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Ted Lasso: Who Did the Actor Behind Sam's Dad Play in Game of Thrones?

Ted Lasso: Who Did the Actor Behind Sam's Dad Play in Game of Thrones?
Image credit: Apple TV+, HBO

This is where you saw the actor playing Ted Lasso’s Ola Obisanya.

Ted Lasso's latest episode delivered everything fans have come to expect from the beloved show: engaging storylines, beautiful character development, and a palpable sense of love, support, and camaraderie.

One arc that had viewers deeply invested was the hate crime against Sam Obisanya, whose restaurant, Ola's, was vandalised by bigoted supporters of an anti-immigrant politician. Fortunately, just as Sam was on the verge of breaking down, his father came to his aid.

The storyline concluded with a heartwarming scene of the Greyhounds helping to clean the restaurant and Mr. Obisanya cooking dinner for them while dancing in the kitchen. Fans appreciated how the episode showcased Sam's worldview and its origins. For many, Ola Obisanya and his positive vibes became the episode's highlight.

While the actor who plays Mr. Obisanya may look familiar, some viewers struggled to remember the roles they might have seen him in. Fortunately, we're here to tell you all about this brilliant actor.

Ted Lasso: Who Did the Actor Behind Sam's Dad Play in Game of Thrones? - image 1

His name is Nonso Anozie, and he boasts impressive filmography. With roles in such hit projects as Cinderella (2015), Conan the Barbarian (2011), Happy-Go-Lucky (2008), and The Last Legion (2007), Anozie demonstrates remarkable range as an actor.

For television fans, Nonso Anozie's face should be recognisable from his roles in popular shows. For instance, he portrayed Xaro Xhoan Daxos in Game of Thrones. Daxos was a wealthy merchant from Qarth whom Daenerys Targaryen encountered in season 2.

He initially presented himself as her ally and suitor but later revealed himself as an imposter who betrayed Daenerys, resulting in the deaths of the Thirteen and the infamous scenes in the House of the Undying. Daenerys then punished Xaro by leaving him to die in his own vault.

Other notable television roles that have earned Nonso Anozie a significant following include Abraham Kenyatta on CBS's Zoo and Tommy Jepperd on Netflix's Sweet Tooth. The latter show's second season premiers on 27 April and fans are looking forward to seeing Anozie reprise the role.

Ted Lasso Season 3 Episode 8 will be released on Apple TV+ on 3 May 2023.