Ted Lasso Season 3: 5 Reasons Nate's Redemption Arc Isn't Working So Far

With only a few episodes left until the end of the third and final season of Ted Lasso, we have seen its characters come a long way in changing their approach to work and life in general.

So far, the story of Nathan Shelley remains unfinished, as the character moved to West Ham and took the path of villainy. Now the writers are trying to give him a redemption arc, but some fans argue that isn't working the way it should. Here are their arguments listed.

5. It's happening too quickly

The moments where Nate realizes his wrongdoing are inconsistent. First, he reflected on his actions in the Season 2 finale, and then in the following episodes, it's like the writers forgot he existed.

In Season 3 Episode 7, we see Nate trying to make amends again, but this has nothing to do with AFC Richmond anymore. As a result, his redemption arc feels jagged and coming out of nowhere.

4. Rupert still has a hold on him

Nate is still dancing to the tune of Rupert, and though the West Ham coach is beginning to realize Rupert's dislike for him, he has never disobeyed the club owner. According to fans, that's why his redemption seems less than motivated.

3. He is still self-centered

Nate has it all now — an expensive car, money, a good job, and even a dream girl (the Greek restaurant host, Jade). Even if Rupert suddenly starts manipulating him again, for instance, by mocking Jade and saying that she doesn't fit Nate's status, and the latter stands up for her, that won't redeem Nate in any way. It will only flatter his ego.

2. The relationship with Jade doesn't excuse his treatment of AFC Richmond

After going on a date with Jade, Nate realizes he doesn't need much to feel content as long as he is surrounded by people he appreciates. This proves that the character has begun to mend his ways, but his realization still has nothing to do with AFC Richmond.

Although Ted has tried to reconcile with Nate since the beginning of Season 3, it's unlikely that the other club members will forgive him just as easily.

1. He has to fall from grace even further

The biggest issue is that Nate's full redemption takes more than shaking hands with his former colleagues, as he has to acknowledge his transgressions first. Fans believe he must fall from grace even further to experience true disdain and remorse for his action before he can be forgiven by AFC Richmond.

Unfortunately, it doesn't look like the creators will have enough time to develop Nate's arc in the remaining episodes, given the large number of characters and all the storylines that need to be completed. But we will see!

The next episode of Ted Lasso will arrive on Apple TV+ on May 3, 2023.