Taylor and I drove from Bayshore, Long Island bright and early to Stamford, Connecticut, eager for the adventure ahead. Rather than enduring the long drive entirely by road, we opted to take the ferry to cut down on some driving time. As we boarded, the gentle hum of the boat, the crisp sea breeze, and the anticipation of the day ahead made for an unforgettable ride.
It was a picturesque July morning as we embarked on a journey from Long Island to Connecticut, crossing the waters via ferry.
Awaiting us at our destination was none other than Jason Sudeikis, the beloved actor known for his role as Ted Lasso. His easygoing demeanor and signature charm set the perfect tone for the day’s adventure.
Our mission? To deliver the proper classic Mini that they rented from us (Portrait Cars) for what would become an unforgettable moment in the now hit show, Ted Lasso. There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the Austin Mini—its compact frame, its vintage appeal, and its unmistakable character. It was the perfect fit for the quirky, heartfelt world of Ted Lasso.
The highlight of the day was watching Jason, fully immersed in his Ted Lasso persona, climb into the tiny Mini alongside Coach. The sight of the two of them squeezed into the classic car was both hilarious and endearing, a moment that would later become iconic in the series. With his signature wit, Jason affectionately dubbed the car his “Mini Bradley Cooper,” adding an extra layer of humor to an already delightful scene.
For those unfamiliar, Ted Lasso is an Apple TV+ series that has captivated audiences with its warmth, humor, and unwavering optimism. The show follows Ted, an American football coach who is unexpectedly hired to manage AFC Richmond, an English soccer team, despite having little experience with the sport. What starts as a seemingly ridiculous premise evolves into a heartfelt journey of personal growth, teamwork, and resilience. With its sharp writing, unforgettable characters, and inspiring messages about kindness and belief, Ted Lasso has become a cultural phenomenon, winning multiple Emmy Awards and resonating with viewers worldwide.
Interestingly, Ted Lasso didn’t start as a television show. The character first appeared in a series of comedic promotional videos for NBC Sports in 2013, created to introduce American audiences to the English Premier League. Jason Sudeikis, along with his writing partners, developed Ted as a lovable but clueless coach who humorously struggled with the nuances of soccer. The sketches were an unexpected hit, resonating with viewers far beyond their original purpose. This success led Sudeikis, alongside co-creators Bill Lawrence, Joe Kelly, and Brendan Hunt, to expand the concept into a fully developed TV series. When Ted Lasso debuted on Apple TV+ in 2020, it quickly became a global sensation, praised for its uplifting tone, witty humor, and heartfelt storytelling.
As the day unfolded, it became clear that this wasn’t just about filming a scene; it was about capturing the essence of Ted Lasso—a show that blends humor, heart, and an unwavering sense of optimism. Watching Jason bring his character to life in that little Mini was a testament to the magic that makes Ted Lasso so special.
Looking back, that ferry ride, the laughter, and the charm of a classic Mini all came together to create a memory that, much like the show itself, will remain timeless.