Ted Lasso star Annette Badland reveals why Jason Sudeikis cast her as landlady Mae-Ruth Lawes-Entertainment – Metro

Annette Badland said Jason Sudeikis was heavily involved in the casting process (Picture: Apple TV / Mega)

Ted Lasso actor Annette Badland has opened up about her audition process with Jason Sudeikis for the Apple TV hit comedy ahead of season 3’s release.

The irrepressibly heartwarming drama follows small-time American soccer coach Ted (Jason) remain steadfastly optimistic while managing UK football team AFC Richmond.

Despite his inexperience, Ted eventually wins over the players, including the cocky Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster), and his boss Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham), who is navigating post-divorce life.

But that doesn’t mean everything in London is plain sailing with the much-anticipated third – and potentially final – season, appearing to deal with the fallout of Nate’s (Nick Mohammed) departure for rival West Ham United.

Always there to console Ted, however, is no-nonsense landlady Mae, played by Annette Badland, who told Metro.co.uk how she wound up managing his local watering hole The Crown and Anchor.

Mae, of course, is Richmond through and through and is always on hand for a natter when Ted drowns his sorrows or celebrate the team’s win at the d pub, which superfans can actually book for an Airbnb stay.

Ted Lasso has been a huge hit with viewers (Picture: Apple TV Plus)

Annette was cast as Mae in the firsts season of Ted Lasso (Picture: Airbnb)

Annette has been in Ted Lasso since the first season hit our screens back in 2020 and spoke to us about how Jason, 47, played a massive part in getting her the gig.

Speaking about the audition, she explained: ‘I don’t think we were doing self-tapes then, so I went in and went on camera. And [afterward] they said, “Yes, please.”‘

The Crown actor continued: ‘Jason, when I met him, said he selected me for that role because I looked into people’s eyes.

Mae is AFC Richmond through and through (Picture: Apple TV+ )

‘I guess that isn’t always the case with people or he wanted that directness for Mae.’

And Ted Lasso superfans may even get the chance to experience Mae’s ‘directness’ as Annette will be hosting an Airbnb stay at The Prince’s Head in Richmond, where the drama is filmed.

Airbnb will be transforming the pub into a makeshift hotel on 23, 24 and 25 October and up to four guests will be able to book a one-night stay for only £11 a night (plus taxes and fees).

The Doctor Who star told us that her schedule permitting she hopes to be there in person, calling the stay a ‘terrific idea.’

She added: ‘You open the door and there’s Richmond Green outside and it will be autumn. It will look absolutely fantastic.

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‘And for the fans of the show, I think they’ll feel really a part of it. It’s a way to be part of the whole experience.’

Ted Lasso returns to Apple TV Plus on March 15.

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MORE : Ted Lasso superfans can actually book stay at iconic Richmond pub – and even meet legendary landlady Mae

MORE : Jason Sudeikis’ Ted Lasso set for AFC Richmond victory as Apple TV Plus drop first look trailer

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