Hannah Waddingham shares emotional story behind 'Ted Lasso' success

Hannah Waddingham has opened up about how landing her role in Ted Lasso completely changed her life, both on screen and at home with her daughter.

The 51-year-old actress, who plays AFC Richmond owner Rebecca Welton in the hit comedy, said the role finally allowed people to see her beyond her appearance and gave her the stability she needed as a single mum.

Speaking to Women’s Health UK, Hannah admitted the show marked a huge turning point in her career after years of feeling overlooked in the industry.

She explained: “It was a turning point in terms of being seen for the first time as not just a tall, bigger woman, but someone who has the same insecurities and vulnerabilities as anyone.”

But away from the spotlight, the Game of Thrones actress said the success of the show also meant she could properly support her 12-year-old daughter Kitty, whom she shares with ex-partner Gianluca Cugnetto.

Hannah revealed becoming a single mother when Kitty was just two could easily have knocked her confidence, but instead it pushed her to fight harder for her future.

She said: “I wasn’t going to sit in the corner feeling sorry for myself. I knew I had so much more to give in my career.”

She also called raising her daughter her “greatest achievement”, saying people often underestimate the pressures of being the sole provider.

Meanwhile, fans of Ted Lasso can look forward to the fourth season later this year, which will focus heavily on AFC Richmond’s women’s team.

Hannah praised the younger actresses joining the cast and said she hopes viewers embrace the new chapter just as warmly as the first three seasons.

“She said the new cast walked in and absolutely owned it.”

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