear that came from that, began to sneak into his everyday life. Something that could not have come at a worse time. For the team was on the road and about to face an opponent they hadn’t beaten in sixty years and they needed some kind of inspiration from their leader. 

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But Ted simply couldn’t find the words or focus for that matter. For all he could think about was the unknown and that led to more surprises from this normally sure-footed man. Because Ted got drunk, and even took out his frustrations on Nate when the opportunity arose and well, that motivated him to take a step back and try something new for a change in regard to the team. For if he couldn’t focus and properly lead this squad, then perhaps it was time to let the passion of others shine through and inspire this squad in its hour of need. Which is why he let Nate offer up some unique criticisms of the team, so they could see some fixable flaws before taking the field and wouldn’t you know it? Letting go and trusting in others and the process, paid off in spades since AFC Richmond dug deep and found a way to win and that surprise, along with some unexpected kindness from someone who went through something similar, allowed for Ted to finally find his way.

As it turns out, that kindness came forth from an unexpected source; Rebecca Welton. For while Ted was fighting his fear of change, she was reflecting upon the wonder of how much better her life had become for making the same decision. An epiphany that came forth with a little support from Keeley and her best friend Flo. Since they were quick to remind her of the progress she made by making the tough decision to toss Rupert aside, and that allowed for her to finally find a little joy in life again and embrace her accomplishments and her growth. And when Ted had an outright panic attack over his struggles during a night out on the town, she took the time to comfort him and subtlety inform him everything is going to be okay in the end, and that he will find happiness again, and that allowed for Ted to finally bid farewell to his wife and open himself up to new opportunities. Since Flo showed up at his door in the middle of the night. 

If anything, this was just another pleasant surprise storytelling wise. Simply because this episode really did do a phenomenal job of expressing to the audience the sheer terror that we experience before embarking on a new path, and the joy that we find when we’ve finally done something to ensure our happiness and that makes this episode quite inspiring when all is said and done. Because this is the kind of story that someone in Ted’s shoes can find strength from and that’s simply incredible. Since a sports show has no business offering up this kind of life lesson, but this series continues to be unconventional in every single sense of the word. But all lessons aside, the other reason this episode stands out is because it also featured some endearing and powerful performances from Jason Sudeikis and Hannah Waddingham and without their grounded and nuanced acting in this story, none of the powerful moments present here would have any gravity and in the end, this is a story that will stay with us for some time. Because Jason’s beautifully nuanced script simply reminds us to 'do the thing', and enjoy what comes next and that is a message that always resonates, and it also leaves one wondering what other magnificent life lessons this show is going to send our way before this incredible first season comes to a close. Until next time.

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