Ted Lasso, the immensely popular series on Apple TV+, has garnered praise from prominent LGBTQ+ advocates for its significant portrayal of gay male professional footballers. The show’s third season introduced a compelling coming-out storyline for Colin Hughes (Billy Harris), a fictional AFC Richmond player. Against the backdrop of increasing LGBTQ+ visibility in football and ongoing discussions about inclusivity in the sport, Ted Lasso’s treatment of this taboo topic has resonated with fans and advocates alike.
Breaking Barriers in Queer Sports Representation
The representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in sports has been a long-standing issue, and Ted Lasso’s portrayal of a gay footballer contributes to breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes. Erin Williams, sports engagement manager for LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall, commended the show’s advanced approach compared to other programs. Williams expressed her excitement at seeing queer representation in sports, emphasizing the ongoing importance of representation.
Colin’s Coming Out Journey
In episode three of Ted Lasso’s third season, viewers witness Colin’s secret relationship with Michael (Sam Liu) and his subsequent coming out to journalist Trent Crimm (James Lance) and his supportive team. The season finale features a poignant moment when Colin shares a kiss with his partner on the football field, symbolizing acceptance and visibility. The genuine portrayal of Colin’s journey resonated with audiences and sparked conversations about the complexities of a footballer’s life beyond the field.
Trent Crimm: A Friend and Mentor
Trent Crimm’s character in Ted Lasso, portrayed as a football journalist, plays a pivotal role in Colin’s coming out storyline. The portrayal of Trent as a supportive friend and mentor is well-received by fans and advocates. Erin Williams noted that Trent’s evolution from a quiet journalist to someone capable of empathy and understanding aligns with her own experiences as a mentor and coach. This nuanced portrayal avoids the trope of a ruthless journalist, offering a refreshing perspective on the complexities of individuals’ identities.
The Impact of Ted Lasso’s Representation
While Ted Lasso’s creators have confirmed the end of the series, the impact of its representation continues to resonate. The storyline surrounding Colin and Trent’s journey has received widespread acclaim, prompting fans to express their desire for a spin-off focusing on their characters. Jack King, a TV and film writer, commended the forthrightness and honesty of the conversations between Colin and Trent, highlighting the significance of this story unfolding in the context of current conversations about inclusivity.
Billy Harris’s Perspective
Billy Harris, the actor who portrays Colin Hughes, expressed his enthusiasm for the gay storyline in an interview with British GQ. As a football fan himself, he recognized the importance of showcasing the personal lives of athletes beyond their time on the field. Harris emphasized that athletes have identities and stories that deserve recognition, and he praised Ted Lasso for its role in shedding light on this aspect of their lives.
