For Juno Temple, there will always be a unique Keeley Jones.

      For all practical purposes, Juno Temple's journey as Keeley Jones in Ted Lasso concluded with the season 3 finale. She bid farewell to the character and shifted her focus to new roles, including the animated adventure Swapped and the dystopian sci-fi comedy Good Luck, Have Fun, Don't Die. However, Jason Sudeikis reopened the Ted Lasso chapter, indicating that the feel-good comedy had more to offer. When the show returns to Apple TV on August 5, viewers should not expect to see the men of AFC Richmond. Instead, the spotlight will be on the Lady Greyhounds, the female team facing significant challenges—an important shift in light of the growing interest in women's sports and the upcoming Women's World Cup. This season will feature exciting new characters played by Tanya Reynolds and Faye Marsay, alongside returning favorites like Keeley, Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham), Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein), and Coach Lasso (Sudeikis).

      Temple candidly expresses her anxiety about stepping back into the Ted Lasso universe, wondering if she could still portray Keeley after nearly two years away. Such nerves are natural. However, those feelings were quickly dismissed when she had a five-hour fitting with costume designer Jacky Levy, which reignited all the joy associated with Keeley Jones. Temple recalls, “We were all reminded of how much fun it is to create Keeley from the toes up to the top of her hat,” noting Keeley’s unique blend of surrealism and classic style as part of her charm.

      Temple hints at an astounding array of fashion this season, including a striking bubblegum-pink Alexander McQueen blazer that Levy found the night before at Selfridges, and a special pair of pajamas designed by a friend. It’s no surprise that Elle Woods remains a significant influence on Keeley, as both are career-driven women who proudly embrace the color pink. Putting together Keeley’s “bonkers” wardrobe serves as a reminder of the character's uniqueness. Temple reflects, “I don’t know if I will ever have an opportunity to inhabit someone like that again,” highlighting the fun of embracing Keeley’s adventurous spirit, whether in an animal-print suit or starting her own PR agency. She believes there’s much to learn from Keeley’s resilience and unyielding optimism. While both Temple and Keeley love pink and the sense of camaraderie, Temple wishes she could embody more of Keeley’s boldness in her everyday life. If Keeley has taught her anything, it’s about self-belief, even when she struggles with it.

      Temple’s friendship with Waddingham, who plays Rebecca, is another delightful aspect of returning to the series. Their characters, Rebecca and Keeley, beautifully illustrate the power of female friendship and mutual support. Temple expresses her admiration, stating, “I love everything about her,” and jokingly wishes she were taller for better eye contact with Waddingham, who has captivating eyes. She lovingly describes Waddingham as a nurturing presence and a powerful collaborator, sharing, “Being in front of that and having that around you and so alive is something that will forever be inspiring for me.”

      Regarding the "will-they, won’t-they" relationship between Keeley and Roy, Temple remains tight-lipped to avoid revealing spoilers, but she shares her excitement: “I’m excited for people to see where it goes and what happens, and I hope people enjoy it as much as we did.”

      As joy on television provides a much-needed escape from the chaotic world, the return of Ted Lasso feels well-timed. The show’s essence—authentic optimism, writing that balances humor with emotional depth, and an underdog story—remains intact. Temple mentions, “People that I’ve spoken to so far say that it feels kind of like a throwback going back to season 1,” considering it a great compliment. Season 4 of Ted Lasso will stream on Apple TV starting August 5. Photographer: Tiffany Brodman Stylist: Raquel Paiva Hairstylist: Christopher Naselli Makeup Artist: Gita Bass Set Design: Lauren Bahr at Walter Schupfer Mgmt Postproduction: Kassie Jackson.