The third season of Ted Lasso wrapped up with a lot of mixed feelings, healing, heart, and hopeful goodbyes. One character’s journey, though, still feels unfinished: Nate Shelley. Starting as Ted’s buddy, moving on to becoming a villain, Nate’s redemption has been messy and slow, just like actual life. A recent fan theory has brought hope to the minds of viewers that we could see Nate in season 4, in a better light.
The theory teases a full circle growth for Nate and explores the direction of the show after Ted’s departure. With rumors of a possible spinoff, the theory could be a fresh perspective on the narrative, which can maintain the emotional backbone of the show.
Nate as Brutus: A betrayal in Ted Lasso, much like Julius Caesar
Interesting fan theory compared Ted to Caesar and Nate to Brutus. Much like Brutus, Nate is also torn between personal ambition and loyalty, and chooses his interests. Ted, the beloved leader, inspires many, but living too closely with him becomes overbearing for Nate. Fans were quick to compare Nate to Brutus.
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Beginning as a trusted ally, Nate’s betrayal isn’t rooted in long-term malice. It is his internal struggle that leads him to do what he does. Much like Brutus, he is a mix of pride and insecurity, riddled with internal conflict, tired of living under the shadows of Ted.
Nick Mohammad in Ted Lasso (Credit: Apple TV+)
Adding this Shakespearean twist to the narrative offers a brilliant comparative analysis, marking Nate’s season 2 betrayal as a classic fall from grace. There are chances that season 4 of Ted Lasso brings forth a new chapter in the discussion, and Nate gets the chance to redeem himself, something that Brutus never got.
Could Nate be the next Ted Lasso?
Another popular fan theory suggests that Nate Shelley was being groomed to eventually take on the role of Ted, in a way that is like him, but not the same. If you think about it, Nate is also an outsider, he was also underestimated, awkward, and extremely unconventional in his approach. While Ted led with his heart and undying optimism, Nate’s leadership leaned towards the mind. He has been logical to the extent of seeming arrogant.
Nick Mohammad as Nate Shelley in Ted Lasso (Credit: Apple TV+)
His insecurity and need for validation led to his fallout with Ted. Even when he resigned from West Ham and reconciled with the team, it did not feel unnatural. Now that Ted has left Richmond, there is a need for a new tactical and emotional leader, but only if he’s ready for the task.
Related: How Apple TV+ Is Using Ted Lasso to Promote Owen Wilson’s ‘Stick’
His return to Nelson Road wouldn’t just be a moment of forgiveness, it would be a change in the narrative. It will also be an opportunity for Nate to potentially merge Ted’s philosophies with his own, becoming a mix of heart and mind. This sounds like a fresh direction for season 4, take Nate’s character arc in. Actor Nick Mohammad, who plays Nate Shelley, has been perfectly teasing fans about his return to season 4 (via Variety).
To sum it up, if there is indeed redemption for Nate in season 4, it needs to feel earned and justified, not a matter of fact and a need of the hour. It could be one of the greatest character arcs of all time if dealt with care and precision.
3 seasons of Ted Lasso are now available for streaming on Apple TV+(USA)
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