What to watch tonight: Hannah Waddingham returns as one of the greatest characters in TV history in Ted Lasso season 4
Unapologetic optimism and a big dose of wholesome - Ted Lasso is back to save us all from a world that seems gloomy
When Ted Lasso departed from our screens in 2023 after three incredible seasons, it truly felt like the end.
As you'd expect from a show that put optimism and hope front and centre, the characters audiences grew to adore across 35 episodes were given proper and positive send offs, wrapped neatly in a bow.
That's why, when rumours of a surprise season 4 return began circulating, I instantly believed they were just that - terrible lies to instil false hope in me that some of the greatest characters in TV history were actually coming back, that would then see me fall into a state of abject despair when I found out it wasn't true.
But I really should "believe", because here we are, with season 4 genuinely making its Apple TV debut on August 5. If that doesn't smell like potential for some excellent feel good viewing, I don't know what does - settle down for TV's happiest homecoming.
If you haven't heard amid the furore of media attention surrounding Ted Lasso season 4, this time the moustachioed, endlessly cheerful coach is persuaded back to the UK from Kansas to coach Richmond FC's women's team.
While this means none of the actors formerly playing the men's team will be returning, it does mean the introduction of the brilliant and versatile Tanya Reynolds (Sex Education, The Other Bennet Sister) as coach Alice Chilton, and a whole new cast of female players to get to know.
And while they perfectly fill the void left by Nate (Nick Mohammed,) and the likes of Dani Rojas (Cristo Fernández,) Sam Obisanya (Toheeb Jimoh) and Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster,) the 'other' dream team will be back in their entirety.
Yes, this means the inimitable Hannah Waddingham will be back as Rebecca, one of the greatest and unapologetically strongest female characters ever seen on screen.
Also currently flying high in the highly bingeable Ride or Die, I am absolutely here to see what else the fantastic actress can bring to Rebecca, while her career outside of the show is on fire.
Juno Temple is also back as Keeley, bringing a sisterly energy to the unlikely friendship between her and Rebecca, and chemistry that spills off the screen into real life - the pair are seemingly totally enamoured with each other when the cameras stop rolling.
Jeremy Swift is back as Leslie, and Brett Goldstein brings gruff and kindliness in equal measures, reprising his role as Roy Kent.
Would it be too much to ask for Roy and Keeley to get back together this season? It was the only bow left slightly knotted at the end of season 3, with Roy working on himself in therapy sessions with Dr Sharon, and Keeley focussing on building her PR career.
Normally I'd be all for a woman prioritising everything but romantic relationships, but somehow feel the need to make an exception for Keeley and Roy.
While season 3 did come under fire for being "too twee" and overly saccharine in its positivity, I'm hoping season 4 will be the same.
Why? Because the world is dark and gloomy, and Ted Lasso gives us wholesomeness in droves, and a bright light in this often dark place.
With the manosphere creeping into every aspect of our lives, the show also offers the perfect antidote to toxic masculinity. Ted shows us it's ok for men to be vulnerable, curious and empathetic.
When boys don't have a clue what positive friendships look like, Ted guides the way to show what to aim for. If the show is toxic positivity then I'm all over it - this is the joyful escape we all need right now.
Ted Lasso airs on Apple TV from August 5.
