Unraveling Inspiration: How ‘Ted Lasso’ Draws from ‘The Wizard of Oz’

Unraveling Inspiration: How ‘Ted Lasso’ Draws from ‘The Wizard of Oz’

In the world of television, it’s not uncommon for creators to pay homage to classic films or stories that have shaped their artistic vision. One of the most surprising and delightful revelations in recent years comes from Brett Goldstein, the star of Apple TV+’s hit series ‘Ted Lasso’. In a conversation about the show’s inspirations, Goldstein shared an intriguing connection between ‘Ted Lasso’ and the iconic 1939 film ‘The Wizard of Oz’. This revelation provides an enriching perspective on the creative process behind ‘Ted Lasso’, shedding light on the deeper layers of storytelling that have captivated audiences around the world.

The ‘Wizard of Oz’ Influence on ‘Ted Lasso’

At first glance, ‘Ted Lasso’—a heartwarming, sports-centric comedy about an American football coach managing a British soccer team—may seem worlds apart from ‘The Wizard of Oz’, a magical tale about a young girl’s journey to a fantastical land. However, Goldstein’s insight invites viewers to delve into the underlying thematic parallels that connect these two beloved pieces of storytelling.

One of the most notable commonalities between ‘Ted Lasso’ and ‘The Wizard of Oz’ is their shared emphasis on the hero’s journey. Both stories follow characters who find themselves in unfamiliar territory, yet their unwavering optimism, courage, and belief in others guide them through challenges. In ‘The Wizard of Oz’, Dorothy is transported to the colorful land of Oz, where she encounters a series of fantastical characters and ultimately discovers the importance of believing in oneself. Similarly, in ‘Ted Lasso’, Ted, an American coach with no prior soccer experience, arrives in England with little more than a positive attitude and a belief in the power of kindness to transform those around him.

The Role of Mentorship and Personal Growth

Another connection between the two stories lies in the theme of mentorship. In ‘The Wizard of Oz’, Dorothy is guided by several key figures, including Glinda the Good Witch, who provides her with wisdom and encouragement. Similarly, Ted Lasso acts as a mentor to his team, particularly to players like Jamie Tartt and Roy Kent, both of whom experience significant personal growth throughout the series.

• Dorothy and Glinda: Glinda, like Ted, believes in the potential of others and gently nudges them toward self-discovery.
• Ted and His Team: Ted’s optimism and belief in his players help them unlock their own potential, transforming both their soccer careers and personal lives.

The concept of personal growth and transformation is central to both narratives. While Dorothy’s journey teaches her that “there’s no place like home,” Ted’s journey with AFC Richmond teaches his team—and himself—that the true value of success lies in relationships, personal integrity, and the willingness to grow.

Character Archetypes: From the Tin Man to Roy Kent

In both ‘The Wizard of Oz’ and ‘Ted Lasso’, each character embodies a specific archetype that plays a critical role in their respective journeys. In ‘The Wizard of Oz’, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion represent the qualities of heart, brains, and courage, respectively—traits that they come to realize they already possess. In a similar way, the characters of ‘Ted Lasso’ also reflect distinct archetypes, each contributing to the team’s evolution.

• The Tin Man & Roy Kent: Just as the Tin Man seeks a heart, Roy Kent—once a hardened and cynical soccer player—learns to open up and embrace vulnerability.
• The Scarecrow & Jamie Tartt: Like the Scarecrow, Jamie initially believes he lacks intelligence or emotional depth, but through Ted’s mentorship, he uncovers his capacity for empathy and growth.
• The Cowardly Lion & Sam Obisanya: Sam, initially unsure of his own worth, finds his courage both on and off the field, mirroring the Lion’s personal transformation.

The way these characters evolve mirrors the transformations of their ‘Oz’ counterparts, reinforcing the timeless appeal of these archetypes. Through mentorship and self-reflection, both groups discover strengths they didn’t know they possessed.

The Power of Positive Thinking: Optimism as a Superpower

Perhaps the most prominent similarity between ‘Ted Lasso’ and ‘The Wizard of Oz’ lies in the overarching theme of optimism. Ted Lasso’s unshakeable belief that “doing the right thing is never the wrong thing” is the cornerstone of his leadership. Similarly, Dorothy’s journey in ‘The Wizard of Oz’ is driven by her belief that she can return home, no matter the obstacles in her way.

Both stories highlight the transformative power of a positive mindset. In the world of ‘Ted Lasso’, positivity becomes a force for change, not just for Ted but for the entire team. In ‘The Wizard of Oz’, the characters’ optimism allows them to conquer their personal fears and insecurities. This optimistic approach is not just a narrative device; it speaks to a broader cultural shift toward the importance of mental resilience and the belief that challenges can be overcome through kindness, perseverance, and faith in oneself.

Exploring the Legacy of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ in Modern Media

Goldstein’s revelation invites a deeper exploration of how ‘The Wizard of Oz’ continues to influence modern media, particularly in terms of character development and narrative structure. The 1939 film has inspired countless films, TV shows, and books, with its themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery resonating across generations.

‘Ted Lasso’ represents a new iteration of the ‘Oz’ archetype, offering a contemporary take on the classic hero’s journey. It’s a reminder that the core principles of human nature—empathy, resilience, and the pursuit of personal growth—remain relevant in today’s storytelling landscape. As audiences continue to embrace shows like ‘Ted Lasso’, the enduring influence of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of writers, directors, and creators.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Power of Optimism

In the end, the connection between ‘Ted Lasso’ and ‘The Wizard of Oz’ highlights the enduring power of storytelling to reflect the human experience. Both narratives emphasize the importance of hope, mentorship, and personal growth. Whether through Dorothy’s journey to Oz or Ted’s coaching journey at AFC Richmond, these stories remind us that the ultimate power lies not in external victories, but in the internal transformations that shape our lives.

For more insights on Ted Lasso’s creative influences, check out Apple TV+’s official page for exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

To explore the broader impact of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ on popular culture, visit this encyclopedic entry on ‘The Wizard of Oz’.

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