So, Ted Lasso is great, and doesn't need any more defending than it already gets, but if you're late to it, I want to point out that it's great in a pretty unique, and very satisfying way. That is because it constantly subverts the "Idiot Plot."

Roger Ebert popularized the term "Idiot Plot:"
"Any plot containing problems that would be solved instantly if all of the characters were not idiots."

The idiot plot problem shows up on television cosntantly, as consistently creating interesting conflict on a weekly,

or binge scheduled show is a daunting task. My wife enjoys the show Parenthood, which is nothing but Idiot Plot after Idiot Plot (Joel and Julia, uggggh) as chracters fluctuate wildly in underlying motivation and intelligence.

It's infuriating. Ted Lasso excels at taking situations that could very well become "idiot plot" scenarios and instead having the character resolve issues like mature adults. I liked the show right away, but I started loving in during Epsiode 7

When they go on the road to play Everton. Rebecca's friend Flo, who she hasn't seen in years, tracks them down and hangs out. Injecting an old friend into a scenario is often idiot plot gold as old and new friends clash, and it looks like this episode is going that way,

especially when Ted sleeps with Flo. It seems to set up awkardness with Rebecca, and maybe potential problems for Ted and his soon to be ex-wife. Instead, none of that happens. Ted discusses the night with Nate and Beard and they decide

that everyone is an adult, and Ted had fun, and there is no conflict here, and actually this is all fine. It's so refreshing, and relieving to have characters actually act in such a fashion. Ted Lasso the character is usually described as having incredible optimism,

and that's true, but that could also be grating if handled improperly, Ted is optimistic, but more than that, he's mature. When Beard gets mad at him for not caring about winning enough (Beard is clearly correct), Ted doesn't storm off, he listens and realizes Beard is right.

Even side characters act in responsible manners. Roy and Jamie could have fistfights over Keeley multiple times, but they often end up sitting and talking at Keeley's dining room table instead. Even ostensible bad guy Rupert leaves his dart match loss to Ted

like a real person would, without swearing revenge or anything of the like. Ted Lasso repeatedly writes itself into would-be idiot plots to repeatedly show that there is a better way, resulting in joy instead of stress. The show has plenty of conflict, and doesn't lack for

a driving narrative. The great feat of Ted Lasso is it keeps you cheering for everyone, because you understand where everyone is coming from. If you find yourself cringing at most dramas, or embarassed for the characters you are watching, Ted Lasso was made for you.

Ted Lasso rules.