‘Ted Lasso’ doesn’t even need soccer with flooring performances like this

For a while now, some of social media’s worst and dullest have been moaning that drama-comedy Ted Lasso is leaning too far into the dramatic elements of its premise. However, the show has always been more about characters and relationships than the sport of soccer — as much as it gets the culture and fervor around the game in the U.K. absolutely spot-on, so that criticism does ring quite hollow. And, for every angry voice on Twitter annoyed that they only got to see five minutes of Richmond game time in a recent episode, there are dozens of others being absolutely stunned by the brilliant performances of its actors — exemplified this week by Hannah Waddingham, who plays Rebecca.

In a stirring, beautifully shot scene, the actress put in a memorable monologue where she was both powerful and emotional, managing to convey just how much the game of soccer means to so many people in the world, and showing her own character growth. The scene takes place during a meeting where Rebecca and several other billionaire club owners are discussing a new Super League, a concept that nearly took hold in the soccer world last year before being rebuffed after a groundswell of protest from fans, governments, and footballing/soccer governing bodies, and Waddingham absolutely captivates as she tears apart the idea, while reminding her wealthy (in-show) audience just what the sport is all about. She even manages to humanize the series villain and her ex-husband, Rupert.

Rebecca’s growth as a character has been absolutely astounding, and after a near setback at the beginning of this season, it seems she’s finally on the way to being the absolute boss we know she can be. Of course, this isn’t too surprising, as the writers of the feel-good Apple TV show have always made it clear that the characters they’ve made us love will end up reaching their potential, or at least doing a darn good job of it. And, in this scene, we really saw that come to fruition with Rebecca.

There were plenty of other excellent performances and moments of development in “International Break,” which almost felt like a finale. From the redemption of Wonder Kid Nate (or reNatesance), to hardman Roy finally admitting his feelings for his ex-girlfriend, a lot was tied up in this episode, meaning the last two in the season (and likely series) will probably be more focused on Ted and Richmond themselves. And, as sad as we are to see the coach from Kentucky depart from our screens, with more memorable moments like these lined up, it’s certain to be a great goodbye.