Kola Bokinni Takes the Field as Richmond Team Captain in Ted Lasso

Getting into the groove with Ted Lasso but with Kola Bokinni on board, it’s even easier. The stellar show cast Bokinni as Richmond Team Captain, Isaac McAdoo. The Apple TV+ series is currently in its third season and is the proud winner of both SAG as well as Emmy awards. Kola brings an intensity to the screen that you immediately forget he is just acting. His portrayal of McAdoo has been acclaimed as riveting and eye-catching which is no surprise since football is one of Kola’s passions.

Bokinni stems from the UK and comes with an extensive resume. He can be seen in “Two Pigeons”, “A Hundred Streets”, “Top Boy”, “War Machine”, and “Annihilation”. Excelling in action-packed drama is what Kola does best but there is another side to the star. He dives into detail and tells us how the set of “Ted Lasso” has transformed the former strangers into family forever as well as what really made him keen to the role.

What has it been like having a starring role as Richmond Team Captain Isaac McAdoo on Apple TV+ hit series, Ted Lasso?
Kind of surreal! You go into acting because you love it, but you never know where you will end up. Kind of the reason why it appealed to me. I never could have imagined a combination of my two favorite things, football, and acting, to come my way and for that show to garner the success that Ted Lasso has gained.

As an actor, what initially drew you to the show?
Speaking only as an actor and not a sportsman, I could say it was the writing in the pilot that spoke to me. From day one, I knew this show wouldn’t be a generic ‘dumb footballer’ story. Not to say I knew in any way that the show would be this successful because that would be a lie, but I had a feeling that I should be a part of this, so I’m glad I trusted my instincts.

What type of energy has been created on set? Have you found a new family in actors Jason Sudeikis and Juno Temple? Yes, Jason gives all the wisdom and advice of a father figure and Juno is like a sweet darling sister that gives you a hug when you need it the most. Everyone has one or more things I love about them. We are family. A crazy, messy, silly, and dysfunctional family that I’m happy to be a part of.

Do you feel a personal connection to your character on “Ted Lasso?”
In more ways than you can imagine. Isaac and I share a deep bond because in some ways we are alike. I don’t think I react to situations the same way that Isaac would, but I know we have the same interests and the same goal to do good or at the very least be better than yesterday.

How would you like to see your character evolve in future seasons?
My character has had one of the biggest turnarounds from an immature bully to a charismatic team leader, so when I speak of further evolution, I’d like for people to see a softer side to Isaac. Just because you are strong and could easily intimidate, doesn’t mean that you are that type of person. I think there is so much more to Isaac that lies beneath. He is very complex.

With the 3rd season having premiered on March 15th, viewers have been biting their nails in anticipation of every episode. What can they expect to see in season 3?
Longer episodes! There’s so much to tell and I cannot wait for everyone to see it. We worked extremely hard this season. Whether it was in the studio or on the pitch, everyone was on their A game. Expect more laughs, more drama, and more AFC Richmond pulling at your heart strings.


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