Ted Lasso S03E09 Spoilers: Can Rupert Become Any Worse? Apparently, He Can

Over its four-year run, Ted Lasso has introduced us to a colourful array of characters. However, arguably the most odious of them all is Rupert Mannion. As the former owner of AFC Richmond and the deceitful ex-husband of Rebecca Welton, he has been the show's principal antagonist since its inception.

Possessing an uncanny ability to manipulate other people, he corrupts them or, if met with resistance, ruins their lives. A prime example is his 'poaching' of Nate from AFC Richmond to coach his own team, a move many perceived as purely spiteful.

For the most part, Ted Lasso centres around improvement and transformation, with characters striving to become the best versions of themselves. However, as the show draws to a close with only four episodes remaining, many viewers are questioning whether Rupert has in him to become a better person. Could he instead descend into deeper malevolence? Unfortunately, it seems he can.

As demonstrated in La Locker Room Aux Folles, Rupert remains as insufferable as ever. He is a control freak who takes pleasure in his extensive influence over the many people in his orbit. Mannion seems to revel in manipulation for its own sake, which perhaps gives him a godlike sense of power. But if he is a deity, he is surely one of the underworld.

In episode 9 of Ted Lasso's final season, Rupert is making every effort to further corrupt Nate. Mannion attempts to tempt Nate into betraying Jade, with whom he has a healthy relationship.

The reasons are straightforward. Firstly, Jade remains beyond Rupert's control. Accustomed to women obeying him because of his wealth, he chafes at her defiance, which leaves him seething. Secondly, Jade's personality and respectful demeanour are liberating Nate, a development Rupert cannot tolerate. Thus, he is striving to keep Nate under his thumb through corruption.

Rupert Mannion is a power-hungry tyrant seemingly incapable of self-improvement. It is highly doubtful that he will find redemption at the show's conclusion. Retribution seems more likely. Nonetheless, his malicious character will likely continue to blight the other characters' lives until the series finale.

We have three more episodes to see if that is true. The next one will be available to stream on Apple TV+ on 17 May.