Actor James Lance, known for his role as Trent Crimm in Ted Lasso, recently opened up about his emotional reaction upon learning that he would have a more prominent role in season 3. Lance, who played a skeptical journalist gradually won over by Ted's coaching style, expressed his gratitude and excitement about the opportunity. In a conversation with Variety, Lance shared that a discussion with Jason Sudeikis, who plays Ted, provided further understanding of Trent's character and resonated with him on a personal level. Here are Lance's comments:
In Season 3, Trent begins to let go of his guard and embrace his role in the game. As James Lance, I had the opportunity to spend more time on set with the cast, transitioning from being a newcomer to feeling like part of the team. The character's emotional journey mirrored my own as we both navigated the complexities of our respective roles. After shooting the second press room scene, I had a conversation with Jason Sudeikis in the car park. I shared my belief that Trent's upbringing with a tough father shaped his personality. Jason then revealed that the series revolves around the theme of bad dads. This brief but profound exchange had a profound impact on me and Trent Crimm's trajectory. It brought me to tears, and I immediately shared it with my wife, who also became emotional. While we didn't have all the details, we knew that plans were in place for Trent Crimm, which meant there were opportunities for me as an actor. This realization opened up a world of possibilities, making it the ultimate playground for any actor.
How Trent Became One Of The Best Parts Of Ted Lasso Season 3
Despite the mixed reception of Ted Lasso season 3, Trent Crimm consistently stood out as one of the show's highlights in its final episodes. His inclusion as a team member, while simultaneously documenting their journey through writing a book, added depth to his character and allowed him to provide unique insights that others overlooked. This also led to the formation of genuine connections with the rest of the team, further enhancing the overall narrative.
Trent's role in season 3 expanded significantly due to his realization that Colin was gay. As a fellow gay man, Trent provided unwavering support and guidance to Colin throughout his journey of coming out, establishing a heartwarming and fulfilling storyline. This portrayal of LGBTQIA+ representation on television was a notable step forward. It was crucial that Trent never forced Colin to come out or exposed his sexuality, but he made it clear that he would always be there for him.
Trent's presence within the Diamond Dogs also resulted in a more positive and open-minded outlook. In his book, "The Richmond Way," Trent skillfully encapsulated his personal growth while capturing the essence of what made the AFC Richmond team exceptional. Unlike other shows where similar characters might have been written off after gaining Ted's trust or acting righteously by the end of season 2, Ted Lasso chose to give Trent a more substantial role, which ultimately became one of the standout aspects of season 3.
Source: Variety