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The Diamond Dogs are back… and they are about to be analyzed.
Fresh off 20 Emmy nominations, the hit comedy “Ted Lasso” returns for its second season on AppleTV + on July 23.
Season 1 followed Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis), a golden retriever of a man who is a coach of a British Premier League football team, although he has no knowledge of the sport. As the season progresses, the American wins against the cynical British team and even its intriguing owner, Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham).
Season 2 shakes things up by introducing new character Sharon (Sarah Niles), a sports psychologist who was hired to work with the team. His pragmatic attitude is at odds with Ted’s “aw shucks” charm, and his presence gives the group dynamics a touch of energy.
Niles has a knack for acting in acclaimed shows, having also starred in HBO’s “I May Destroy You” and the British comedy “Catastrophe”, in addition to a career on stage, in productions such as ” Cleopatra “(2014 in Stratford Upon Avon and the Public Theater New York). Here, the British actress chats with The Post to join the famous show.
Have you been a lifelong Londoner?
Yes, I spent time in Manchester and Liverpool because why not, but I was mostly in London.
How does it feel to join a show at a time when it is inundated with praise?
It’s just awesome. I was not familiar with this show when I was asked to audition for it. Many of my friends had seen it before, but I hadn’t. Then I looked at it and I was like, “Oh, my God, that’s why everyone’s talking about it! During filming we kept hearing about all the nominations and awards – it was so exciting.
What kind of atmosphere did that lend to the ensemble?
The energy was good from the start. It’s such an enjoyable show and everyone was so happy to resume filming, considering everything that happened during the lockdown. Everyone was delighted to be working – and working on a great project and an uplifting show.
Sharon is a pretty serious character, was it hard not to laugh?
In a way, because I’m a bit clumsy, I like to have a bit of fun. But I had to be in control and stay calm and straight.
How does it feel to be the new person to join this world – intimidating? Fun?
It’s a bit of both, really. I had to come in and chat with Jason and he’s so approachable. He immediately put me at ease. Everyone was encouraging. Brendan Hunt is the one where it’s hard not to laugh, he has this straight face after delivering something, and Jason is so mean. I love all the players, Dani Rojas [played by Cristo Fernández] – I have a special place in my heart for him. And beautiful Hannah [Waddingham] is so fiery and strong – and tall! And Juno [Temple] has so much nerve.
Did you do anything in particular to prepare yourself to play a sports psychologist?
I’ve watched a few documentaries, mostly American – I’ve watched Michael Jordan’s and I find it fascinating, the ability of the mind to work for the benefit of the athlete.
You’ve been on quite a few very animated shows, between this one and “Catastrophe” and “I May Destroy You”.
They all have the truth and they are so brave in their writing. I’m a fan of Micaela [Coel] and would always support any work she does. I was really humbled that I got to be a part of this [show]. All of these stories make a difference. They’re at the forefront of something, like change, and they’re really brave. Even though “I May Destroy You” isn’t a comedy like “Ted Lasso” and “Catastrophe,” they all have heart and truth.
Why do you think this show resonated so much with audiences?
I think most of the time it happened at the right time, because of the situation we were all in, politically and with the pandemic, and the unknown – just to have something full of heart and truth and of positivity. What’s so wonderful is that the show isn’t afraid to discuss the conflicts and struggles people go through. You see this upbeat, upbeat character Ted, and later you see him have a panic attack, you realize he’s struggling with things. I have the impression that there are many facets to all the characters.
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