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5 Reasons Dr. Jacob Actually Deserves all the Hate in Ted Lasso Season 3

5 Reasons Dr. Jacob Actually Deserves all the Hate in Ted Lasso Season 3
Image credit: Apple TV+

At the very least, one should not violate medical ethics.

Throughout its three seasons, Ted Lasso has introduced us to a colourful array of characters. Despite some disjointed storylines and episodes that occasionally veer into self-indulgence, it's the personal drama of each character that keeps viewers returning to the show every week.

However, not all characters are well-received, with some eliciting outright disdain from fans. A prime example is Dr. Jacob Bryanson, a family therapist who inexplicably decides to date and eventually marry his client Michelle, Ted's ex-wife. Here's a list of compelling reasons why Ted Lasso fans harbour a deep-seated dislike for him.

5. His licence should be revoked

A therapist should not have a relationship with a client. Period.

The American Counseling Association prohibits any romantic or sexual relationship with clients within five years of working with them. Jacob (does he even deserve to be referred to as a doctor?) completely ignored professional ethics, which a competent psychotherapist would never have done.

4. Why do other therapists tolerate it?

Jacob faces no repercussions for his actions. In the third episode of season 3, when Ted discloses that their family therapist is dating Michelle, Dr. Sharon Fieldstone, a sports psychologist, and Sassy, a child psychologist, express their dismay. Yet, they fail to report this ethical violation to the appropriate authorities. Why?

3. Who says this is his first affair with a client?

It's a legitimate concern. If Jacob can casually start dating Michelle, disregarding both medical ethics and common sense, what's stopping him from dumping her and romancing his next client?

2. He was just manipulating Ted!

During family therapy sessions with Michelle, Jacob places the entire blame for their issues squarely on Ted. This biased stance hinders effective and impartial therapy and manipulates Michelle into viewing Ted as the villain in the situation. How convenient for Jacob! He clearly took advantage of his position of authority in this setting.

1. Ted just shouldn't let it happen

Ted, the ever-optimistic protagonist, is too gentle to retaliate against such a toxic intrusion into his life. Yet, Jacob is effectively driving a wedge between Ted and Henry, causing potential trauma for both.

As the final season draws to a close, it's highly unlikely Jacob will redeem himself. Make sure to check out the next episode, which comes out today, on 17 May.