‘Ted Lasso’ Star Hannah Waddingham Says She Has an “Ongoing Love-Hate Relationship” with Jason Sudeikis – Here’s Why

Hannah Waddingham spoke openly about her working relationship with Jason Sudeikis on Ted Lasso, especially how the writing process often changes on set and leads to constant script adjustments.

Waddingham explained that the way Sudeikis works is very hands-on and flexible. She said the scripts are not always fixed before filming starts. Instead, changes often happen during rehearsals or even while scenes are being shot. She described it as a process where actors and writers adjust lines and timing based on what feels right in the moment.

Talking about this dynamic, she said, “There’s always going to be a bit of give-and-take within a scene, because of the nature of how Sudeikis works. He hears it in the room, and then we tweak.”

She added that this constant shifting can sometimes make the process unpredictable, but also part of what shapes the show’s final tone. Waddingham did not describe it as purely negative. Instead, she framed it as something that requires flexibility from everyone involved.

She also spoke more directly about her relationship with Sudeikis while working on the series. She said, “With that boy, you’ve got to roll with the punches. He and I have an ongoing love-hate relationship that he changes it last minute.” This comment reflects both frustration and familiarity, showing that their working style is intense but built on long-term collaboration.

The remarks come in the context of ongoing production conversations around Ted Lasso, especially as the series has continued to evolve after its earlier seasons. Season 3 was delayed in part due to production issues, including reports of extensive rewrites from Sudeikis, who co-created the show and also stars as the main character.

Despite the changes and delays, Waddingham made it clear that she remains closely connected to the show and its cast. She described the working environment as one that depends heavily on teamwork and trust, even when last-minute script changes happen.

She also emphasized that this process is part of how the show stays natural and responsive. Scenes are not treated as locked text, but something that can be adjusted based on performance and direction during filming.

Waddingham’s role as Rebecca Welton has become one of the central performances in Ted Lasso, and she has been part of the series since its debut in 2020. The show itself became one of the most-watched streaming originals in 2023, according to Nielsen data, which reported over 283 million viewing hours.

While discussing the series more broadly, she highlighted the strong working bond among the cast. She said they remain in regular contact even outside filming, describing the group as close and consistent.

The Variety interview presents Waddingham’s comments as part of a larger look at her career, but her remarks about Sudeikis stand out for how clearly they describe the unpredictable writing process behind Ted Lasso.

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