Believe

The Untold Story Behind Ted Lasso, the Show That Kicked Its Way into Our Hearts

By: Jeremy Egner

Narrated by: Christopher Grove

The definitive book on the TV show Ted Lasso, written by New York Times journalist and editor Jeremy Egner, celebrating the show’s improbable rise and cultural impact while never losing sight of the heart, friendship, and passion that have made it an enduring favorite for the ages

When Ted Lasso first aired in 2020, nobody—including those who had worked on it—knew how a show inspired by an ad, centered around soccer, filled mostly with unknown actors, and led by a wondrously mustached “nice guy” would be received. Now, eleven Emmys and one Peabody Award later, it’s safe to say that the show’s status as a pop culture phenomenon is secure. And, for the first time, New York Times television editor Jeremy Egner explores the creation, production, and potent legacy of Ted Lasso.

Drawing on dozens of interviews from key cast, creators, and more, Believe takes readers from the very first, silly NBC Premier League commercial to the pitch to Apple executives, then into the show’s writer’s room, through the brilliant international casting, and on to the unforgettable set and locations of the show itself.

Egner approaches his reporting as a journalist and as a cultural critic, but also with an affection and admiration fans will appreciate, carefully and humorously telling Ted Lasso’s story of teamwork, of hidden talent, of a group of friends looking around at the world’s increasingly nasty discourse and deciding that maybe simple decency still had the power to bring us together—a story about what happens when you dare to believe.


* This audiobook edition includes a downloadable PDF with the Source Notes from the printed book.

like a Ted Lasso reunion

Not sure this would interest those who did not watch the show. Enjoyed the memories and viewpoints of so many of the cast and people behind the show.

The Ted Lasso World is captivating

A good audio book listen, especially if you watched and loved the show. We plan to re-watch as a result of this.

What you didn't know abiut Ted Lasso

I wish more shows/movies had the behind the scenes books like this. You always wonder how things went on behind the camera but this reminded me what a wonderful story Ted Lasso was.

I really enjoyed it but....

I had just re-viewed all three seasons of Ted Lasso and enjoyed it even more the second time. When I saw the title come up in Audible, I couldn't wait to hear the back stories. However, the thing that drove me nuts throughout the book was the continual references to the actors, their roles and the seasons. i.e. "Juno Temple, Keeley Jones, seasons 1-3". After hearing this for all the characters every time they were mentioned was a distraction and, honestly, annoying. I understand that the artists need to be acknowledged for their work, but couldn't it have been shortened a tad? i.e. "Juno Temple, Keeley Jones". Also, It would've been nice to have the actual actors reflect in their own voices about their roles. Again, I understand that might not have been do-able for many reasons. Despite the distractions, it was a fun read. Kudos to Jeremy Egner.

Believe in Ted Lasso

It was great to learn the backstory and hear from the actors, creators, and everyone involved. He captured all of the people, and podcasts that us Tedheads listened to and wanted to hear more of. It was great. Thank you for another resource for the show.