Thanks to Ted Lasso season 4’s new episode, we now know the answer to one of the biggest questions surrounding the new season. And that question was: Where is Jamie Tartt? The fan-favorite character played by Phil Dunster has been noticeably absent, though we knew beforehand that he is one of Ted Lasso’s characters who won’t return this season. But that was the real-world explanation. We now have the in-universe explanation.
Ted Lasso season 4 episode 2 gives the answer. We will miss the once-arrogant and delightfully hateable Greyhound hotshot, for he and his adversary-turned-mentor Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein) made one of the show’s best duos. A pity he could not be there to help Ted coach the new Richmond women’s team. But then, his next career move makes perfect sense for a freakishly talented sportsman like him.
Ted Finally Addresses Jamie Tartt’s Absence in Season 4
The show deals with Jamie’s absence (and whereabouts) during a press conference involving Ted (Jason Sudeikis). Ted is asked about his thoughts about Jamie leaving Richmond to play for FC Barcelona, and Ted says it’s never easy saying goodbye to a player, and Jamie is going to do “bueno”.
It is a brief, almost throwaway exchange about the departure of one of the show’s most compelling characters. And yet, this ironically makes it all the more powerful. Jamie does not need a grand scene to bid adieu to Richmond. He began his journey as a selfish, cocky player who wanted all the fame and glory for himself. But he grew as time passed and is now aware of what he can achieve by being on the team, instead of constantly trying to prove how he is better than everyone else.
But the answer was also present in the premiere episode of Ted Lasso season 4; only we did not recognize it. In the scene where Ted looks fondly and longingly at the Richmond memorabilia, there is an article by Trent Crimm titled “Gracias, Jamie Tartt”.
The show plants the answer rather than halting its storytelling to explain everything. It also makes it feel like Jamie’s absence is now part of Richmond’s ongoing history. Also, we may not have seen the last of Jamie, despite what you just read.
Why Phil Dunster’s Set Sighting Sparked Return Rumors
Phil Dunster as Jamie Tartt in the show | Credits: Apple TV
Jamie Tartt may not be a Greyhound anymore (for now; we don’t know what the future holds), but that doesn’t mean he cannot pop up in season 4 in a cameo or a brief appearance. He was spotted on the show’s set in a BTS video from September 2025 (via @tedlassonews on X, which credits lucasdsalves_/Instagram for the video).
We must add that he explained his presence on the set while speaking to Today by saying his wife, Eleanor Heydon, directed an episode, something he is “incredibly excited about.” This may be a genuine answer, or just a ruse.
So, for now, the Barcelona storyline provides a clear explanation for Jamie’s absence while allowing the show to move its story in a new direction.
You can read our FandomWire review of Ted Lasso season 4 to find out whether the new season lives up to the legacy of its predecessors.
Do you think Phil Dunster will still make an appearance in season 4? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
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