The penultimate episode of Apple TV’s Ted Lasso Season 4 delivers a powerful mix of triumph and heartbreak on and off the pitch. Titled “Mae Rides the Bus,” Episode 9 pushes the Lady Greyhounds into a high-stakes match against Bristol while weaving significant personal developments for the core cast. The episode culminates in a major athletic victory shadowed by sudden tragedy.
- AFC Richmond Secures a Crucial Turnaround Victory Against Bristol
- Tragedy Strikes Following the Final Whistle
- Subplots: Roy and Keeley’s Next Chapter and Zelda’s Betrayal
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What happens in Ted Lasso Season 4 Episode 9?
- Is Mae really dead in Ted Lasso Season 4?
- Who is buying up AFC Richmond’s shares?
- Do Roy and Keeley stay together?
AFC Richmond Secures a Crucial Turnaround Victory Against Bristol
AFC Richmond enters Episode 9 following a difficult losing streak. Without star attacker Gemma (Abbie Hern), who was benched due to a knee injury sustained in the previous outing, the team struggled to find any offensive rhythm. However, Episode 9 sees Gemma cleared to return, albeit with caution from coach Alice (Tanya Reynolds) and the medical staff.
The stakes escalate as Richmond travels to face Bristol in a match vital to their season standing. To boost morale, Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) invites longtime pub owner Mae Green (Annette Badland) to ride on the team bus. Mae, who always harbored childhood dreams of playing football, delivers an inspiring pre-match speech in the locker room that revitalizes the players’ belief in themselves.
Despite the motivational start, the first half proves challenging as Richmond falls behind. When Gemma is substituted in after suffering a minor hitch in her knee, she successfully converts a penalty shot to cut the deficit. Recognizing her physical limitations, Alice sits Gemma out for the second half, paving the way for players like Shannon (Shannon Hayes) and the Irish twins to step up. Supported by defensive adjustments-including goalkeeper Boots finally donning gloves-the Lady Greyhounds rally to secure a dramatic 3-2 victory.
Tragedy Strikes Following the Final Whistle
The celebration of Richmond’s massive away win is abruptly cut short. Mae, who chose to watch the match from the supporters’ stand rather than the VIP box with Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham), jumped in celebration during the team’s winning moments. Shortly after, it is revealed that Mae has suffered a sudden medical emergency and passed away.
As Ted celebrates with the jubilant players on the pitch, Rebecca pulls him aside to deliver the devastating news, breaking both of their hearts. The loss of Mae-a foundational pillar of the community and the unwavering number one supporter of AFC Richmond-leaves a massive emotional void as the show heads into its season finale.
Subplots: Roy and Keeley’s Next Chapter and Zelda’s Betrayal
Away from the stadium, significant relationship and boardroom developments unfold:
- Roy and Keeley: After weeks of growing closer, Keeley (Juno Temple) discovers she is pregnant. While she initially struggles with how to share the news, a chaotic journey to try and attend Roy’s (Brett Goldstein) Chelsea Wall of Legends honor leads to a heartfelt confession. Roy is overjoyed by the news, cementing their future together.
- The Corporate Threat: Behind the scenes, Leslie Higgins (Jeremy Swift) investigates a suspicious campaign to buy up club shares from minority owners. While suspicion initially falls on Rupert Mannion, it is ultimately revealed that Zelda Southport (Tracey Ullman)-whom Rebecca and Higgins trusted completely-is the mastermind orchestrating the takeover.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens in Ted Lasso Season 4 Episode 9?
Episode 9 features AFC Richmond securing a major victory against Bristol, Gemma returning from injury, Roy and Keeley expecting a child, and the tragic sudden death of beloved pub owner Mae.
Is Mae really dead in Ted Lasso Season 4?
Yes, Episode 9 concludes with Rebecca learning that Mae passed away suddenly after suffering a fatal collapse while celebrating Richmond’s victory.
Who is buying up AFC Richmond’s shares?
While Leslie initially suspects Rupert Mannion, it is revealed that Zelda Southport is quietly buying up the shares to gain control of the club.
Do Roy and Keeley stay together?
Yes. After Keeley discovers she is pregnant, she shares the news with Roy during an intimate moment, and his overwhelmingly positive reaction brings them closer than ever.
