Ted Lasso Season 4 has killed off a major character.
Episode 9, titled "Mae Rides the Bus," ends the run of Mae, the longtime owner of the Crown & Anchor pub.
Mae, played by Annette Badland, was a vocal supporter of the Lady Greyhounds. Her sudden collapse came during celebrations after Richmond's key victory that secured their promotion.
The episode did not show her fall directly. Fellow supporters instead discovered her on the ground and called for help.
In Season 4, Mae had taken on an expanded role. She assisted Higgins in investigating team shares and bonded with Ted's son, Henry.
Tribute Card Placement Draws Criticism
Immediately after the fictional death scene, the episode showed an in memoriam tribute card for actor Anthony Head.
Head played former Richmond FC owner Rupert Manion in the first three seasons.
Head died on June 1, 2026, from complications due to pneumonia.
Placing the tribute card directly after an onscreen character death marked a distinct formatting choice for the comedy-drama.
The series had previously addressed real-life loss and mental health themes in earlier seasons through the backstory of Ted's father.
The narrative decision and its placement alongside a real-life cast tribute have sparked criticism.
